Phototherapy

Phototherapy is a special light therapy prescribed to treat some skin disorders and decrease the inflammation they cause. A trained nurse operates a light machine, which shines ultraviolet (UV) light on affected skin.

This treatment is highly effective, safe and painless.

Who Can Benefit from Phototherapy?

Phototherapy benefits many patients with skin conditions such as:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Vitiligo

How Often Does it Take Place?

Effective treatment using phototherapy usually requires 2-3 treatments per week for a few months. Treatments must be separated by intervals of at least 24 hours.

Your healthcare provider will determine how many sessions you need, and all sessions will be scheduled at the beginning of therapy.

Phototherapy treatment sessions can last from seconds to minutes. The length of these treatments will slowly increase over time.

How do I Get a Referral?

• If you are not already an existing patient of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Dermatology clinic, contact your primary care provider to get a referral to discuss treatment options.
• If you are already an established patient, call the clinic to schedule an appointment with your provider to see if this service is an option for your child.

Treatments take place at the Dermatology Clinic on the 3rd floor of the Outpatient Care Center on the main campus of Nationwide Children’s Hospital. This service is not offered at our off-site locations. In special cases, patients may be eligible for home phototherapy units.

This treatment is covered by most major insurance companies, but please call your health insurance provider to determine your specific plan coverage.