Teledermatology refers to the use of static digital images to triage, diagnose, monitor or assess skin conditions without the patient being physically present.

The use of images with advice and guidance referrals is already well established in Wessex and now the use of teledermatology for skin fast track referrals is available in some areas of HIOW, with plans to roll it out across remaining trusts. This allows for rapid virtual triage of referred patients, with all further communication provided directly to the patient from the dermatology department, with the patient’s GP being copied in. This will streamline and speedup the pathway, benefitting both patients and GPs.

Teledermatology is part of the PCN DES requirements for 2023/24. Requiring PCNs work with their Core Network Practices to adopt and embed where available and appropriate, the use of teledermatology to support skin cancer referrals.

Teledermatology support and guidance

We are supporting the use of teledermatology for urgent suspected cancer referrals via our 2023/24 Local Improvement Scheme.

We have collated some resources below that give guidance and support on taking, uploading and sending teledermatology images along with the latest guidance and good practice guides.

Please get in touch for any further support, queries or suggestions wessexcanceralliance@wca.uhs.nhs.uk

Guide to Teledermatology for fast track referrals in Hampshire: