
Teledermatology
Teledermatology
Teledermatology uses cutting-edge technology to deliver specialist dermatological care to patients more efficiently and effectively. Through our dedicated teledermoscopy hubs, we provide high-quality assessments, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment without compromising on accuracy.
What is Teledermatology?
Teledermatology is a modern approach to dermatological care that uses advanced imaging technology and secure digital systems to evaluate skin conditions remotely. At our teledermoscopy hubs, trained healthcare assistants use specialised dermatoscopes to capture high-quality images of your skin condition. These images are securely transferred to your medical records and reviewed by a consultant dermatologist.
This innovative system allows consultants to triage patients without requiring face-to-face appointments. Up to 40% of cases can be discharged remotely, reducing waiting times and enabling urgent cases to receive care more quickly. The quality of the images ensures no reduction in diagnostic accuracy, as if the consultant were in the room.
What Are the Benefits of This Service?
- Reduced Waiting Times: Patients can receive diagnoses and treatment plans faster, allowing urgent cases to be prioritised.
- Efficient Care Delivery: Up to 40% of cases can be safely discharged without the need for an in-person appointment.
- Enhanced Accessibility: A geographically dispersed team of dermatologists ensures patients in wider areas receive expert care.
- No Compromise on Quality: Dermatoscopic images are captured to the highest standard, providing the same diagnostic accuracy as face-to-face consultations.
How Do I Get a Teledermoscopy Assessment?
Our teledermoscopy service operates on a referral basis. If your GP believes you would benefit from a dermatological assessment, they will refer you to our service. Once referred, eligible patients will be invited to attend an appointment at one of our hubs, where high-quality dermatoscopic images will be taken.
What Happens After the Pictures Have Been Taken?
Once your images have been captured, they will be securely added to your medical records. A consultant dermatologist will review these images remotely and decide on the most appropriate next steps for your care. These may include:
- Discharge Back to Primary Care: For conditions that are benign or can be managed effectively by your GP.
- Diagnosis and Prescription for Treatment: If suitable, the consultant will provide a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan, including any necessary prescriptions.
- Booked in for a Face-to-Face Appointment: If your condition requires further evaluation or treatment in person.
- Booked in for Surgery: If surgical intervention is required, arrangements will be made.
- Booked in for a Biopsy: If additional diagnostic information is needed, a biopsy will be scheduled.
- Referral to Another Hospital or Healthcare Provider: For conditions that require specialised care not available within our service.
This approach ensures you receive the most appropriate and timely care for your condition.
Confidentiality and Patient Privacy
We are committed to protecting your personal information. All data collected by our service is handled in strict compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018, and all other relevant information governance legislation.
All patient data is stored securely and used only for the purposes of your direct care. If you have any concerns about how your data is used within the service, please contact us on 01903 703 281.
For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.