GPs use new app to speed up skin cancer treatment

Doctors in Cheshire and Merseyside are the first in the country to capture images of lesions and moles through the use of smartphone technology, and make referrals through an app.

 

Around 230 practices are using the technology, which aims to help reduce the NHS waiting list backlog.

 

A smartphone-compatible skin imaging device, known as a dermatoscope, is connected to the Cinapsis SmartReferrals app, whereby images of moles and other skin lesions are captured in a data-compliant manner and which can be attached to referrals or advice and guidance requests.

 

A secondary-care specialist is then able to review the case and advise on the next steps for the patient with the information updated on their medical record.

 

According to Cinapsis, around 7,000 unnecessary referrals were being made each year at a cost of over £1m.  A two-year trial of the technology found that 49 per cent of cases submitted were successfully managed with guidance and advice alone.

 

GP Dr Stephanie Gallard, primary care lead for elective dermatology at Cheshire and Merseyside Health and Care Partnership, said the new technology meant her patients received “the right care, first time around”, adding that she was now able to treat patients “more effectively” and that the referral process was “now faster and more accurate”.

 

Dr Richard Azurdia, consultant dermatologist at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said the technology had helped save time, which he “can put towards helping patients and reducing care backlogs.”

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

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