Teledermatology: Transforming Skin Cancer Care

Skin cancer is the country's highest volume cancer type by referral. SWAG is leading the way in introducing remote clinical assessment for suspected skin cancer across our four ICBs - Gloucestershire, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG), Bath, Swindon and Wiltshire (BSW), and Somerset. By supporting and funding community image-taking hubs and preparing local NHS Trusts for a new model of care, we’re helping to manage rising referral volumes and improve patient outcomes.

Why Teledermatology?

Teledermatology offers a smarter, more efficient way to manage skin cancer referrals by:

  • Reducing unnecessary outpatient appointments
  • Managing increasing referral volumes
  • Freeing up clinical capacity
  • Improving patient experience with local hubs and fewer hospital visits

Our Regional Work

Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire 

  • Community hubs established across all 20 Primary Care Networks
  • Early evaluation shows:
    • Improved image quality
    • 40% discharge rate without outpatient assessment
    • Direct access to ‘see and treat’ clinics for minor procedures

Somerset 

  • Pilot hubs launching this Autumn
  • Enhancing existing Advice & Guidance services
  • Imaging hubs to be set up and supported by trained medical illustrators

Bath & NE Somerset & Wiltshire

  • Community hub network supporting Bath and Salisbury services
  • Bath service launching August, covering 14 practices
  • Salisbury service launching September
  • Phase 2 in Autumn to expand access, especially in rural areas
  • Acute-led imaging hub already live in Swindon since May

Gloucestershire 

  • Remote teledermatology clinics launched earlier this year
  • Imaging hubs at Cheltenham and Gloucester Trust sites
  • Led by healthcare assistants with training from medical photographers

All four systems will be evaluated using an economic model developed with York University to ensure a sustainable, scalable approach to teledermatology.

Stay tuned for updates as services evolve.

Patient Information

Information to share with your patients around teledermatology and what to expect:

  • You may be invited to attend a local imaging hub instead of a hospital appointment.
  • Images will be reviewed by a specialist, and you’ll be contacted with next steps.
  • If treatment is needed, you may be referred directly to a clinic for minor procedures.
  • Ask your GP or practice team if teledermatology is available in your area.

Signposting