A service focussing on bridging the gap between hospital based specialists and doctors in the community has proven to be a big success.The teledermatology service links specialist dermatologists with patients and doctors in 40 GP practices throughout Cardiff
It provides doctors with much faster access to specialist dermatology advice, helping to develop doctors’ experience and skills, and also cutting down waiting times for patients and referrals to hospitals
Andrew Morris, Consultant Dermatologist at the University Hospital of Wales, said the scheme had been a big success.
He said: “The service provides great benefits for patients and GP’s by bringing hospital based specialists and doctors in the community together.
“Last year the service saved 700 out-patient appointments as GPs were able to continue care in the community with advice from dermatologists.
“That in turn means that those who do need to see a specialist can do so much quicker.”
Dr Morris explained that most GPs only receive one week of dermatology experience during medical school, yet between 15 - 20% of all GP visits are made by patients with skin conditions.
The teledermatology service gives GPs quick access to advice, which could take weeks or months through a traditional referral, by making use of modern technology. GPs are provided with digital cameras and can send pictures to their specialist colleagues who are able to advise on the best course of action.
This helps to build up GPs knowledge and skills, further improving patient care.
Paul Crompton, Head of Service for the Media Resources Centre
at University Hospital of Wales, which helped set up the service, said feedback from the project had been positive from medical staff and patients.
at University Hospital of Wales, which helped set up the service, said feedback from the project had been positive from medical staff and patients.
He said : “The success of this project shows that relatively simple, everyday technology, such as an inexpensive digital camera and email, combined with willingness to work together, can be used effectively to bridge the gap between General Practitioner and hospital based specialist, by sharing expertise, educating GPs, and helping to manage the right patient, in the right place, at the right time.”
