Teledermatology Pathway Delivers Faster Skin Cancer Diagnosis for Local Patients

Patients referred by Primary Care to The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) with a suspicious skin lesion are now receiving quicker assessments and outcomes thanks to the successful rollout of the Teledermatology pathway.

Under the pathway, patients attend either the Community Diagnostic Centre in Telford or the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital just days after referral. Specialist Medical Photographers capture high‑quality clinical images of the lesion, which are then reviewed remotely by the Dermatology team. This enables rapid triage and ensures patients receive timely next‑step decisions.

More than 40% of patients are now safely discharged back to their GP following a Teledermatology review, avoiding unnecessary hospital appointments and easing pressure on dermatology clinics. Patients requiring further investigation are fast‑tracked to face‑to‑face dermatology appointments and any additional tests.

In November 2025, over 98% of patients on the Teledermatology pathway were informed whether or not they had cancer within 28 days of referral, significantly exceeding the national 80% Faster Diagnosis Standard.

Dr Dimple Jain, Clinical Lead for Dermatology at SaTH, said: “The Teledermatology service not only assists with faster diagnosis and early reassurance of patients but also ensures patients are seen in right place by the right team.

“It has reduced the pressure and need for the urgent suspected cancer appointments in the clinical team, which in turn enables patients with non-cancerous dermatology conditions to have earlier and quicker access to specialist service. It is a perfect example of using modern and innovative ways of working to continue to provide faster and efficient patient care.”

Marie-Claire Wigley, Cancer Programme Lead at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin said: “This pathway is helping us diagnose or rule out skin cancer earlier, faster and more effectively than ever before. By combining specialist imaging with rapid clinical review, we are reducing anxiety for patients and ensuring those who need urgent care are seen without delay. It’s a fantastic example of how collaboration across the system can genuinely transform outcomes for our population.”

Patient experience remains highly positive, with Friends and Family Test feedback consistently praising the convenience, speed and reassurance provided by the service.

This innovative pathway has been delivered through strong partnership working between SaTH, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, Primary Care and the West Midlands Cancer Alliance.