Reason for Nomination:
I am delighted to nominate this Team for the Digital Champion Award in recognition of their outstanding implementation of the Teledermatology (Telederm) pathway. This innovative digital solution enables clinical images to be captured at the Community Diagnostic Centre and reviewed virtually by specialists at the Clinical Assessment Service (CAS). This transformation has significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of dermatology referrals. Key Achievements: Improved Access and Efficiency: The number of new patients seen through the Teledermatology CAS pathway rose from just 40 in January to 384 in April, demonstrating rapid adoption and scalability. Similarly, photography-based outpatient encounters increased tenfold over the same period. Enhanced Patient Experience: The discharge rate from the triage pathway improved steadily—from 26% in January to 44% by mid-May—meaning more patients are receiving timely reassurance without the need for multiple appointments. Previously, patients might have waited weeks and attended several clinics before being told they did not have skin cancer. These achievements reflect the Dermatology Team’s dedication to digital innovation, patient-centred care, and continuous improvement.
How has the nominee positively impacted you, the team, the organisation or the health service?
The Team’s implementation of the Teledermatology pathway has had a profoundly positive impact across multiple levels of the health service. For patients, it has meant faster access to specialist opinions, reduced anxiety through quicker reassurance, and fewer unnecessary hospital visits. This is especially significant for those being assessed for potential skin cancer, where timely diagnosis is critical. For our team, the digital pathway has streamlined workflows, reduced administrative burden, and fostered a more collaborative, efficient working environment. Clinicians can now review cases remotely, enabling more flexible and responsive care delivery. At an organisational level, the initiative has improved service capacity and resource utilisation. By enabling earlier discharges and reducing face-to-face appointments, the pathway has helped alleviate pressure on outpatient clinics and improved overall system flow. More broadly, this innovation supports the NHS’s digital transformation goals—demonstrating how technology can enhance patient care, improve outcomes, and build a more sustainable health service.
Additional Comments/Testimonials:
Excellent service - now looking for what's next for Dermatology.
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CHuFT Awards 2026