TWO Isle of Wight GP practices are using a pioneering new app to analyse skin problems.

The app speeds up how quickly a skin problem can be seen by a specialist and give a patient a diagnosis.

Due to the Dermicus app’s quick and accurate service, it is also helping to free up the time of doctors and nurses to see more patients.

Argyll House Surgery, in Ryde, and St Helens Medical Centre, are both using the app.

Through the app, a GP or nurse specialist is able to take high-quality photographs, including greatly-magnified images, of any skin abnormality a patient comes in concerned over.

The app is linked to technology that enables the images to be securely sent to the dermatology service for review.

Specialists at the dermatology service, which is provided by Lighthouse Medical, can then review the images and determine if no further action needs to be taken, if they need a biopsy, come in for a face-to-face appointment, or referral to another service.

Dr Christine Seiger, GP at Argyll House Surgery, said: “The biggest benefit is both the speed in which we can send images across to specialists, and also how easy it is to use.

“Not only do patients get access to a specialist reviewing their case quicker, it can also help with the earlier detection of cancer and speed up the process for receiving treatment.”

Isle of Wight NHS Trust commissions Lighthouse Medical to provide the dermatology service on the Island.

Amy Poyner, clinical director of Lighthouse Medical, said: “The Island has a high rate of melanoma and so it’s crucial we embrace new and innovative technology to help serve our patients.

“Our team is very excited to be working with GPs to try this out and we feel the outcomes help residents and primary care.

“Reduction in unnecessary visits and time off work, together with creating a service that will be able to secure future dermatology access for Island residents, is a huge step forward.”