A shortage of health care providers, an ageing population, and growing demands for medical services are forcing changes in how health care is delivered. Issues of accessibility and affordability need to be considered. In reality, demand has already surpassed the number of medical personnel, as highlighted by the extraordinarily long wait times for skin cancer checks by dermatologists.

Cognisant of the problems and constantly looking for solutions, Sky Blue Dermatology has collaborated with Dermscreen to embrace digital technology and introduce a new system for skin checks and skin cancer diagnosis. 

This system involves high-resolution digital imaging that captures 95% of the body’s surface area. A trained nurse or medical technician guides patients through this process. A specialist dermatologist analyses the images and provides a diagnostic report and treatment recommendations.

Advantages of this system include ease of access, online booking, expedient report delivery, and high levels of diagnostic accuracy. Dermscreen is suitable for anyone who requires a skin check and for regular screening of higher-risk individuals. Unfortunately, there is no Medicare rebate, but some private insurers provide reimbursement. Hopefully, the importance of new technologies in enabling the efficient provision of important healthcare services for the community, will be recognised by all insurers and reimbursed appropriately.

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