What is Dermatology
Dermatology is the branch of medicine concerned with the structure, functions and appearance of the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes (mouth and genitalia), and the impacts on these of both primary and systemic diseases. It is a specialty with both medical and surgical aspects.
About the Programme
The National Clinical Programme for Dermatology reports to the National Director for Clinical Strategy and Programmes, HSE
The aim of the programme is to support high quality, efficient and evidenced based dermatology services delivered in a timely manner and close to, those who need it.
The National Clinical Lead is Dr. Anne-Marie Tobin, Consultant Dermatologist in AMNCH Tallaght Hospital, the Chair of the Clinical Advisory Group is Dr. Michelle Murphy, Consultant Dermatologist, SIVUH and the Programme Manager is Ms. Kellie Myers, RCPI.
The Clinical Lead and Programme Manager work together to ensure the delivery of the objectives of the programme and the programme manager is responsible for reporting to the HSE and RCPI. The Clinical Advisory Group provides clinical oversight and strategic guidance to the programme. It is an RCPI committee and all dermatology consultants in Ireland are invited to become members.
The working group is tasked with agreeing and facilitating the implementation of the work-streams devised to deliver the objectives of the programme. The working group is chaired by the Clinical Lead. Sub groups may be established to work on specific work-streams; including members with the required expertise in the area of practice. Collaboration with other programmes is encouraged and facilitated where possible.
Programme Objectives
Objectives
Revise and complete care pathways for common dermatological conditions including:
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis
- Urticaria
Support the NCCP in the development of guidelines for management of non-melanoma skin cancer
Support timely access to secondary care (reduction in waiting lists)
Support all dermatology departments to offer:
- phototherapy
- Surgery
- Patch testing
Revise and complete the model of care for dermatology
Support clinical staff education in common dermatological conditions
Development of KPIs for dermatology
Current KPIs
Number of new dermatology outpatients seen per hospital per year
Referral: New Attendance ratio
*Please note that data is collected by the hospitals and reported to the BIU (waiting list data is gathered by the hospitals, reported by the NTPF).
Service improvements/benefits
Access:
- The appointment of over ten dermatologists has increased access to dermatology services with a consequent increase in activity levels. Compared to figures from 2009 there is a 40% increase in new patients, 10% increase in reviews and 20 % increase in the numbers of patients seen.
- The programme is collaborating with the Out-Patient Service Performance Improvement Programme to develop pathways and support sustainable solutions to waiting list for dermatology services.
- The work of revising the model of care for dermatology to incorporate the Hospital Groups and Community Healthcare Organisation is in progress and completion is expected in 2016. The programme supports the development of integrated networks of dermatology care involving colleagues in primary care to ensure that patients receive treatment in the right place at the right time, first time.
Quality:
- The programme will use the data collected in the Dermatology Services Mapping Survey 2015 in order to identify deficits and develop plans to support services in ensuring resources and facilities are optimised to deliver safe, high quality, and cost effective care in the most appropriate setting.
- Completion and development of clinical guidance and pathways for common dermatological conditions will support standardised evidence based care.
- The development of education resource for healthcare staff will support the successful implementation of care pathways and clinical guidance.
- Engagement with the NCCP in development of non-melanoma skin cancer guidance began in 2015 and is continuing into 2016.
Completion of the Model of Care will inform the development of new KPIs for dermatology service in 2016.
Facilitating self-care/self management is a key goal of dermatology health care policy and involves the patients, pharmacists, general practitioners, dermatologists and nursing. The programme will collaborate strategic partners to support public awareness and resources to enable self-management.
