HIQA undertaking HTA of teledermatolgy for triaging primary care referrals

HIQA is conducting a health technology assessment (HTA) of teledermatology for triaging primary care referrals, the Medical Independent has learned.

The Authority was requested by the HSE to undertake a HTA to establish the clinical benefits and economic impact of teledermatology for adult and paediatric patients.

HIQA’s board approved the scope and terms of reference in October 2024. The assessment, which will include a public consultation process, is due to be completed by the end of 2025.

“The HSE’s model of care for dermatology recognises that technology initiatives, including teledermatology, have the potential to improve access to care,” said HIQA’s spokesperson.

“Accordingly, the HSE requested HIQA to undertake a HTA to establish the clinical effectiveness and economic implications of using teledermatology for adult and paediatric patients referred by a GP to a consultant dermatologist.”

The HSE national model of care for dermatology highlighted the benefits
of teledermatology.

According to the document, a group from Cork University Hospital and South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital demonstrated positive results in a project on the use of electronic photo triage for infantile haemangiomas.

Using a dedicated HSE email address, GPs were able to email anonymised photographs of infantile haemangiomas for review by a paediatric dermatologist within five working days. In the first year of the project, 80 images were photo triaged, indicating “quick adoption” by Irish GPs. “There was significant uptake on the Western and Southern seaboard, areas that are geographically disadvantaged in terms of access to paediatric dermatology services,” outlined the document.

The use of photography as a triage tool offered the potential to shorten waiting lists and improve healthcare access and delivery, while identifying and fast-tracking patients with suspicious skin lesions. “The process will also allow patients with evidently benign lesions to be discharged, representing cost efficiencies for dermatology departments.”