Supporting faster diagnosis in dermatology through AI
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Skin Analytics AI dermatology system
In February 2026, the Cheshire and Merseyside Dermatology Alliance saw a significant step forward in NHS Faster Diagnosis Standard performance across the region.
The latest data showed that 86% of patients urgently referred with suspected cancer received a diagnosis or had cancer ruled out within 28 days – well above the national standard of 80% and the highest level recorded since March 2024.
The introduction of a cutting-edge AI-powered dermatology system in partnership with Skin Analytics has played an important supporting role, helping to accelerate clinical decision-making, reduce unnecessary face-to-face appointments, and stabilise urgent care capacity.
The technology can help detect cancerous, pre-cancerous and common harmless skin conditions through photographic images, helping clinicians assess skin images more quickly and accurately.
In April 2026, Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust became the latest trust in Cheshire and Merseyside to go live with the AI dermatology pathway, bringing the total to five out of six acute trusts in the region now adopting this innovative model.