Dermatology services suspended over patient 'harm' fears

Community dermatology services in East Sussex have been suspended until further notice amid concerns over potential harm to a very small number of patients, it has been confirmed.

NHS Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board (ICB) announced the decision in response to an independent report regarding dermatology services based in some general practices in the county.

Patients who may have been subject to harm after being previously treated for dermatological issues by practices will be contacted directly by the NHS, which will outline next steps.

Those due to receive dermatology care from locally commissioned service (LCS) providers in East Sussex will be referred to alternative providers.

Stressing that all other services provided by general practices in the county will continue as normal, the ICB said there were no concerns about the care provided more widely.

Other specialist dermatology services such as those based in hospitals are unaffected and will continue as normal, it added.

LCS providers, health services provided in addition to a standard GP service, are commissioned by ICBs.

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