Suspension of community dermatology locally commissioned services in East Sussex
Following an independent report by the British Association of Dermatology concerning potential harm to patients under the care of dermatology services based in some general practices in East Sussex, NHS Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board has taken the decision to suspend the delivery of community dermatology services in general practice settings until further notice.
A very small number of patients who have been previously treated for dermatological issues by practices and may have been subject to harm will be contacted directly to outline what the next steps are.
Patients who were due to receive dermatology care provided by the community dermatology locally commissioned service (LCS) providers in East Sussex will be referred to alternative providers and informed accordingly.
It is important to note that all other services provided by general practices in East Sussex will continue as normal, and we have 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.
LCSs are health services provided by GP practices in addition to their usual GP service.
They are set up according to the needs of the local community and commissioned by Integrated Care Boards.