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Dermatology quality indicator

Percentage of suspected cancer cases seen within two weeks by a consultant

How is the Trust doing?

First quarter	Second quarter	Third quarter	Fourth quarter
98.5%	97.9%	98.9%	99.0%

Higher percentage indicates better performance.

The Trust is performing well against this indicator with over 97% of patients seen by a consultant within two weeks of referral.

Why is this indicator important?

Skin cancer is increasing in incidence and melanoma is the sixth most common cancer in the UK. Early detection of skin cancers such as melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) significantly improves prognosis and survival. Treatment is also simpler and more effective when skin cancer is detected early.

The Department of Health has set national guidelines stating that patients with a suspected skin cancer should be seen by a specialist within two weeks of referral. This quality indicator enables us to ensure we promptly diagnose and treat suspected skin cancers as soon as possible. The goal is for over 95% of urgent cancer referrals to be seen within two weeks.

How do we measure this indicator?

Percentage of patients referred with a suspected skin cancer seen within two weeks by a Dermatology Consultant. ‘Two week wait’ cancer referrals are seen in a dedicated skin cancer clinic led by Consultants.

Not all types of skin cancer are included within the two week rule. Suspected melanomas and squamous cell carcinomas are included. Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are common but rarely spread and are therefore excluded from the two week rule.

Where does the data come from?

The data for this indicator is compiled from the Trust’s patient administration system called Lorenzo and the Somerset Cancer Database.