What is this service?

The Bristol Community Health Dermatology Service is comprised of specialist dermatology nurses and GPs with a specialist interest in dermatology who offer diagnosis, treatment and education on long-term skin conditions to the whole Bristol area. The service is based in four clinics.

There are a variety of skin conditions that you may need support with. If you are looking for online information about skin conditions, visit the Psoriasis Association, the National Eczema Society, the British Association of Dermatologists, or the Primary Care Dermatology Society.

What does this service offer?

Our service can provide a diagnosis of a skin condition, as well as support, education and treatment planning for chronic skin diseases.

There are two GPs with a special interest in dermatology within the service who are able to diagnose skin conditions, such as rashes and lesions, and perform some forms of skin surgery. We can treat some lesions and prescribe treatment for chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

We also have a small team of trained dermatology nurses who run clinics for patients with diagnosed skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Within these clinics our nurses can help plan care and treatment regimes and provide emotional support to patients.

Our nursing team can visit housebound patients at home to support with their treatment. We can also arrange joint visits involving GP practice nurses and community nurses.

What do patients say about this service?

“My mum has had two appointments with Lesley Hunter at William Budd. Both times she was excellent. She was able to put our minds at rest! Thanks you so much”

Wish that I could have been referred to your very caring nurse sooner by my GP.

“Service was first class - I don’t think it could improve. I would particularly like to mention Dr. Bench, dermatologist Charlotte Patey- healthcare assistant who could not have been more patient, interested and helpful.”

Who is the service for?

Our service is available to patients of any age.

Please note, we are unable to accept referrals for patients who meet any of the criteria below. These patients should instead be referred to hospital care:

• patients with acne and taking Roaccutane medication.
• patients with a suspected skin cancer such as Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) on the face or neck or Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and malignant melanoma anywhere on the body – these should be referred by GPs via the ‘2 week wait’.

How can I access this service?

We can only accept referrals from health care professional including GPs, health visitors, community nurses, practice nurses and podiatrists.

You cannot refer yourself to the Dermatology Service.

Are you a clinician that wants to refer to this service?

If you are a clinician or GP and wish to refer to this service, please see referral forms on the left hand side. Referrals can be made using the NHS Choose and Book system or by faxing the referral form to 0117 963 8707.