A healthcare service in Croydon has been recognised for its technology inspired care at the Health Service Journal Awards.

Communitas Clinics in Thornton Heath was presented with the 'Improving Care with Technology' award for their teledermoscopy service delivered in Surrey Downs.

The team sends clinical information and images to the dermatology specialists within the service and they also receive diagnosis and management plans.

This quick access to specialist opinions has resulted in over 65 per cent of patients avoiding going to secondary care.

Christian Lyons, managing director of the service, commented: “Our core team worked really hard to develop this service model.

"We’re dedicated to reducing the costs for local commissioners without compromising on care, ensuring patients have a stunningly good service.

"This has been a hugely successful collaborative effort, working with great commissioners who have been instrumental in making sure this service is delivered exceedingly well.”

The judges remarked that they were impressed with how Communitas Clinics had made cost savings; they also said the team had demonstrated significant benefits to patients.