An evaluation of Polaroid photographic imaging for cutaneous-lesion referrals to an outpatient clinic: a pilot study.

A pilot study consisted of 65 patient referrals to a Regional Plastic Surgery Department in which the referral letter, accompanied by a high-quality Polaroid photograph, was assessed by four consultants. The diagnosis, degree of urgency of treatment, grade of surgeon (to undertake the operation) and anticipated time for the procedure were recorded. The results were statistically analysed. Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and consistency of the four observers. The majority of malignant skin lesions were detected accurately; those that were missed received urgent attention due to a high degree of suspicion. This study supports the view that 'triage' of referrals using high-quality photographic images in association with an accurate referral letter can offer a significant reduction in pressure on waiting time and inconvenience for patients by avoiding an additional outpatient visit. Advantages to purchasers in terms of cost savings on outpatient visits and travelling reimbursement can result from this initiative.