Dermicus advances AI innovation in NHS Scotland skin cancer pathway

15 February 2026

Dermicus has successfully completed Phase 2 of the NHS Scotland AI Skin Cancer Innovation Challenge, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can support safer and more efficient triage within the skin cancer pathway.

As part of the programme, Dermicus explored the use of artificial intelligence in the post-referral vetting stage—an important step where incoming referrals are assessed and prioritised for specialist review. The project focused on whether AI could safely support clinical prioritisation, improve pathway efficiency, and function within the practical and regulatory constraints of NHS systems.

“From my involvement in the project, the Dermicus AI Engine offers a promising way to streamline dermatology referrals. By reliably flagging higher‑risk lesions and reducing unnecessary reviews of benign cases, it has the potential to free up specialist capacity and help patients access timely care.”  Colin Morton, Honorary Professor of Dermatology, Lead Consultant Dermatologist, NHS Forth Valley

During Phase 2, the Dermicus AI model was further refined and evaluated using NHS-provided, AI-ready datasets within a secure Trusted Research Environment. The results demonstrated that AI can support post-referral triage by identifying clearly benign lesions suitable for early dismissal, while ensuring that higher-risk cases are prioritised for faster clinical assessment.

Performance was assessed across multiple dimensions, including:

  • Technical accuracy

  • Reliability of predicted risk

  • Consistency across demographic groups

  • Operational performance under simulated real-world conditions

In parallel with technical evaluation, Dermicus developed a prototype AI solution designed to integrate into existing clinical workflows. The prototype accounted for real-world variability in referral data and was tested through simulated clinical use.

Feedback from dermatologists indicated strong alignment with clinical needs. Importantly, the solution is positioned to support post-referral vetting—not replace clinical diagnosis, ensuring that clinicians remain central to decision-making.

Operational testing also confirmed that the solution can deliver results within clinically relevant timeframes, making it suitable for integration into routine care pathways.

The project also identified key considerations for broader adoption, including:

  • Data completeness and quality

  • Integration with existing NHS systems

  • Regulatory and compliance requirements

  • The need for prospective real-world clinical evaluation

Overall, the Phase 2 work demonstrates how an AI-enabled triage capability can:

  • Reduce unnecessary specialist reviews

  • Support clinical decision-making

  • Help prioritise patients based on risk

  • Optimise the use of limited specialist capacity

This work provides a strong foundation for future clinical evaluation and potential deployment within NHS Scotland. By supporting earlier and more accurate prioritisation, Dermicus aims to contribute to more efficient skin cancer pathways and improved patient outcomes.

“This project demonstrates how AI can be applied responsibly within the clinical workflow to support—not replace—clinical decision-making. By enabling earlier and more accurate prioritisation, we can help ensure that patients who need urgent care are seen faster, while reducing unnecessary workload for specialists.” – Daniel Eliasson