How participation works
You begin with a calibration phase focused on safety, workflow, and expectations. You work alongside supervisors in structured spot clinics. As patterns become familiar, independence increases. Support remains available throughout, and if you are unsure, referral remains the correct and supported decision.
The DermCAP model supports calibration, supervised learning, gradual progression, and ongoing access to advice within routine clinical practice.
Watch how the supervised apprenticeship model works in real clinical environments.
Access to the programme
DermCAP is usually commissioned at system level. Clinicians or practices can register interest and we will advise on local options. Participation takes place within agreed governance arrangements.
What DermCAP is — and what it isn’t
What it is:
- A structured 13-month supported model
- Embedded in real general practice
- Supervised and safety-focused
- Designed to improve referral quality at first contact
What it isn’t:
- A one-off dermoscopy course
- A teledermatology service
- Pressure to manage risk beyond your comfort
- Confidence without support
What you will actually be asked to do
Participation is practical and clearly defined.
The programme begins with a one-month calibration phase.
During this month you will:
- Run 2 supervised spot clinics of around 10 patients each
- Work within clear safety and escalation guidance
- Use simple reflection logs to review your decisions
- Record agreed minimum data for feedback and audit
- Take dermoscopy images to agreed standards
- Access case discussion and support via secure NHS platforms (e.g. Pando)
- Complete short focused video modules (approximately 60 brief videos,
totalling around 2 hours) covering core dermoscopy patterns and safe thresholds - Receive direct feedback on your referral decisions
These clinics take place in agreed protected sessions using your own patient population.
The aim is not speed — it is to establish safe habits, clear thresholds, and confidence in using dermoscopy appropriately.
At the end of the calibration month, a structured review takes place. This is a formal STOP / GO point.
To progress to the 12-month model, you must demonstrate:
- Safe use of escalation and referral
- Sound clinical decision-making
- Engagement with supervision and reflection
- Basic documentation standards
If those standards are not met, the programme does not continue. Patient safety comes first
If calibration is successful, you move into a supported 12-month phase.
Across the year you will typically see around 200+ lesions within supported clinics and routine practice.
This phase includes:
- Ongoing supported lesion assessment
- Review of selected cases
- Feedback on referral patterns
- Clear guidance on when to escalate
- Continued access to advice if you are unsure
- Short reinforcement learning introduced over time
Independence grows gradually. If you are unsure, referral is always supported.
DermCAP improves decision-making without increasing clinical risk. You remain fully responsible for your patients, escalation routes are clear at every stage, supervision and advice are available when needed, and no part of the programme replaces your clinical judgement.
DermCAP is delivered through protected, funded clinical time throughout the programme. Clinicians run regular spot clinics within scheduled sessions, supported by supervision and structured feedback.
Learning is introduced in short, manageable intervals over time, allowing capability to build safely without adding significant burden to day-to-day practice.
Next Steps
If this approach fits how you want to practise, you can register your interest or request more information