The Skin Analytics DERM system scans photographs of skin lumps, sores, or abnormal growths for 11 of the most common malignant, pre-malignant and benign skin conditions.

If it suspects a lesion is potentially cancerous it will recommend referring the patient to a consultant dermatologist on an urgent suspected cancer pathway for a more detailed examination.

Otherwise, after a second read by a consultant dermatologist, the AI tool will either advise that patient is referred to their GP to receive treatment for a more minor condition, or they will be informed it is nothing to be concerned about.

Bronwen Griffiths, Senior Partnership Manager at Skin Analytics, said: "DERM can identify a range of different conditions including melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease, actinic keratosis, and atypical naevus.'

The trials were extended in March this year to include GP surgeries in Harwich. They have already been used to analyse 1,000 local patients.

The technology is now being rolled out across practices in Colchester as part of a pilot scheme that will run until March 2025.

The pilot has been funded by Small Business Research Initiative Healthcare, which accelerates innovative technologies in the NHS and the wider health and social care system, tackling unmet health and care needs.

Dr Alice Parr, Cancer Lead for the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, said: ‘This AI tool is a game changer. People who are worried about a skin lesion or mole can obtain an appointment to have it photographed within two to four days.

'The use of DERM will help manage demand and significantly reduce the need for patients to attend hospital.'

Laura Cook, chief operating officer at GPPC, added: 'The feedback we have received from both patients and practices about the service has been excellent and we hope we can continue to be a part of this great collaboration.'

Skin cancer is the second most common cause of cancer referrals in England, with 509,668 in 2019/20. Referrals have almost doubled since 2015.

Locally, the East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust currently receives more than 1,000 skin referrals each month.