WPA adds new Fast Track Skin Support Pathway in response to extended NHS dermatology waits
WPA has expanded its range of treatment pathways with the launch of a new Skin Support Pathway, which provides its health insurance customers with online access to expert dermatology care without the need for a GP referral.
Developed in partnership with MySkinDoctor, the new Fast Track Skin Support Pathway will give WPA customers direct access to a consultant dermatologist who will deliver expert diagnosis and treatment plans within three working days. This new service builds on WPA’s existing digital healthcare offering, which already includes mental health, cancer and musculoskeletal pathways.
Fast Track Skin Support is currently included in WPA’s Flexible Health (Premier and Elite) and Multi Family retail products and will be added to Complete Health in November. In the corporate market, it is included in its Enterprise Flexible Benefits, Precision Corporate Health, Absolute Health and Digital Health products.
A streamlined route to consultant dermatologists
Through the MySkinDoctor app, WPA policyholders will be able to upload images and details of any skin concerns they have, which could range from acne and eczema to mole or lesion changes. A consultant dermatologist will then review the case and provide a diagnosis and tailored treatment plan within three working days. They can also provide an onward referral.
If further investigation is required, WPA will arrange a face-to-face consultation with a dermatologist through its standard claims pre-authorisation process.
The service will be available 24/7 for adults and children under 16, and will also offer private prescriptions where appropriate, at the customer's own expense. Importantly, WPA confirmed that using the service won’t affect policy excesses, annual benefit limits or no-claims discounts, and access is unlimited.
Growing pressures on NHS and private dermatology care
WPA’s decision to add a skin support pathway comes at a time of mountain pressure on dermatology services in both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Lengthy waiting times for skin specialist consultations are common. Earlier this year, NHS England data revealed that nearly half of NHS dermatology patients (43%) faced waits longer than the 18-week standard, while some private patients reportedly wait up to between 6 to 8 weeks for initial appointments, often due to delays with GP referrals.
Chris Steele, founder and editor of myTribe Insurance Experts, said:
“WPA’s new Skin Support Pathway offers its insured customers a streamlined route to consultant dermatologists without needing to visit a GP, which could prove invaluable for reassurance, early diagnosis and peace of mind. Fast and convenient access to specialist care can make a real difference, particularly when it comes to skin conditions that cause anxiety or concern.”
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