Overview
DermBiopsy Solutions delivered a high-volume weekend insourcing service to support an NHS Trust experiencing significant backlog pressures within skin cancer pathways.
The objective was to increase procedural capacity, reduce waiting times, and support compliance with 2-week wait (2WW) targets.
The Challenge
• Increasing number of 2WW skin cancer referrals
• Limited weekday theatre capacity
• Growing backlog of minor operations and biopsies
• Workforce constraints limiting expansion
The Solution
DermBiopsy Solutions deployed a consultant-led insourcing model over a single weekend, utilising existing Trust facilities and infrastructure.
• Two minor operations theatres utilised
• Structured, high-efficiency operating lists
• Consultant-led surgical delivery
Service Delivery
Saturday: 32 cases (08:00–18:00)
Sunday: 24 cases (08:00–16:00)
Total cases delivered: 56 procedures
Procedures Performed
• Skin cancer excisions
• Local flaps
• Skin grafts
• Diagnostic biopsies
Outcomes & Impact
• Significant reduction in waiting list backlog
• Improved patient access to timely diagnosis and treatment
• High procedural throughput within a short timeframe
• Efficient use of existing NHS infrastructure
• Positive contribution to 2WW pathway performance
Key Benefits for the Trust
• Immediate increase in surgical capacity
• No requirement for long-term workforce expansion
• Flexible, scalable service delivery model
• Consultant-led care ensuring high clinical standards
Conclusion
This case study demonstrates the ability of DermBiopsy Solutions to deliver rapid, high-impact improvements in skin cancer pathways through efficient insourcing models.
The service provides a practical and scalable solution to NHS backlog challenges.
Next Steps
DermBiopsy Solutions works with NHS Trusts and ICSs to deliver similar high-impact services.