Strategies to Improve Melanoma Detection: Primary Care Partnerships, ECHO, eConsult, Dermoscopy, Melanoma Mapping and more

In the pursuit of enhancing melanoma detection in rural Maine, strategies have been implemented to empower primary care physicians (PCPs) due to the shortage of dermatologists. Acknowledging that many PCPs lacked the confidence and training in skin evaluations, initiatives such as dermoscopy workshops and ECHO programs were introduced. Through a series of workshops, 267 PCPs were trained in using the Triage Amalgamated Dermoscopic Algorithm (TADA) for effective skin lesion assessments. Additionally, the ECHO program connected PCPs with specialists, creating a collaborative learning environment while promoting retention of knowledge. Evaluation revealed significant improvements, with 96% of participants using dermoscopy regularly after training. The introduction of E-consult platforms provided asynchronous consultations, facilitating timely evaluations and reducing patient referral barriers. Assessments indicated a decrease in benign biopsies, showcasing an overall increase in melanoma diagnoses, hinting at enhanced detection capabilities. Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the E-consult program into underserved areas, improving access to care with optimized technology, including an AI-assisted imaging platform for better dermatological assessments. The overarching goal is to leverage these technological advancements and training strategies to uplift melanoma detection and treatment outcomes across underserved regions.