From Conception to Clinical Practice: A Review of the First National Virtual Psychodermatology MDT in the UK

The national virtual psychodermatology MDT (p-MDT) was established in November 2020 to address the growing need for psychodermatology services and lack of support for healthcare professionals (HCPs) managing these patients. This initiative is developing the psychodermatology workforce by supporting clinicians to manage complex cases locally, thus reducing inconvenience to patients, and benefiting the wider National Health Service by reducing the number of referrals to psychodermatology centres.

To analyse the cases discussed, and recommendations provided by, the p-MDT 2. To provide guidance on establishing a specialist virtual MDT and highlight the importance of the platform, through feedback and by ascertaining the number of cases that were recommended for referral to a psychodermatology clinic.

57 cases were reviewed (August 2023 to August 2025). Data was obtained by reviewing all available p-MDT proformas, and obtaining participant feedback.

Primary psychiatric conditions accounted for 77% (44/57) of discussed cases. The remaining 23% (13/57) were dermatological conditions causing significant psychosocial impact.Only 21% (12/57) of patients discussed were advised to attend a specialist psychodermatology clinic for further assessment, the remaining received guided management locally.Feedback demonstrated that 95% (19/20) of respondents found the p-MDT useful, and would use the service again.

The p-MDT is a cost-effective intervention that reduces referrals to tertiary psychodermatology centres, and ensures that complex patients are receiving timely, specialist-directed care. This virtual platform allows HCPs to obtain advice and work collaboratively, to provide safe management for their patients, overseen by experienced clinicians within this subspeciality.