New Dermatology short course for healthcare professionals
21 July 2026
Hull York Medical School has launched a new continuing professional development (CPD) course designed to help healthcare professionals build confidence and expertise in recognising and managing common dermatological conditions in community settings.
The new ‘Community Dermatology Essentials’ short course is aimed at professionals working across primary and community care, including GPs, Advanced Clinical Practitioners, Physician Associates, nurses, pharmacists and other allied health professionals.
An estimated 60% of people in the UK suffer from or have suffered from a skin condition during their lifetime* and demand for dermatology services is increasing. In recognition of this, the course aims to equip practitioners with the practical knowledge and skills needed to assess, manage and appropriately refer patients who present with common skin conditions.
Delivered by experienced clinicians, ‘Community Dermatology Essentials’ combiners evidence-based learning with real-world clinical case studies to provide participants with a comprehensive introduction to community dermatology.
The curriculum is mapped to the skin conditions most commonly encountered in primary care, including skin infections, acne, eczema, psoriasis, hair and nail disorders, pigment disorders and skin health in older adults.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Alison Layton, Professor of Dermatology at Hull York Medical School Consultant Dermatologist at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust who is leading the course says:
‘Skin conditions are among the most common reasons for patients to seek healthcare advice, yet many professionals working in primary and community care have limited opportunities for specialist dermatology training.
‘Community Dermatology Essentials has been designed to address this need - providing accessible training which will help practitioners develop the clinical knowledge and confidence to manage common dermatological conditions safely and effectively within community settings.
‘By supporting earlier assessment, appropriate treatment and timely referral where needed, we hope the course will contribute to improve the experiences of patients living with skin conditions.’
The launch of this new programme reflects Hull York Medical School’s commitment to delivering high-quality continuing professional development opportunities that respond to changing healthcare needs and support workforce development across the region and beyond.
Participants will study via blended learning over a six-month period - comprising two full day in-person sessions based in York on the 27th October 2026 and 27th April 2027 with 10 two-hour online sessions and self-directed learning, including reading, a weekly case log, discussion preparation, session reflection and assessment revision between the face-to-face events. This flexible learning approach has been designed to fit around professional commitments and means that participants can gain practical skills that can be applied immediately within their day-to-day work.
Professor Lucy Ambrose, Associate Dean for Education at Hull York Medical School, said: ‘As healthcare continues to evolve, there is increasing emphasis on delivering high-quality care closer to home. Community Dermatology Essentials will provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to support people with skin conditions – delivering advice, guidance and care within primary and community settings.
‘Personally, as an academic and a GP, I am delighted to add this course to our growing portfolio of professional development programmes.’
Applications for Community Dermatology Essentials are now open.
Visit the Hull York Medical School website for further information about Community Dermatology Essentials, including eligibility, course dates and how to apply.
*British Association of Dermatologists.