Understanding implementation and usefulness of electronic clinical decision support (eCDS) for melanoma in English primary care: A qualitative investigation

Abstract

Background: Timely diagnosis of the serious skin cancer melanoma can improve patient outcomes. Clinical guidelines suggest that GPs use checklists, such as the 7-point checklist (7PCL), to assess pigmented lesions. In 2016, the 7PCL was disseminated by EMIS as an electronic clinical decision support (eCDS) tool. Aim: To understand GP and patient perspectives on the implementation and usefulness of the eCDS. Design & setting: Semi-structured interviews with GPs and patients were undertaken. The interviews took place in four general practices in the south east of England following consultations using the eCDS for suspicious pigmented lesions. Method: Data were collected from semi-structured fa..