NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde skin cancer service praised

Based at the Canniesburn Plastic Surgery Unit at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the service is run by advanced clinical nurse specialists Fiona Oakey and Joe Poole.

The pair have developed a nationally recognised model for skin cancer surveillance.

Graham Christie, general manager for burns and plastics at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: "The Canniesburn Unit has a long-standing international reputation for excellence in burns and plastic care, and the work of Fiona and Joe builds on that legacy in a really important way.

"The service they have developed provides patients with continuity, reassurance and expert support at every stage of their recovery.

"Their ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care while working closely with colleagues across the region makes this a strong and sustainable model.

"As demand continues to grow, services like this are vital in ensuring patients receive timely follow-up care and feel supported long after their initial treatment."

Skin cancer clinical nurse specialists Fiona Oakey and Joe Poole (Image: NHSGGC)

Established 15 years ago, the service initially focused on melanoma but has since expanded.

It now covers a broader range of skin cancers, including rare and advanced cases.

Fiona, who has been a nurse for 30 years and part of the service since its inception, said: "We support patients after surgery and stay with them through their recovery, sometimes for many years.

"Having that continuity means we really get to know our patients and can spot concerns early, which is hugely important."

The team offers patients a consistent point of contact, with patients supported throughout their recovery, often for life, giving them a consistent and trusted point of contact.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, the nursing team leads on patient care, coordinates treatment, and maintains close collaboration with consultants and multidisciplinary teams.

Joe, who joined the team in 2019 and has more than 20 years' nursing experience, said: "Our approach is simple but powerful – to be there when patients need us.

"If someone is worried, being able to pick up the phone and speak to someone who knows them and their history can make a real difference."

Patients receive direct contact details for the team and are encouraged to get in touch with any concerns.

Messages are reviewed daily, and many patients are seen within days if needed.

Meanwhile, regular clinical examinations offer further reassurance during what can be an anxious time.

The service also plays a key role across the West of Scotland, coordinating care for complex skin cancer cases as part of the regional Multi-Disciplinary Team.

Patients in NHS Lanarkshire and NHS Ayrshire & Arran are also supported through the service.

The team’s approach has received national recognition.

In 2024, Joe presented their work at the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) conference, sharing early findings from an ongoing audit, with plans to publish further results.

This work comes amid rising rates of skin cancer, with Fiona and Joe keen to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention.

Around 1700 people in Scotland are diagnosed with melanoma each year, a figure that has increased significantly over the past 10 years.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has also seen a rise in confirmed cases and referrals for suspected melanoma.

Fiona said: "A lot of people think skin cancer is linked to sunbeds, but the vast majority of our patients have never used one.

"It’s often everyday exposure – being outside for work or hobbies like gardening or golf – that adds up over time.

"We’re trying to encourage people to think about sun protection differently.

"It’s not just for holidays.

"It’s about making it part of your routine at home as well – using sunscreen, wearing a hat, covering up where you can.

"It’s the same sun here after all."

With demand continuing to grow, the team is expanding to include an additional clinical nurse specialist.

More information on sun safety is available at NHS Inform.