Artificial intelligence (AI) will be helping to identify possible skin cancers as part of a new service being introduced by Brightlingsea’s Colne Medical Centre.

A new skin lesion/mole clinic at the Station Road centre could see concerned patients referred to have a dermoscopic image taken of any problem areas. The image will then analysed by AI-powered software and a dermatologist to determine whether any further treatment is required. Following initial triage questions – which can also be completed online – appointments for an image will be made within seven days.

The centre is also introducing a targeted lung healthcheck programme for patients aged between 55 and 74 who are known by the practice to be smokers or former smokers.

These patients, who have a higher risk of developing lung cancer , will be invited for a 10-minute telephone or in-person screening appointment. If their risk is deemed high enough, they will be referred for a CT scan of their lungs within a fortnight.

Information booklets are available in reception and staff from the centre will be on hand to promote the services at the Community Health and Wellbeing Day being organised by Brightlingsea Town Council in the community centre on Saturday September 14.