Introduction
The NHS has introduced a free image library aimed at showcasing how various diseases manifest on different skin tones. This initiative is designed to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis for individuals with darker skin.
Background
Medical conditions can present differently depending on skin tone, yet most healthcare images predominantly feature lighter skin. The REFRAME image bank, funded by the NHS and spearheaded by the University of the West of England, contains over 3,000 high-resolution images representing individuals of diverse backgrounds, ages, and health conditions.
Key Features of the Image Library
- Includes images of various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and chickenpox.
- Facilitates access for healthcare professionals, educators, and students worldwide.
- Allows users to filter, download, and utilize images for diagnostics and educational purposes.
Expert Insights
Debbie Hubbard, project lead at the University of the West of England, emphasized the importance of representation in medical imagery:
โIf we donโt have images that reflect reality, we wonโt learn to see it. This is a huge problem as it may lead to delayed or misdiagnosis, resulting in inadequate treatment.โ
Collaboration and Future Plans
The project was developed in collaboration with local communities, GPs, and health centers. The images were verified by expert dermatologists to ensure accuracy. The initiative is set to expand with additional photo sessions and aims to include a broader range of diagnoses and skin types.
Accessibility
The image library, which launched in May 2025, is hosted on the NHS website and is freely accessible to healthcare workers, educators, and students globally. Sarah Todd, a senior specialist in education for urgent and emergency care at NHS England, stated:
โThis project is a landmark effort to enhance patient care by equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary resources to recognize signs of illness across all patient demographics.โ