Hot Spot Hell

My golden retriever has a large hot spot on the neck. The vet recommended a veterinary e-collar and she’s being treated with antibiotics, steroids, the whole nine yards. The point is to dry it out. Her cone seems to prevent this by trapping moisture but every time we take it off she scratches severely (like I have to sit there, holding her back paw) and the problem continues. Does anyone have any other ideas to help? She’s miserable and I’m at my wits end!