If you notice any new spots or changes in the colour, size or shape of existing spots, see your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is the key. Most skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early. Your doctor examine your skin and advise you of the most appropriate course of action. This may involve a minor procedure to remove the spot or to take a small sample for testing.
There are four main points to consider when choosing and using a skin clinic:
Qualifications and experience of staff
- What are the qualifications, skills andexperience of the person examining my skin? will a specially trained doctor check my skin?
- Is the doctor members of any professional associations relevant to skin cancer, such as the Skin Cancer College of Australasia or the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners?
- If there are photos taken of spots/moles, who will review these.
Costs
- Some clinics bulk bill for the first visit; others require payment up front. When you make your appointment ask if the clinic bulk bills and whether there might be other additional costs. If the person examining your skin believes you have a skin cancer, they may want to do a biopsy to test the spot or remove the whole spot and have it sent for testing. This may involve extra charges that cannot be bulk billed.
- Ask for the full cost of each procedure and
- If you can’t afford a procedure at the moment, ask if it is urgent or if you can return when you can afford it. You may be able to have it done at lower cost at a public hospital or through your GP.
- If the clinic uses scanning technology, do they charge more for storing your images and for follow-up appointments?
Diagnosis and treatment
If you are diagnosed with skin cancer enquire about the following issues:
- What type of skin cancer do I have?
- How extensive is the skin cancer?
- Do I need treatment immediately? Is the person offering treatment well trained to do so? What are the treatment options and the benefits/risks of each treatment option?
Follow-up
Once you have had your skin examined, the clinic should also give information about skin cancer prevention and any follow-up you may need.Ask the clinic for:
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- results of any tests you have had
- information about skin cancer information about prevention and sun protection
- information about checking your own skin
- a reminder letter about future check-ups
- a record of your diagnosis and treatment to be sent to your GP.
It is your right to seek a second opinion about any diagnosis and proposed treatment. Skin cancer, especially melanoma, should be treated promptly after diagnosis. Almost all cases of melanoma require expert care.The risks for most treatments will be minor, but may include infection, pain and permanent scarring. Whoever plans your treatment should also provide follow-up care and information.
