Living in Australia, we’re blessed with sunny weather and clear blue skies. But all that time soaking up those rays does come with a risk – skin cancer. As the most common cancer in the country, most Aussies will deal with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime.
The good news is, when caught and treated early, skin cancer is highly curable. But it does mean being vigilant about monitoring any suspicious spots or moles on your skin. And having an excellent dermatologist and skin cancer clinic you trust for check-ups and treatment is key.
If you’re in Adelaide and looking for a top-notch skin cancer clinic like SunDoctors Adelaide, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of choosing the best skin cancer clinic for your needs. Let’s get started.
What Makes a Great Skin Cancer Clinic?
With skin cancer, early detection and treatment is crucial. So what should you look for when picking a skin cancer clinic?
A Team of Qualified Skin Cancer Doctors
Your first priority should be highly-trained dermatologists and doctors that specialize in skin cancer. Look for clinics with dermatologists certified by the Australasian College of Dermatologists. This rigorous certification ensures your doctor has advanced medical training in caring for skin concerns.
Comprehensive Skin Cancer Screenings
A thorough skin exam conducted by an expert is the best method to identify skin cancer in the earliest stages. The clinic you select will offer a full body skin examination mole mapping and dermoscopy examination. This sophisticated imaging can help identify symptoms of skin cancer which aren’t visible for the eye.
A Wide Range Of Treatment Choices
How you treat skin cancer is dependent upon the kind, extent and the location of your body. A top clinic will provide various treatment options like cryotherapy, curettage, electrodesiccation, excision surgery Mohs surgery, and many more. This means that your doctor will determine the best treatment to suit your needs.
A hospitable, patient-focused environment
Every procedure, no matter how small one, can trigger anxiety. Choose a facility with an inviting, warm atmosphere and a staff who is devoted to the patient’s education and comfort, and support. It creates a space that makes you feel at ease discussing your concerns and have answers to your questions.
Access to Support on a regular basis and follow-up support
The treatment for skin cancer does not always end when a lesion is removed. Be sure to keep a close eye on your examinations of your skin, particularly in the case of high-risk. Find a doctor who emphasizes regular care and lasting patient relations.
Questions to Ask During Touring Clinics
If you’ve got several skin cancer clinics you are thinking of you can schedule appointments to learn more about the clinics. Be prepared with questions to determine the most appropriate treatment. Here are a few important questions to consider:
- What number of skin cancers will you treat every year? You should look for a higher number, since experience is important.
- What is the time frame to make an appointment? Clinics that are more efficient offer appointments on time particularly for skin cancers.
- Do you offer procedures in the office or referrals? Clinic-based treatments are more convenient.
- Do you accept my health insurance? Be sure to confirm the cost and coverage.
- What safety procedures exist for COVID-19? You’re looking for strict standards in hygiene and disinfection.
- What proportion of your clients are returning or new? Repeat visitors indicate satisfied patients.
Make notes after visiting every clinic to note the things you enjoyed, what made you think and what the overall atmosphere was. Be awestruck by the areas where you felt most at ease and secure in the team.
When to Start Visiting a Skin Cancer Clinic
If you’re worried a spot on your skin could potentially be skin cancer, don’t delay – make that appointment. Getting it checked ASAP is critical, as some skin cancers are quick spreading.
But even if you don’t have any particular concerns now, it’s smart to establish a relationship with a dermatologist. The Australasian College of Dermatologists recommends the following screening schedule:
Every 3 Months: For those at very high risk – people who’ve had skin cancer before or are severely immunosuppressed
Annually: For high risk patients – those with a strong family history of melanoma or numerous atypical moles
Every 3 Years: For normal risk individuals with no symptoms – establishes a baseline of your skin
Seeing a dermatologist regularly allows them to monitor your skin closely and notice any changes from normal early on. Early detection truly is the key to surviving skin cancer.
Have a Conversation and Build a Relationship
Finding the right skin cancer clinic takes a bit of research to identify respected options. Schedule getting acquainted visits to get a feel for the vibe and expertise of the staff. Be diligent about going to your annual full-body skin cancer screenings. And speak up about any moles or spots that seem to be changing.
Catching skin cancer in its earliest stages almost always leads to a positive outcome. So take the time to locate a clinic and dermatologist you feel at ease with and can develop an ongoing relationship with. Don’t be shy about asking lots of questions. And if something ever doesn’t feel quite right about a diagnosis or treatment plan, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.
Conclusion
Your health is too important to leave to chance. An excellent dermatology clinic with skin cancer expertise makes all the difference. With the right practitioner checking your skin regularly, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing any suspicious spots won’t be missed.
Here’s to keeping your skin happy and healthy for years to come. Wishing you lots of fun in the Adelaide sun – just don’t forget your broad-brimmed hat and SPF.
