Regular skin checks are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare, especially in today’s world where skin cancer rates continue to rise. Knowing what to expect during your appointment can alleviate any apprehension and empower you to take charge of your skin health. Let’s dive into what you can anticipate during a typical skin check appointment.
1. Appointment Scheduling:
First things first, schedule your appointment with one of our friendly receptionists. We are a specialized clinic and only offer dedicated skin check services. Be sure to book your appointment in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer when UV rays are usually heightened. You also don’t require a referral to book in with our practitioners and booking can be as easy as a few clicks with our online system (https://qutis.com.au/book-appointment/)
2. Arrival and Check-In:
On the day of your appointment, arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork. At the clinic, you’ll check in with the receptionist and provide your medicare information for claiming purposes. Don’t forget to let us know if you have a concession card as discounts apply!
3. Consultation With Our GP Specialised in Skin:
Once called in, you’ll meet with the Doctor who will conduct your skin check. They will usually begin by discussing your medical history, including any previous skin conditions, family history of skin cancer, and sun exposure habits.
4. Examination:
Next comes the physical examination of your skin. You’ll be asked to undress to your undergarments or put on a gown to allow for a thorough examination of your entire body. The Doctor will carefully inspect your skin from head to toe, examining moles, freckles, and any other areas of concern. Our practitioners are well trained in Skin Cancer medicine, so a comprehensive full body skin check only takes about fifteen minutes! If there are any concerns about undressing, please let your Doctor know. They can accommodate your needs and will not make you do anything you are not comfortable with.
5. Assessment and Documentation:
During the examination, the Doctor may use a dermatoscope, a handheld device that provides a magnified view of the skin’s surface, to examine any suspicious areas more closely. Any noteworthy findings will be documented for future reference. If a suspicious lesion is found, your doctor will either take a photo and organise a review or perform a biopsy to be sent for pathology testing and advise you of the results.
6. Education and Recommendations:
Based on the examination results, your Doctor will provide personalised recommendations. This includes advice on sun protection measures, sunscreen products suitable for your skin type, and any necessary follow-up appointments. They’ll also educate you on performing self-exams at home between appointments.
7. Follow-Up Plan:
Depending on your skin health status and any identified concerns, your Doctor will establish a follow-up plan. This may involve scheduling regular skin checks in advance at intervals determined by your risk factors and medical history, or adding a reminder into the system so you will be alerted when you are due to come back for another appointment.
8. Billing and Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments:
After your consultation, you’ll check out with the receptionist. They’ll handle any billing or medicare matters and assist you in scheduling any follow-up appointments as needed.
A skin check appointment is a straightforward yet essential aspect of maintaining optimal skin health. By knowing what to expect during your visit, you can approach it with confidence and ensure that you’re taking proactive steps to safeguard your skin. Remember, early detection is key to effectively managing and treating skin conditions, so don’t hesitate to schedule your next skin check today. Your skin will thank you for it!
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