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Skin and Mole Treatment – One Point Medical

As Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world, skin checks are essential for those who wish to take a proactive approach to their health.

To reduce the impact of skin cancer, early detection of skin cancer is necessary. This can be achieved with regular skin self examination complimented by a professional skin check carried out by your GP

What are the benefits of a professional skin check?

Self examination or having a partner, friend or family member check is good yet professional medical examination and advice is best for the health management of skin spots and moles. GP’s are more experienced in detecting skin cancer and have the ability to treat or refer depending on the situation.

Apart from providing early skin cancer diagnosis, a skin check is an opportunity for your GP to assess your individual risk, provide further education of how to carry out a skin self examination as well as offer advice on sun protection and reinforce the primary prevention message of ‘slip, slop, slap, seek and slide’.

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When should I have a skin check?

The frequency with which you should have skin checks will depend on factors such as your age, hair and skin type and a targeted history that includes previous skin cancers, family history, occupation, level of sun exposure and frequency of sun protection.

Your GP will assess these factors and recommend the frequency with which you should be professionally checked.

Should you have a spot or mole that develops quickly or is of particular concern because it has recently changed shape, colour or is irritating then attending re-examination outside of your regular skin check schedule is recommended.

What to bring with you to a skin or mole check?

To enable us to offer the best possible skin check please take the following into consideration before attending a skin and mole check;

  • If an initial consultation, please bring a list of your medications and pre-existing conditions such as your allergies and prescriptions as these may influence treatment options for skin cancers.
  • Check if there are any close relatives with a history of skin cancer, especially melanoma.
  • Note of any new, changing, irritating moles or growths on your skin as well as any new red patches of skin or pimple like nodules.
  • In addition to your notes any accompanying images that would be helpful in illustrating the changes to a mole or skin spot over time.
  • Avoid applying anything to the surface of your skin before your appointment that could disguise the presence of skin cancer. The absence of makeup, sunscreen, and even nail polish will ensure a more thorough skin check.
  • For those with long hair having your hair knot free and having a hair tie handy will help your scalp, ears and neck to be viewed more closely and clearly.
  • Skin that has no exposure to the sun can still produce skin cancer. Throughly check your breasts and groin before the appointment and be sure to mention any lesions you are worried about.
  • Wear clean and comfortable underwear as you will be asked to remove your outer clothes down to these items for your skin and mole check.

Category A rating

One Point Medical has once again received a category A rating on accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to quality and safety within the practice.

More information can be found here.