Dermatology Mole Check

Our Service exists to meet the increasing demand for skin lesion assessments. Most GPs are not confident in dermoscopy and fear missing a skin cancer. As a consequence, most local dermatology departments are overwhelmed with Two-Week Wait (2WW) referrals. The knock-on effect is all routine dermatology referrals are delayed and delayed. GPs are having to manage patients on a routine waiting list for months before accessing secondary care, often having to write expedite letters and offer additional appointments.

 

Reducing the number of patients seen on a Two-Week Wait pathway is the long term way to increase access for other referrals.
‍
Our Mole Check Dermatology service quickly triage's lesions into those that require routine or urgent outpatient appointments or can be safely discharged and have the mole removed in our clinic. We can reduce onward referral via the Two-Week Wait pathway, freeing up appointments in secondary care for other patients.

​

If your mole is suspicious, you can use your report to join the 2 week urgent pathway.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

​

When should I be worried about a mole?

There is no 'one look' for moles. They may be any colour from skin tone to a range of browns or even black. While most are flat, some are raised and soft to the touch. However, normal moles should be evenly coloured and will have smooth edges – it’s when changes appear that you should be mindful and seek a professional opinion.

​

How often should I get my moles checked?

Everyone with moles should regularly conduct self-checks at home. If you have lots of moles you should self check every 6 months.

​

Why is early detection of skin cancer important?

The early detection of skin cancer is vital and can reduce the risk of disfigurement through removal, or in more serious cases death. It is therefore very important to get to know your own skin so that you can recognise any signs of change that may be potential skin cancer or pre-cancerous skin lesions.

​

I have a mole which are troubling me that I want to be removed for cosmetic reasons, can these be removed without checking?

No, you should see your GP or dermatologist for a clinical review before removal.  All reputable clinics will ask you to undertake this before a removal. GP waits are often lengthy and uncertain.

Using our service, means you have the full facts, results usually arriving within 24 hours.

 

What happens if I need treatment?

The UK consultant dermatologist will provide an opinion on what your mole map represents which will also come with treatment recommendations if indicated. If the mole is deemed benign, you can then book in with us to have the mole removed by our Nurse.

​

Can I use this service for my child?

Yes you can book in for a mole check for your child

​

What happens if you suspect my mole/lesion is cancerous?

If we suspect your mole/lesion is a potentially cancerous mole you should arrange a face-to-face assessment with either your GP or Dermatologist. You will receive a signed report from one of our consultant dermatologists outlining what they think it may represent and what steps you should take next. If we feel that it could represent a very serious skin cancer such as a melanoma one of our team will call you to ensure you have received your mole map report which you should show to your doctor.

​

Who will have access to my photos?

A registered consultant dermatologist will review your images and be responsible for the report that is sent back.