Skin Cancer Checks & Skin Checks
Skin Cancer Checks & Skin Checks in Wollongong
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and the Illawarra is no exception to a lifetime of sun exposure. A spot you’ve had for years, a new mole that’s changed shape, or just a nagging feeling that something doesn’t look right, these are all good enough reasons to have your skin checked by a GP. At Wollongong Doctors, skin cancer checks are available as part of a GP consultation, performed by doctors with skin cancer medicine credentials.
Skin Cancer Checks at Our Wollongong Clinic
At Wollongong Doctors, skin checks are conducted by GPs with skin cancer medicine credentials and training. Our doctors use dermoscopy, a specialised tool that allows for closer examination of skin lesions, as part of the skin check process, supporting a more thorough clinical assessment of any areas of concern.
What Is a Skin Cancer Check?
A skin cancer check is a clinical examination of the skin conducted by a GP to assess moles, lesions, and other skin changes for features that may warrant further investigation or
management. During a skin check, your doctor will examine areas of your skin and use dermoscopy where relevant to assess any spots or lesions of concern. A skin check is not a guarantee that skin cancer is absent. It is a clinical assessment that helps your GP identify any areas requiring further review, monitoring, or management.
What Is Dermoscopy?
Dermoscopy is a non-invasive examination technique that uses a handheld instrument to examine the skin under magnification and controlled lighting. It allows GPs trained in skin cancer medicine to assess the structure and features of skin lesions in greater detail than is possible with the naked eye alone.
Dermoscopy is a commonly used tool in skin cancer medicine and forms part of the skin check assessment at Wollongong Doctors.
Who Should Have a Skin Check?
A skin check may be relevant for a wide range of patients. Speaking with your GP about a skin
check is a sensible step if you:
- Have noticed a new spot, mole, or skin lesion that concerns you
- Have a mole or spot that has changed in size, shape, colour, or texture
- Have a spot that itches, bleeds, or does not heal
- Have a personal history of skin cancer or precancerous lesions
- Have a family history of melanoma or skin cancer
- Have had significant sun exposure over your lifetime
- Work or spend considerable time outdoors
- Have fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
- Have a large number of moles
Your GP will assess your individual circumstances and advise on whether a skin check is
appropriate for you and how regularly reviews may be recommended.
What to Expect During Your Skin Check
A skin check at Wollongong Doctors is a straightforward GP consultation. Your appointment may include the following:
- Consultation: Your GP will discuss your skin concerns, personal and family history of skin cancer, sun exposure history, and any specific spots or changes you have noticed.
- Skin Examination: Your doctor will examine your skin, including any areas of specific concern. You may be asked to undress to allow for a thorough assessment of relevant areas.
- Dermoscopy: Where appropriate, your GP will use a dermatoscope to examine lesions or moles more closely.
- Clinical Assessment: Your GP will assess any findings and discuss the results with you, including whether any areas require further monitoring, investigation, or management.
- Follow-Up and Referrals: Where a lesion requires a biopsy, excision, or specialist review, your GP will discuss next steps and arrange appropriate referrals or follow-up care.
Minor Skin Procedures
Where a lesion or skin change requires further investigation or removal, Wollongong Doctors offers a range of minor skin procedures as part of our general practice services. These may include skin biopsies and minor procedures for the management of relevant skin lesions. Your GP will discuss the most appropriate management approach based on your individual clinical
circumstances.
Skin Conditions We Assess
During a skin check, your GP may assess a range of skin changes and conditions, including:
- Melanoma and suspected melanoma
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- Actinic keratoses (sunspots)
- Dysplastic or atypical naevi (unusual moles)
- Seborrhoeic keratoses
- Dermatofibroma
- Cysts and benign skin lesions
- General skin conditions and dermatological concerns
This list is not exhaustive. If you have any concern about a spot, lesion, or skin change, speak with your GP, who can assess and advise on appropriate next steps.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma Awareness
When self-monitoring your skin between checks, a commonly referenced guide is the ABCDE
framework:
- A — Asymmetry: one half of a mole or spot does not match the other
- B — Border: edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
- C — Colour: uneven colour, or multiple shades within one spot
- D — Diameter: larger than approximately 6mm, though melanomas can be smaller
- E — Evolving: any change in size, shape, colour, or any new symptom such as bleeding or itching
If you notice any of these features in a mole or skin lesion, speaking with a GP is recommended.
This framework is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for a clinical skin assessment.
100% Bulk Billing Clinic
Wollongong Doctors is a bulk billing clinic. Patients with a valid Medicare card are bulk billed for GP consultations, meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost for your appointment.
Please note that some procedures and services may incur a private fee. We recommend contacting the clinic prior to your appointment to confirm the billing arrangements relevant to your specific care.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for a skin cancer check at Wollongong Doctors?
No referral is needed. You can book a skin check appointment directly with our clinic via HotDoc or by calling our reception team.
How long does a skin check take?
Appointment times vary depending on the extent of the skin check and the number of areas requiring assessment. We recommend booking a dedicated skin check appointment rather than combining it with other unrelated health concerns, to allow adequate time for a thorough examination.
What should I wear to a skin check appointment?
Wearing loose, easy-to-remove clothing is helpful. Your GP will advise on which areas of skin need to be examined during the consultation.
Do your GPs have skin cancer medicine credentials?
Yes. Wollongong Doctors has GPs with skin cancer medicine credentials who conduct skin checks and use dermoscopy as part of the assessment process.
What happens if my GP finds something concerning?
If your GP identifies a lesion or area that requires further assessment, they will discuss the findings with you and advise on appropriate next steps. This may include a biopsy, minor procedure, monitoring, or referral for specialist review, depending on the clinical findings.
How often should I have a skin check?
The frequency of skin checks will depend on your individual risk factors, skin type, history of sun exposure, and personal or family history of skin cancer. Your GP will advise on how often a review is appropriate for your circumstances.
Where is Wollongong Doctors located?
We are located at LG W005, Wollongong Central, 200 Crown Street, Wollongong NSW 2500, next door to Chemist Warehouse. We welcome patients from across the Illawarra region.
Book a Skin Check in Wollongong
If you have a spot or mole you are concerned about, or if you would like to book a skin cancer check, our team at Wollongong Doctors is available to assist.
