Your Appointment
What to expect at your initial appointment
On arrival for your initial appointment a patient information sheet is completed (this maybe completed online prior to your arrival). This allows us to create a patient file and allow you to receive Medicare rebates for our services. Once with the doctor a history is taken to identify risk factors for skin cancers, history of previous skin cancers and previous treatments. Other medical conditions and regular medication can be important in determining your skin cancer risk, and in treating you safely, so you will also be asked about these. The doctor will then check your skin. Depending on your skin this may take 10-30 minutes. If you have >100 moles or a significant history of previous skin cancers, please book a double appointment to give our doctors plenty of time to examine your skin thoroughly.
If a biopsy is required, it may be done at the time of your skin check or you maybe be asked to return for this to be done on a separate occasion, especially if multiple suspicious spots are found.
The clinic uses a recall system to let you know when your next skin check is due.
What should I bring to my initial appointment?
Please bring your Medicare or DVA card, and a list of your ongoing medical problems, medication and allergies to your initial appointment. It would be helpful to your doctor if you have any pathology results from previous skin cancer removals or treatment.
Some people also bring a list of any spots they (or their partner) are concerned about on their skin.
It is also relevant to ask around if there is any family history of melanoma prior to your skin check.
Please do not wear make up for a skin check appointment.
Fees & Payments
The Skin Cancer Centre Coogee is a private clinic and gaps may be relevant to your visit.
As of 1st October 2023, The Skin Cancer Centre Coogee will be changing the gap payments/ out of pocket costs for our consultations and procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to be naked for my skin check?
No. You will be examined in your underwear. Skin cancers can appear everywhere on the body including areas that are covered by underwear. We do not routinely remove underwear but recommend that you review these areas yourself prior to your skin check and relay any concerns you may have to your doctor.
Do I need a referral from my GP to attend the clinic?
No referral is needed to see us although GPs may give you a referral letter if there is a specific area of concern.
Is the treatment covered by my private insurance?
Unfortunately, private insurance does not cover our treatments. Our services do attract a Medicare rebate which will contribute to a portion of the fee for all skin checks and surgical treatments. Medicare will also contribute a portion for some non-surgical treatment options.
I have a single spot of concern, but my skin check is not due.
Please let our reception know if you have a single spot of concern and we will organise a spot check within 7 days of request. We value your role in this partnership and will discuss what you should look for between your skin checks.