Who are the best skin cancer specialists in the Eurobodalla region? Photo: File.
As its namesake implies, Eurobodalla is the land between waters. Full to brim of pristine coastland, glistening beaches, winding rivers, and glorious greenery. And, if you are most of us, you have no doubt enjoyed countless summers outdoors from dawn till dusk.
Sadly, it is this love of the outdoors does have its consequences. As it turns out, Australian’s spearhead the list with some of the highest skin rates in the world. Indeed, some sources state that two out three Australian’s will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime.
And while there are differing views on why, almost all experts can agree on two things. Firstly, that sun protection should be ingrained in our lifestyle; and secondly that greater diligence with checking skin for cancer is need.
For the most part, preventative measures have been widely adopted from infants up. Hats and rash vests are more common than not, and sunscreen is a part of our daily summer repertoire. As for skin cancer checks, there is plenty of room for improvement!
So, the question becomes why are we dragging out feet? Perhaps its uncertainty on where to go, maybe its fear of the unknown, or perhaps the inconvenience? What ever the reason we should park out anxieties aside and just get on with it.
Unsure where to start? The good news is that we have done the heavy lifting for you, curating a list of Eurobodalla’s best skin cancer clinics. Read on below to find out more!
What makes a great skin cancer specialist?
Great skin cancer specialists take your skin as seriously as their own. They are meticulous with levels of care and stop at nothing to ensure your dermal layers stay healthy. When evaluating skin cancer specialists in Eurobodalla keep these things in mind:
- Qualified & Experienced. Skin cancer specialists are often general practitioners with an interest in the field. General practitioners hold a Doctor of Medicine, a fellowship, and are registered. Doctors who are skin cancer practitioners undergo additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. This typically takes the form of a certificate, diploma, or masters qualification in skin cancer or dermatology. Qualifications aside, experience also counts when seeking a skin cancer specialist. The best come with years of well-rounded experience, a steady hand, and many happy patients.
- Clear Credentials. Good skin cancer specialists tick all the mandatory qualifications, but the best hold extra credentials too. Look for specialists who are members of the peak industry body, the Skin Cancer College Australasia. If you are consulting a dermatologist, the best are members of the Australasian College of Dermatology.
- Top Technology. Tried and tested skin assessment methods have served skin clinics well. However, like many medical industries technology in this area is always advancing. A wide range of skin imaging technologies now exist including digital or computerised dermoscopy. So, for the most accurate assessment, seek specialists utilising cutting-edge technology to diagnose client needs.
- All Services. While an annual check is recommended, you may find yourself needing follow up appointments, biopsies and more. To minimise the number of contacts – and practices – look for a specialist that offers all skin services under one roof. Doing so adds to convenience while building long standing patient-carer relationships.
- Comfortable Manner. As most of your time will be spent cloaked in a white exam gown, find a specialist that you feel comfortable with. A great bedside manner will help put you at ease – making appointments less stressful. Moreover, building a relationship with a specialist not only helps provide consistent care; it makes the process easier too.
The best skin cancer specialists in Eurobodalla
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Queen Street Medical
With a local heritage that spans over forty-five years, Queen Street Medical stands as one of the most highly regarded practices in the Eurobodalla region. Their practices are conveniently across two locations, Moruya and Broulee, offering unparalleled access to patients.
With a team of twenty plus highly experienced doctors, Queen Street Medical are the first port of call for many of the region’s locals. Many of their doctors boast decades of experience around Australia and abroad; and take pride in their role as rural practitioners above all else.
As part of their comprehensive service capability, Queen Street Medical offers skin cancer screening and management. Headed by Dr Thilan Walgamage, Queen Street Medical offers weekly clinics for skin examinations and surgical procedures.
Dr Walgamage is a general practitioner with extensive surgical skills; and importantly holds specific qualifications in skin cancer medicine and skin cancer surgery. His services include general examinations, minor skin cancer surgeries, and advanced skin cancer procedures including skin grafts.
Queen Street Medical’s accolades do not stop there. Their practice is accredited by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, and as such adheres to the highest of standards in quality health care. Moreover, the centre is a training facility for the Australian National University Medical School and the University of Wollongong School of Nursing.
With all the above it is no surprise that their practise philosophy is anchored in a professional relationship whereby the journey is shared. This meaningful approach to patient care is testament to their standards of respect, courtesy, compassion and understanding. For the highest quality care with an experienced team of dedicated professionals look to Queen Street Medical.
Alexander Eresov shared his experience of Queen Street Medical Moruya on Google, “Well managed practice, great doctors and great nurses. Big difference from what I used to see in capital cities.”
Moruya General Practice & Skin Cancer Clinic
Conveniently located at the centre of town, is Moruya General Practice & Skin Cancer Clinic. As a private practise, it is run by Dr Martin Carlson and a highly skilled team of medical and ancillary staff.
With over thirty years-experience as a general practitioner, and twenty in the local region, Dr Carlson has undertaken specialised training in the detection and management of skin cancers. For experienced care backed by an impressive reputation see Moruya General Practice & Skin Cancer Clinic.
Edwina Robinson shared her experience with Moruya Medical Centre on Google, “I needed to have my skin assessed as I had some spots of concern. They were very professional. A couple of biopsies taken, a few neat stitches and results back quickly.”
Moruya Medical Centre
Moruya Medical Centre is an eight-doctor general practitioner surgery, offering a wide range of health care services. Skin services offered include skin checks, along with the removal of moles and sunspots all under the one roof.
Their highly experienced and diverse team are supported by practise nurses, registrars, visiting specialists, and allied health professionals delivering quality care to the Eurobodalla region.
For extra peace of mind, this surgery is also a teaching facility for the Australian National University Medical School. For experienced care look to Moruya Medical Centre.
Anne Shoemark shared this review on Google, “Excellent practice. Friendly and obliging staff. Have been to a number of the Drs in this practice and found each of them caring, understanding and committed to patient care. Definitely treated as a person and not just a number. Highly recommended.”
Your experience with skin cancer specialists in Eurobodalla
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the skin cancer specialists listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you get skin checks?
It is suggested that skin be checked bi-annually by your doctor as part of an overall wellness check. In addition, a full body skin check with skin cancer detection experts should be completed every year.
Where can I have my skin checked?
There are three typical avenues for skin checks. Firstly, a GP can perform a skin check and examine any areas of concern. Secondly, skin cancer clinics also provide skin checks. Many clinics operate within general practices however their focus is purely on skin cancer. Finally, dermatologists are often referred for those at high risk of melanoma or for another opinion.
What happens during skin cancer body exam?
A typical skin body exam requires a comprehensive review of every part of your skin. Your examiner will ask about any moles that concern you, and will review these, along with all others. The examiner will generally use a dermatoscope to magnify and light the skin; and may measure or take pictures of the moles themselves. You will be required to take off clothing and wear a medical exam gown during the exam. The exam itself typically takes 20 minutes.
What is an excision biopsy?
An excision biopsy is a brief and simple procedure used to remove moles for skin cancer detection. As part of this procedure local anaesthetic is applied after which the mole and surrounding tissue is removed using a scalpel. The wound may then require stiches. Following extraction, the sample is sent to pathology for further examination.
How is skin cancer treated?
Treatment options selected depend on age, general health, the type and of cancer, where it is on the body and whether it has spread. Typical treatments include freezing, surgery, scraping, radiotherapy, removing lymph nodes, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy. For further detail on any of the above please consult your doctor.
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