As Canberrans we have a natural affinity for the great outdoors. Blessed with a temperate climate year-round, there is plenty of sunshine to keep us busy. From parks and ponds to soil and sand; we love nothing more than relishing our natural environment.
Yet as glorious as a summer’s day may be, enjoying it a little too much does have implications. With one of the highest rates of skin cancer the world over, Australians sure have something to think about. And while some of us may be more prone to skin cancer than others, the risk is very real.
That said, there are many ways to stay sun safe throughout the seasons. From simple measures like seeking shade, to wholeheartedly embracing all forms of sun protection, it need not be too hard. Indeed, one of the best ways to keep our skin healthy is with regular skin checks. And what better way to start than with our pick of Canberra’s best skin cancer clinics.
What makes a great skin cancer clinic?
Great skin cancer clinics ensure the health of your skin is their number one priority. If you are looking for a new clinic, the following criteria may help:
- Reputable. Much like any medical service, the best skin cancer clinics are often the most reputable. With tonnes of goodwill and an established reputation, often finding the best can be as easy as asking around. Consult family, friends, and colleagues, and you will quickly have a list of personal recommendations worth exploring.
- Qualified. To ensure your skin is in good hands, look for a skin cancer clinic with qualified and experienced staff. Consider the credentials, skills and experience of the team members conducting skin checks, ideally seeking a qualified dermatologist where possible. Finally look for industry memberships with the Australasian College of Dermatologists or the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
- Full service. Finding a clinic that offers detection, diagnosis, treatment, and management in the one setting makes everything much easier. Here, a full suite of comprehensive services combined with state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment facilities are worth prioritising. Consider how each service is conducted, from how images are taken and stored all the way through to biopsies and removal.
- Affordable. Before committing to a given clinic, consider their schedule of fees. Some will offer an element of bulk billing, while others will require services paid out of pocket. Do remember that extra costs are likely to apply for additional services. Finally, private insurance holders are advised to review coverage to see if any skin cancer procedures are covered.
- Convenient. Given the regular nature of skin cancer clinic visits, be sure to find one that is convenient to you. Consider things like proximity to home or work, after hours and weekend operations, and appointment availability. Moreover, ample on-site parking and easy transport links are also important.
The best skin cancer clinics in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Belconnen Medical & Skin Clinic
Belconnen Medical & Skin Clinic is a multi-disciplinary practice offering the highest quality healthcare to the local community. With a team of specialist general practitioners, allied heath professionals, nurses, and support staff, they offer a range of services including a skin cancer clinic.
Using advanced technology, their experienced doctors offer skin examinations, dermoscopy, excision, and topical chemotherapy.
Lisa Gray shared this insight on Google, “Always polite, easy to get an appointment, friendly staff. Nice Work!”
Envine Skin
Specialise aesthetic and skin cancer clinic, Envine Skin, provide a wholistic approach to skin health. Owner and principal, Dr Shilpa Dahal is passionate about all aspects of skin health, including skin cancer.
With a fully equipped minor theatre, services include skin cancer checks, diagnostic biopsy, surgical extraction, and photo dynamic therapy for sun damaged skin.
As Genevieve Swifte shared on Google, “I've had wonderful care from Dr Dahal! She has picked up things that have been missed in the past. A great listener also very kind and easy to talk to.”
Morris Wellness
General practice with a difference, Morris Wellness adopts an integrative approach to medicine. A key specialisation within the clinic, Dr Andrew Morris is an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor with over twenty years’ experience. Having completed multiple certificate and advanced certificate courses in dermoscopy and skin cancer medicine and surgery, Dr Morris stands as one of Canberra’s skin cancer experts.
Boasting the latest in skin cancer diagnostics, Morris Wellness offers comprehensive computer-assisted full body skin cancer screening, automated total body imaging, integrated body mapping, and surgical removal.
As Louise Patricia reviewed on Google, “Best skin checkup I've ever had. Prompt, on time, use of computer to map is invaluable. Lovely place, highly recommend.”
Florey Medical Centre
Florey Medical Centre has been providing quality health care to Canberra for over 30 years. With a team of primary and allied health care professionals, they offer a comprehensive range of services that meet the needs of the local community. From general checks to managing chronic conditions, they are passionate about helping their clients achieve and maintain optimal health.
Home to a dedicated skin clinic lead by Dr Buckely, Florey Medical Centre also offers skin cancer checks, dermatology, cryotherapy, and surgical procedures.
Steve Steve had this to say on Google, "The best medical practice in Canberra. Such wonderful doctors, been coming here for over 10 years and you can generally always get an appointment. "
For more specialist skin care see our pick of the best dermatologists in Canberra.
Your experience with skin cancer clinics in Canberra
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 clinics listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
GP, dermatologist, skin cancer clinic – what is the difference?
While all provide professional guidance and treatment when it comes to skin cancer, the difference lies in their daily specialisation. Being general practitioners, GPs are experienced in dealing with skin cancer, along with various illnesses and ailments. Similarly, Dermatologists have plenty of experience with skin cancer clients, in addition to those with other skin conditions. Finally, skin cancer clinics focus on skin cancer along. Ultimately, seek assistance from whichever you feel most comfortable!
What are the benefits of visiting a skin cancer clinic?
Visiting skin cancer clinics aids in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various skin cancers. As their sole focus, skin cancer clinics treat the condition on a daily basis. While there are many benefits, the ultimate is your health and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer.
How do skin cancer clinics check for cancer?
Clinics apply a variety of techniques to check for cancer and each are applied based on individual circumstance or need. Typical methods include a visual examination, dermoscopy, digital body photography or mapping, blood tests and biopsies to name a few. For more information contact your local skin cancer clinic.
Do I need a referral for a skin cancer clinic?
No referrals are needed prior to making a booking at a skin cancer clinic. To find out more contact your local skin cancer clinic.
How often should I have a skin cancer check?
Aside from regular self-checks, a good rule of thumb is to seek a professional skin examination at least once a year. Those in higher risk categories may require more frequent examinations, and should any new changes appear be sure to have them checked right away.