Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers all over the world. In Australia, at least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70 years old. While it can’t be completely prevented, early detection and treatment can increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of disfigurement or death.
Australia is home to some of the best skin cancer clinics in the world. It is never too late for you to visit a skin cancer clinic and avail their services as part of your early diagnosis measures. According to reports, a person working as a dermatologist in Australia typically earns around 271,000 AUD per year.
However, as there are many such clinics around, choosing one that suits your needs might be tough, especially if you don’t know what factors to consider when choosing a clinic.
Here are some tips for you to keep in mind when choosing a skin cancer clinic.
The Experience of Physicians at the Clinic
According to reports, a total of 98 per cent of dermatologists reported using dermoscopy, and 95 per cent have received formal training in using skincare technology in Australia.
You should always look for a medical facility like a skin cancer clinic that has been in operation for some years now. Experience is essential as it helps the doctors, nurses, and other staff at the clinic diagnose cases better from time to time.
That is why it is also important to look at their job profiles online so you can see how experienced they are. You can check out the clinic website for this information or contact the clinic directly to inquire about this matter.
A Trained and Qualified Staff
Skin cancer clinics typically employ nurses who specialize in dermatology and technicians, including those with expertise in Mohs surgery. It would help if you verified that all staff are appropriately trained and qualified to administer the treatment they’re providing.
It will ensure that they provide adequate care throughout your entire treatment process.
An Experienced Medical Director
The chief physician, or medical director, of a skin cancer clinic in Australia, shapes the environment surrounding patient care. If you have questions about your condition or particular treatment you want to know, the chief physician has the necessary experience to answer them.
It’s not uncommon for well-respected surgeons and dermatologists to open their skin cancer clinics, so it would benefit you to research the clinic’s medical director before committing to treatment.
Patient Reviews
One of the best ways to find if a clinic provides the services you need is to read reviews from actual patients. While many clinics attempt to boost their online ratings, a few reviews should give you a good sense of the clinic’s ability to treat your condition and provide an excellent experience overall.
The Type of Care Offered and the Equipment Used
Because skin cancer treatments can vary depending on location and size, it’s essential to learn about the services offered at a particular clinic. You should contact the clinic to determine if surgery or radiation is necessary for your type of skin cancer.
You’ll also want to know what equipment is available at the office, including the following:
– Mohs surgery microscopes
– Surgical lasers
– Excimer lasers for ablative surgery
– Intense pulsed light (IPL) or electron-beam radiation
– Digital photography equipment with reflectance spectroscopy capabilities
While you want to make sure the equipment is sufficient for your particular case, it’s equally essential that all staff can use the equipment effectively. You should also inspect the equipment to ensure it’s up-to-date and in good working order.