How to Get a Derm to Look at Your Mole
Photo courtesy Fitsugar.com
Yes, this is a serious post! According to the July 2008 issue of Oprah magazine, a recent study found that dermatologists’ median wait time for the evaluation of a mole is about 25 days, while the wait for Botox injections is 8 days. In other words, if you need a dermatologist to look at your mole, book that cosmetic procedure you’ve always wanted, and then ask when you’re there (kind of like a two-for-one deal)! Sad that this kind of thing happens, but so long as physicians are better compensated for cosmetic procedures than skin cancer screenings, this will inevitably occur. Luckily, you now have knowledge on your side. 
The compensation was the first thing that popped into my mind. $400+ for Botox vs. whatever a office visit is. But I never would have guessed there was such a discrepency on wait times. I’ve never actually had a dermatoligist look at my moles; my GP’s office will assess, remove, and test them with only wait of a few days.
Comment by Christine | June 18, 2008
Yes that is sad!!!
Around 9 years ago, I had two moles removed from my face– however, as a result, I have two slightly raised scars where those moles once were. What would be the best way to level the scars with the rest of my skin? I’ve heard about sanding, but do you know of a better way to get rid of them?
Comment by naom | June 19, 2008
Can my family physician assess a mole? I know I had my doctor look at a raised bump on my back that I had developed and I don’t remember what she said it was, but she assured me it was nothing to be concerned with. I figured she could tell me if I needed to call a dermatologist and insist that I be seen asap.
Comment by Pam | June 19, 2008
What annoys me is that I had an appt with a derm (very reputable) for acne and scarring about a month ago, and never did he do a mole check or ask if I had any concerns. I thought that was becoming standard for doc to ask and do a check. When I was pregnant 6 years ago and had a pregnancy-related skin condition, the wonderful nurse practitioner insisted on doing a full body skin check before discussing my other issues. So sad the priorities of doctors. I would feel more comfortable with my GP or Gyn to do this initial check.
Comment by sofi76 | June 19, 2008
I really feel that we live in a society that is not preventive driven. And until that occurs, it seems as though the burden is on each person to make sure they get everything covered. unfortunately, sometimes we don’t even know what to ask about. I was very pushy with my derm about a mole I had when she was examining my daughter for a bite, and I asked that she look at my mole. She was great about looking at it, and then, she said lets remove it and check to be sure it isn’t cancer. Thank God it wasn’t, but I think with the rise of skin cancer, I really wish it would become routine to check.
Comment by Elaine | June 19, 2008
I agree with you Elaine–I wish the doctors here are more like they are in some parts of asia- they push more prevention rather than curing all with a pill. Which is why I love Dr. Mehmet Oz so much– I think we need more doctors like him. Preach good health habits .
Comment by naom | June 19, 2008