Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, with more than two in three Australians diagnosed by the age of 70. The good news? Early detection can save lives. Whether you’ve noticed a new mole, have a family history of melanoma, or simply haven’t had your skin checked in years, this guide will help you understand when it’s time to book a skin check with your local GP in Camberwell.
Why Skin Checks Matter
Australia’s high UV levels make regular skin checks essential. Even people who don’t spend a lot of time in the sun can be at risk, especially if they have fair skin, lots of moles, or a history of sunburns.
The three main types of skin cancer are:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma (the most serious)
When caught early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated with minor procedures performed right in your GP’s clinic.
When Should You Get a Skin Cancer Check? Here are some common signs it’s time to book an appointment:
- You notice a new spot, mole, or lesion that looks unusual
- An existing mole changes in size, shape, or colour
- A sore that doesn’t heal after a few weeks
- A mole becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding
- You have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- You’ve had significant sun exposure or multiple sunburns in the past
- You haven’t had a professional skin check in over 12 months
You don’t need to wait for a problem to appear. Annual skin checks are recommended for most adults in Australia—more frequently if you’re high-risk.
What to Expect During a Skin Check At Camberwell Health, our GPs provide thorough, head-to-toe skin cancer checks. Here’s what happens during your appointment:
- Medical History Review: We ask about your personal and family history of skin cancer, sun exposure, and any concerns.
- Full-Body Exam: You’ll be asked to undress (keeping your underwear on) so the doctor can examine your skin from head to toe, including your scalp, back, and soles of your feet.
- Dermatoscope Use: A dermatoscope (a handheld magnifying device) is used to examine moles and spots in detail.
- Next Steps: If a suspicious spot is found, we may recommend:
- Monitoring the spot over time
- Taking a photo for your records
- Performing a biopsy or minor excision (often done on-site)
The whole process typically takes 15–20 minutes.
Who Performs Skin Checks at Camberwell Health? Our experienced GPs, including Dr Sivarajah, Dr Hanna, and Dr Siddique, have advanced training in skin cancer detection and minor skin procedures. You don’t need a specialist referral to access this care—just book directly with our clinic.
We offer:
- Full skin checks
- Mole mapping (if needed)
- Biopsies and excisions
- Preventive advice on sun safety and self-monitoring
Is It Bulk Billed? Yes. At Camberwell Health, we bulk bill all eligible Medicare patients for skin checks. This includes:
- Initial consultation
- Full skin examination
- Follow-up discussions about results
If a procedure like a biopsy or excision is needed, we’ll discuss any costs upfront. In most cases, these are also bulk billed.
Tips for Your Skin Check Appointment
- Don’t wear makeup or nail polish (these can hide suspicious spots)
- Wear loose-fitting clothes for easy examination
- Bring a list of any concerns or changes you’ve noticed
FAQ
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with any of our GPs who perform skin checks.
How often should I get a skin check?
For most people, once a year is enough. If you’re high-risk, your doctor may recommend every 6 months.
What if a mole looks suspicious?
We’ll assess it on the spot and either monitor it, biopsy it, or remove it—all without needing to go elsewhere.
Can children get skin checks too?
Yes. While less common in kids, any concerning moles or spots should be examined early.
Final Thoughts
Early detection of skin cancer can be lifesaving. Don’t ignore that new mole or suspicious spot. Whether you’re due for a check or have specific concerns, the team at Camberwell Health is here to help.
Book a bulk billed skin cancer check with one of our experienced GPs today—because peace of mind is worth it.