Frequently Asked Questions
Our Skin Cancer Doctor’s FAQ Section
Here at our Body Scan Clinic, we understand that you may have many questions about skin cancer, and we are here to help. If you have a question that is not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact our melanoma clinic. Alternatively, if you’d like a mole and skin check on the Sunshine Coast, please make an appointment.
Some of the most common questions from our patients
What are your fees?
Please refer to our Services & Fees page.
Do I need a referral?
No.
How do I make payment?
Payment is required on the day. We do not accept cash so please pay with a bank card. Bring the debit card linked to your Medicare account as sometimes we can facilitate immediate rebates.
What is the Medicare safety net?
The Medicare safety nets help reduce the out of pocket costs for out of hospital services. Click here for further information.
Can I use my private health insurance?
No. By law, private health insurance cannot cover out of hospital medical services. Click here for further information.
What happens during a skin and mole check?
Your doctor will inquire about your concerns and relevant medical history then ask you to undress and position yourself on the examination table. We have curtains and sheets available to keep you modest. The doctor will methodically check over your body, using a dermatoscope device to look closely at spots.
Do I have to get completely undressed for a skin check?
Most of our patients prefer to leave their underwear on for a skin check. Please advise your doctor if you want to be checked underneath. Skin cancers can occur anywhere on the body. We may have a female staff member available to chaperone.
Do you recommend a particular sunscreen?
We recommend using SPF 30+ creams and lotions. Any brand is fine and sometimes you need to try a number to find one that you like. Spray on sunscreens are often not applied thickly enough to be reliable. Don’t forget to use shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. UV rating apps such as SunSmart are helpful to plan outdoor activities.
Do you have disability access?
Our clinic is ground floor and can be accessed by wheelchair. Motorised carts cannot enter the clinic. There is a disability park near the clinic entrance.
Do you do total body photography?
No. If you are assessed as being high risk of melanoma and an appropriate candidate for total body photography, we will refer you to a local service, such as the free ACEMID clinical trial at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital which uses a Vectra 3D Skin Imaging System.
What can I do to prepare for a skin check?
For your first appointment, please arrive 5-10 minutes early to complete a registration form if you did not complete one online. Traffic and parking can be slow in Buderim so please budget extra time. Please wear clothing and footwear that can be readily removed for your skin check. Please do not wear makeup as this could disguise skin cancers (we have make up removal wipes available). Please wear your hair loose so we can check your scalp. If you have concerns with your nails, do not wear polish or artificial nails over the top. We appreciate you having a shower prior to your appointment to remove dirt, sweat and grime on the skin. Also, if you have a biopsy performed you will need to keep a dressing dry overnight.
Where are you located?
Find us in Buderim Mall, across the road from Dee Den Restaurant, Rou Bourbon Coffee and the Buderim Tavern.
Choose the skin cancer doctor on the Sunshine Coast who provides comprehensive and compassionate care.
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