Skin cancer is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to significant scarring and disfigurement. It’s essential to have your skin checked regularly for any signs of skin cancer by a qualified dermatologist, but what should you do if the doctor finds something suspicious? In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on finding a reputable skin cancer clinic in your area. The pointers below will help you make an informed decision about where to seek treatment based on location and qualifications. Here are the factors you need to observe:
Experience
Identify a skin cancer clinic that has experience with your type of skin cancer. Look for a clinic with at least five years of experience treating skin cancer, as well as the number of treatments provided annually and how many cases they see each year. If possible, ask to speak with someone who has been treated by the doctor or team before so you can get an accurate idea about their level of expertise.
Accreditation
Find a skin cancer clinic that a reputable organization has accredited. The Joint Commission (TJC) provides accreditation to healthcare organizations that meet its stringent standards. TJC is an independent non-profit organization that gives hospitals and clinics the means to improve the quality of care. You can also look for a skin cancer clinic by asking your primary care physician or dermatologist, as they will probably have recommendations.
Specialty
It is advisable to get a dermatologist who specializes in treating your particular type of skin cancer. For example, if you have squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), choose a dermatologist who has extensive knowledge in treating this form of skin cancer. It would mean they are familiar with the latest treatments and best practices for SCC. Additionally, if your dermatologist specializes in melanoma, they are likely very well trained in treating skin cancer.
Certification and Permits
Make sure the doctor is board certified and licensed to practice medicine in your state. If you seek treatment for a particular condition, it is crucial to ensure that your doctor has the appropriate training. You can check with your state’s medical board or licensing agency to find out if their license is valid and in good standing.
Reviews and Ratings
When seeking any medical service, it is always good to read reviews and ratings of the clinic. Reviews help you decide whether a particular service provider is worth your time, money, effort, and energy. However, with online platforms like Facebook, where anyone can post an opinion about any business these days (whether truthful or otherwise), this makes reading customer feedback more difficult.
With medical clinics, you must consult a professional before deciding whether to continue treatment with a specific clinic. The tips above should come in handy to help you make an informed selection.