FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
^ Back to topWhy choose a Southern Sun Skin Cancer Clinic over a GP?
Importantly, the Southern Sun offers comprehensive and thorough prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of skin cancer. All of our Doctors are highly competent in skin cancer medicine, have completed extra training in skin cancer treatment and management and have a wealth of experience in skin cancer diagnosis.
Additionally, a great deal of precision equipment and resources are required for skin cancer diagnosis, treatment and management and can be quite costly and are often not available at many general practices. Understandable and personal information and educational materials on skin cancer prevention, treatment and management is made available to all patients and the general community.
^ Back to top Do I need a referral?
Most of our Doctors are General Practitioners with special expertise in Skin Cancer, hence referrals are not necessary. Some doctors are specialists and do require a referral for maximum rebate from Medicare.
^ Back to topWhat happens when I arrive?
Please report to reception upon arrival. During your consultation the Doctor will examine the skin on the face, neck, legs, arms, torso, fingers, and toes and on the soles of the feet and palms of hands. For this to be conducted you will need to remove all clothing except for undergarments. Please limit or do not apply any make-up, fake-tan or nail polish on the day. Skin cancers can occur in areas which are not exposed. Please inform the Doctor if you have any hidden lesion you would like checked.
^ Back to topHow long does it take?
An appointment generally lasts around 15 minutes. Longer appointments may be required for specific procedures.
^ Back to top Is it safe? Is it painful?
A skin check is completely safe and pain free.
^ Back to topWhat will happen if something suspicious is found?
If a lesion of concern is discovered, the examining Doctor will discuss possible options with you. The doctor may recommend a biopsy of the lesion to determine a diagnosis or may recommend a treatment.
^ Back to topHow much does it cost?
Bulk billing is available for all holders of Valid Veterans, Concession, Health Care and/or Pension cards. At some clinics there is a private charge for consultations and procedures with some of this amount available for rebate when you present your receipt to Medicare. Also, the out of pocket expenses after the Medicare refund count towards your family’s Medicare Safety Net. Reciprocal Health Care Cards for overseas visitors are not recognized and these patients are charged private rates.
^ Back to topHow do I book an appointment?
Please refer to our clinic locations section to establish the clinic nearest to you and simply phone for an appointment.