As we age, our risk of developing skin cancer rises. By age 65, roughly 1 in 3 people will deal with some form of this common disease. Fortunately, when caught early, skin cancer is very treatable. Having the right dermatologist and cancer care team is key for those over 60.
Skin checks and screening should become part of your regular health routine. Any concerning spots or changes deserve prompt attention to determine if a biopsy is needed. Partnering with experienced skin cancer practitioners like Sundoctors you trust means treatment can begin quickly if cancer cells are detected.
Finding where to get exceptional skin cancer care should rank high on your health to-do list. Use this guide to help choose quality practitioners focused on safeguarding your skin health in the decades ahead.
Ask Your Doctor for Referrals
Your primary doctor likely works alongside or knows reputable dermatologists that specialize in skin cancer. Ask them to share their list of recommendations so you can research further. This can help narrow your search to begin with.
Research Their Experience
Once you have a few clinic names, vet the experience level of doctors. Those with 10-30 years focused on skin cancer tend to have strong diagnostic skills and knowledge of varying treatment options for different types/stages of disease. Highly experienced teams provide wise counsel each step of the way.
Look for Cutting Edge Technology
Advancements in dermoscopy, imaging tests, pathology assessments and AI allow specialists to detect cancer earlier, while it is most treatable. State-of-the-art tools like MRI and lymph node mapping guide precision surgery as well. Make sure your providers routinely upgrade to the latest technology.
Consider Access to Clinical Trials
Research hospitals and universities often run clinical trials, giving access to breakthrough medicine not yet widely available. If your cancer is advanced or treatments start failing, having medical experts connected to these resources could expand your care choices.
Check Certifications and Hospital Privileges
Board certified dermatologists and surgeons specializing in Mohs surgery and reconstructive techniques indicate proper training and expertise. Look for clinic doctors granted privileges at highly ranked local hospitals as well. This demonstrates their reputation across the healthcare community.
Schedule a Consultation Visit
Once you narrow your choice to 2-3 clinic options, schedule consult visits to meet doctors and get a feel for the office environment and staff helpfulness. Bring along a written list of questions too. Getting a sense of personalized care early on can guide your decision.
Review Ratings of Patient Satisfaction
Patient review websites allow you to filter by age and condition to see feedback from those similar to you. Higher overall and bedside manner ratings let you preview how compassionately other 60+ patients felt treated while under a clinic’s care.
Conclusion
Caring for your skin health now pays dividends later as you age. Finding an expert dermatology clinic you trust means reliable preventative screenings and rapid response if cancer is detected. Use this guide as your checklist before committing to a team focused on safeguarding your skin health in the decades ahead. Your peace of mind and optimal outcome is worth the effort to research and choose right.
