Cochise Oncology

Share This Post

How Long Do Skin Cancer Screenings Take?

Since skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, screenings aren’t a step you should skip. Cochise Oncology performs skin cancer screenings to catch early signs of skin cancer when the condition is most treatable.

What is a Skin Cancer Screening?

Skin cancer screening is a process of examining the skin to detect any signs of skin cancer. It involves thoroughly examining the skin, including the scalp, face, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs, feet, and nails.

During the appointment, your Cochise Oncology provider may also ask questions about your medical history, including any previous skin cancer diagnoses or treatments and any family history of skin cancer. A skin cancer screening aims to detect any potential skin cancer early on when it is most treatable. If any suspicious lesions or growths are detected during the screening, we may perform a biopsy to determine whether they are cancerous.

What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening

During a skin cancer screening at Cochise Oncology, you can tell your doctor about any skin concerns, and they will pay special attention to these. You’ll be asked to undress and given a gown or drape to cover yourself with, while the healthcare professional examines your skin from head to toe. We ask that you arrive at the appointment with clean skin and no makeup so your provider can effectively examine your skin.

Your doctor will carefully examine any moles, freckles, or other spots on your skin, looking for signs of skin cancer. They may use a dermatoscope, a special magnifying instrument, to get a closer look at any suspicious spots. This process typically takes 15 minutes, and your whole appointment will likely take an hour or less.

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

During a skin cancer screening, your doctor looks for several possible skin cancer signs. Potential signs of basal or squamous cell carcinoma include:

Red, discolored, or pearl-colored bumps
Skin that is flaking, crusty, or itchy
Sensitive or irritated skin
A sore that keeps coming back

Your provider will also check any moles for signs of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. They will look for moles that are asymmetrical, multicolored, have uneven borders, or have grown larger.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Often Should I Get Skin Cancer Screenings?

Skin cancer is the most common type but is very treatable if caught early on, so it’s especially important to watch for symptoms. The most effective way to catch skin cancer is with regular screenings. We recommend yearly skin cancer screenings for anyone over the age of 35. If you are at a higher risk of skin cancer due to fair skin or family history, you may want to start annual screenings earlier.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Do you have questions about skin cancer screenings? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page.