Question about Dermatologist/patient care?

[Jenn Lynn]

When I went to the Gynocologist 2 weeks ago she recommeded getting some moles looked at that were on my back. She said they were irregular.

So today I had an appointment with the Dermatologist. I showed her my back and she said there were 3 that should be taken off, which she did.

Now my question is, if a Doctor saw that you had 3 irregular moles on your back alone, shouldn't they want to look at the rest of your body? And check out the rest of your moles? She did not even suggest it. She seemed really rushed, kind of like get in and get out. I was a new patient and she didn't even ask family history (although I told her eventually). I guess I should have asked her to look at all of them myself, but I was so nervous (I HATE needles) that I forgot.

It just really turned me off. So I was just wondering if I am overreacting. I guess I just expected a little more time and patient care.

 

[Dan Murphy]

You are 100% correct, Jenn. And I would most definitely get rechecked, probably elsewhere. My best.

 

[DawnCt]

Good dermatological care involves mapping all of the molds that you have. It sounds like she was "rushed". That would be forgivable if she said, "I am removing these suspicious molds today but I want you to return so I can do a very thorough examination and review the completed family history that you provided". Since she didn't do that, I would look for another dermatologist. If you live in our area though, you can expect to wait 8 weeks for an appointment. That's the bad news.

 

[caitycaity]

yes, go get rechecked, and you should also start doing self-exams so you can notice any changes. the first time you get checked (and even subsequent visits) involve looking at moles EVERYWHERE (scalp, and also mor private parts). my melanoma was on my head -- i never would have even known about it if not for the dermatologist.

unfortunately, like dawn said, you will probably have to wait for a long time to get an appointment. i have a history of skin cancer and i recently found a suspicious new mole on the bottom of my foot. the earliest they could get me in was 3 weeks.

 

[pw2pp]

Yes, I think that you should definitely find a different Dermatologist. You are right, since you had at least 3 irregular Moles, there is a possibility you could have more.
That Doctor was not treating the "Whole" person like she should have done.
Good luck to you.

 

[Jenn Lynn]

Thanks Guys! That's what I thought.

I talked to my Mom about it also. (She is the one I get all my irregular moles from-no family history of cancer though.) She told me the same thing Dawn did about them charting your moles and keeping track.

I definitely want someone who will take the time to examine me and that I am comfortable with for the long run because I will be seeing this person yearly. Plus DD and DH have some skin problems and I can see her freaking out DD! LOL!

So I will ask around for referals and make another apppointment with someone else.