Hi MagsMount25 and thank you for your post.

I'm sorry to read about your situation. It does sound like this is a difficult time for you. I appreciate waiting any length of time to be treated is very stressful. 

Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are the most common type of skin cancer that typically grow very slowly, rarely spread to another part of the body, and are rarely serious. Even infiltrating nodular BCC rarely spreads, but it can grow deeper into the skin layers. Most people will only need surgery as their primary treatment.

Treatment to remove a BCC isn't regarded as urgent, and people often have to wait several months for treatment. You can read more about referrals to a skin cancer specialist on our website.

In the meantime, all I can suggest is that you talk about your concerns with your GP. Hopefully, they will be able to reassure you that BCCs generally take years to develop in most people. So, waiting a few months is unlikely to do any harm.

Many individuals choose to seek a second opinion from another dermatologist to ensure they have explored all possible options. Alternatively, they may seek a referral to another hospital that has a shorter waiting list. However, it is important to note that most dermatology departments are among the busiest within the NHS.

 There is always the option of going private. I'm afraid I don't know how much it would cost. But in most hospitals now, there is a Private Patient's Officer who may be able to advise on this further. The Private Health website has information about private hospitals in the UK and may also be able to give you some ideas.

It's understandable to feel anxious during this time. We often recommend visiting the NHS Every Mind Matters website or Anxiety UK for tips on how to cope while you wait for treatment.

I hope this information is useful, and you receive treatment soon.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards

Tina