Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 3 replies
  • Views 144 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Private Dermatologist rather than NHS

KTS1
Offline

Hi

i have been referred on the two week urgent referral for a potential skin cancer, however in my areas the dermatologist unit is so delayed I still haven’t seen anyone after 3 weeks.

this week I decided to have a private appointment and they have told me that the lession  needs a biopsy which they can do next week. And I will get the results in 3 weeks. 

I have concerns if this will effect any NHS treatment that I may need following the biopsy, as I won’t be able to self fund cancer treatment if required, has anyone else done this or should I stick with the wait on the NHS referral system 

just worried as the lession is getting larger and not sure how much longer I can wait for treatment 

thanks for any advise 

Parents

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    It must be very frustrating to have expected an appointment within two weeks and then find out that you need to wait longer. Many people find this period of uncertainty the hardest part, as it can feel as though everything is on hold and out of their control. It is therefore not surprising that you are feeling worried.

    When you pay for a private biopsy, it should not stop you getting NHS treatment later if needed. Many people have private tests to get answers more quickly and then return to the NHS for any surgery, treatment, or follow-up care they need.

    As your lesion is getting bigger, having the biopsy done privately could help you get a diagnosis sooner. If you go ahead, make sure you get copies of the dermatologist's report, biopsy results, and any treatment notes. These can be shared with your GP and NHS dermatology team.

    I hope everything goes okay. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

Reply

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    It must be very frustrating to have expected an appointment within two weeks and then find out that you need to wait longer. Many people find this period of uncertainty the hardest part, as it can feel as though everything is on hold and out of their control. It is therefore not surprising that you are feeling worried.

    When you pay for a private biopsy, it should not stop you getting NHS treatment later if needed. Many people have private tests to get answers more quickly and then return to the NHS for any surgery, treatment, or follow-up care they need.

    As your lesion is getting bigger, having the biopsy done privately could help you get a diagnosis sooner. If you go ahead, make sure you get copies of the dermatologist's report, biopsy results, and any treatment notes. These can be shared with your GP and NHS dermatology team.

    I hope everything goes okay. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

Children
No Data

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.