If they are saying it's urgent but it may take 24 weeks to be seen, I think that's more a problem with a backlog of dermatology appointments. I wouldn't be happy about the conflicting information given, so my advice is that you ring dermatology & ask why it's taking that long to get an appointment if it's classed as urgent. If it appears to be a backlog, I suggest you ask your GP to be referred to another hospital with a shorter waiting list. Your other option is to contact PALS (Patient Liaison Service) at the hospital & see if they can look into it for you.

Hopefully the images taken showed that your mole may be precancerous (atypical/dysplastic) and that it needs checking & possibly a biopsy to confirm this. However, 24 weeks is far too long, even in these circumstances. Good luck and please let us know how you get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

If they are saying it's urgent but it may take 24 weeks to be seen, I think that's more a problem with a backlog of dermatology appointments. I wouldn't be happy about the conflicting information given, so my advice is that you ring dermatology & ask why it's taking that long to get an appointment if it's classed as urgent. If it appears to be a backlog, I suggest you ask your GP to be referred to another hospital with a shorter waiting list. Your other option is to contact PALS (Patient Liaison Service) at the hospital & see if they can look into it for you.

Hopefully the images taken showed that your mole may be precancerous (atypical/dysplastic) and that it needs checking & possibly a biopsy to confirm this. However, 24 weeks is far too long, even in these circumstances. Good luck and please let us know how you get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Thanks Angie 

I am really unhappy re this and feel very fobbed off re my health . I went to a private clinic yesterday against all my principles and awaiting a second opinion. I also asked the doctor to try and escalate given as you say it’s urgent . Hope you are doing ok and thank you 

Hi,

I'm glad you've sought a second opinion although you really shouldn't have to go privately to do it. 

I've spoken to a fellow patient who also works for NICE. This link explains the referral process, cancer pathway & how long you should wait. We know that post Covid hospitals have a backlog but 24 weeks is terrible. Recommendations organised by symptom and findings of primary care investigations | Suspected cancer: recognition and referral | Guidance | NICE

Please note that a recent addition to the guidelines says this 'Suspected cancer pathway referral' Person to receive a diagnosis or ruling out of cancer within 28 days of being referred urgently by their GP for suspected cancer. 

I hope this helps and you get seen quickly.

Thanks very much . I have now written to my health minister 

You shouldn't have to fight your corner but don't be afraid to. We have to be our own advocates sometimes x

I agree Angela and I will . Seen what being complacent and trusting has caused my family in the past . I wish you all my best and thank you