Hi,

Dermatology are very behind with appointments but 8 months seems a stretch, especially with your melanoma history. If it was me, I would ring dermatology and ask if they are aware of your history? Ask, if you were happy to take a cancellation appointment, would it get you seen any quicker? If not, consider a private appointment but be aware that private consultants are also running behind, although nothing like 8 months!

Good luck and please let us know how you get on.

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

I'd get a private consult. Money well spent. Probably just be about £150 to have specialist check you out. Good luck ️

Thanks very much Angie, that's kind of what I was thinking. 
I'll post an update when I get some answers.

Kind regards

Thanks Fluffybull, much appreciated. 
Just as an update, I called the hospital and they were very helpful. Apparently a letter has been sent which explains the outcome of the 'triage' and the reasons for the appointment to be downgraded to routine - even after the melanoma history. I'll wait until I receive it, then make a decision. In the meantime, if the spot gets any bigger I've to go back to the GP and be placed on their 2 week fast track referral system. They apologised routine appointments are so far in advance, all due sadly to the ongoing NHS delays. Thanks again, this forum certainly helps reduce the anxiety! :wink:

That's good! Please let us know how you get on! ️

In that case, if it's worrying you and you'd rather get it checked quicker, I would pay for a private consultation. Good luck and please let us know how you get on xx