Hi Megan and welcome to the forum.

Unfortunately due to the impact of the pandemic and many NHS hospitals working through backlogs, the wait for for an urgent referral in some parts of the country is still taking slightly longer than usual but I'll have my fingers crossed you won't be impacted too much by this and that your appointment will come through soon.

Many of our members have been through this process so I'm sure some of them will share their experiences with you when they can but in the meantime, if you'd like to discuss any of this with one of our cancer nurses, you can do so on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful, and will do all they can to answer your questions and put your mind at ease.

I hope some of the tips and advice given in this article will help to keep your nerves at bay whilst you wait as well.

Waiting for appointments and results is never easy but we are here for you Megan, and sending all our support your way. 

Kind regards,

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi Megan,

As Steph mentions, there is a slight delay at many hospitals due to backlogs etc. The urgent referral is a 2 week referral and, if your hospital doesn't have a backlog, you should receive an appointment within 2 weeks. Those with a backlog are tending to send a letter out within the 2 weeks but with an appointment date outside the 2 weeks but most dermatology departments are managing to see patients within 4 weeks from seeing the GP. I hope this helps.

I know how worrying it is when your loved one has cancer & you don't want to burden them with your anxiety. I hope you have someone you can confide in so it helps you without you feeling the need to talk to your mother about it. 75% of patients referred to dermatology are eventually given a clean bill of health - the mole was either benign or dysplastic (precancerous) so there is a very good chance yours may be fine. In the event it's found to be malignant, there is still a very high chance it's been caught early and can be treated successfully so try not to think the worst. 

Hopefully you won't be waiting too long to be seen & good luck. Please let us know how you get on,

Angie, Stage 3 melanoma patent since 2009