Urgent Referral for Unusual Mole

I recently found a mole which has become itchy, crusty raised and generally uncomfortable. It's also developed different colours. I went to see my GP who has sent an urgent referral to Dermatology. How long does a referral take in todays world?

Also I'm terrified that it will be cancer, my mother had breast cancer and she had a gene which caused the cancer, I am also waiting for an appointment for genetic testing.

I know it's normal to be scared, but I don't want to put my mother through someone else having cancer. It keeps me awake at night worrying, I know people say that you shouldn't worry until you know something, but how can I not?

Parents
  • 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

Reply
  • 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

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