Dermatology wait times - changing trust?

Hello! 

Wondering if other people would be able to share their experiences of NHS dermatology wait times?

I was referred by a GP for abnormal mole/suspected melanoma and seen by a dermatologist for initial consultation within 2 weeks. Based on the 28 day/Faster Diagnosis Standard I expected my excision to be very soon after that appointment. 

I've just been given my appointment for my excision, on 7th of July - that means I'll have waited 61 days from referral to excision, and based on what they've predicted will probably reach 80 days before I get test results/diagnosis. 

I was wondering whether this is pretty much standard across the NHS at the moment? I understand there's nothing else the hospital can do as there are other people waiting, but was wondering - if this wait is out of the ordinary - if I could request to change trusts on that basis? 

Any experience or advice very much appreciated! 

Parents
  • Hi MB45

    I had a mole checked and it was suspected melonoma.  A biopsy was done within a couple weeks which confirmed it. The excision was about 4 to 5 weeks later.  I believe this is fairly normal but can be quite a while longer.. This has happened twice to me as I had a lump appear close to the original mole which they called a satellite. This all started a couple of years ago and so far there has been no spread. I am also undergoing immunotherapy to hopefully prevent any spread. So far so good. Let me know how you get on.

    Tony 82

Reply
  • Hi MB45

    I had a mole checked and it was suspected melonoma.  A biopsy was done within a couple weeks which confirmed it. The excision was about 4 to 5 weeks later.  I believe this is fairly normal but can be quite a while longer.. This has happened twice to me as I had a lump appear close to the original mole which they called a satellite. This all started a couple of years ago and so far there has been no spread. I am also undergoing immunotherapy to hopefully prevent any spread. So far so good. Let me know how you get on.

    Tony 82

Children