Cancer Research UK main site

Dermatology wait times - changing trust?

MB45
Offline

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! 

  • Offline

    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

  • Offline in reply to Tony82

    Thanks very much for the info Tony. Glad to hear things have gone well for you, wishing you all the best! 

  • Offline

    Hi,

    Unfortunately this is currently standard in the UK. Some hospitals are taking longer than others so the wait can be anything from 6 to 8 weeks for a biopsy excision. A lack of dermatologists, haematologists, the Covid backlog and more people seeking medical assessment due to worrying lesions is causing these delays. Even private consultations/surgery is taking a long time. All I can suggest, if you haven't already done so, is to tell the hospital that you are happy to take a cancellation if one comes up (if you are able to drop everything at short notice). 

    Good luck & I hope all goes well. Please let us know how you get on,

    Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

  • Offline in reply to AngieT

    Thanks so much for your reply Angie! I had asked about cancellations and actually got a call this morning offering one, which brings my appointment forward by almost four weeks - feeling very lucky! 

  • Offline in reply to MB45

    That's good to hear. Not too long to wait now & hopefully the results will bring good news.

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.