Mole Scanning: Early Detection Improves Outcomes And Saves Lives

Do you have a new or changing lesion or mole that you are worried about? Would you like to find out if this is normal? Northern Clinics is now partnering with ScreenCancer UK to offer a mole scanning service in our Craigavon and Holywood (Belfast) pharmacy clinics.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund, Myeloma Skin cancer was the fifth most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in 2019 with 17,845 new cases. [1] Early detection and intervention is vital to help fight this type of cancer and give the best possible outcomes.

ScreenCancer recommend that you should check your moles every 3-6 months and if possible take images and notes to look for any changes [2]. You can also use the ABCDE rule to check if your mole could be abnormal (see the image for more information on what types of things to look out for). If you identify a mole, unusual skin changes or a sore patch that doesn’t heal then make sure to contact a healthcare professional to discuss this.

In this blog we discuss how our new mole scanning service works and what you can expect when you visit our clinic.

What is Mole Scanning?

Our mole scanning service is a painless, simple and non-invasive procedure that uses Screen Cancer’s gold standard technology. One of our pharmacists will capture two images of your lesion or mole. The first image is a clinical image which is taken from a distance. This shows the Dermatology consultants/specialists the size of the lesion as it’s visible to the naked eye. For the second image the pharmacist will use a special camera to take a Dermatascopic image. This is a magnified image of the lesion that allows the consultant/specialist to view the lesion very close up and in more detail than a standard image.

During the appointment the pharmacist will also ask you some questions about your skin, previous sun exposure and any direct history of the lesion to share with the dermatologist/specialist. For example, the pharmacist will ask you about any changes you have noticed in the lesion and how long it has been there for. You will also be asked to complete a consent form to allow your information and images to be shared with ScreenCancer for review.

Who looks at my mole or lesion?

All images taken by the pharmacist using the special camera will be securely sent to Dermatology consultants/specialists that work alongside ScreenCancer. They will access the information and images through a secure cloud-based website called the Navigator. All images and information will be reviewed closely and the Dermatology consultants/ specialists will create a bespoke report for you to keep. This report will include a detailed analysis of the lesion and other sun safety tips.

How will I receive my report?

Once the Dermatology consultant/specialist has accessed and written a report for you, then the ScreenCancer Healthcare Advisors will send out your reports via SMS or post (depending on your preferences). If ScreenCancer feel there is something that needs to be explained to you before they send out the report, they will give you a call and explain it over the phone and answer any questions you may have. Your results will be back to you within 14 days!

Your personal report can be accessed via a secure link and an access code that you will be provided within the text message sent to you by ScreenCancer. The pharmacy will also provide you with a consultation number that you will need to enter to get access to your report.

How can I book an appointment?

If you have any questions about our mole scanning service then please don’t hesitate to give us a call. You can book an appointment slot on our website and one of our team members will be in touch to confirm this. We look forward to welcoming you into Northern Clinics soon.