In this week's 'How It Works' Jackie Bender is learning what's involved in a skin check with your doctor, and what you should be doing to prepare for these types of appointments.
I wasn’t aware that they checked you all over. I went to the Mayo Clinic for another reason and I asked for a skin check because skin cancer runs in my family. The doctor told me, I needed to tell him what did I notice that looked odd. I stated I didn’t know what skin cancer looked like? I could not see my back either. I asked if he was suppose to check all my skin? He stated no. I was to tell him. I am so glad I saw this video. I went several years thinking everything is fine. I better get checked.
A good dermatologist will. If your dermatologist does not, find another one or ask before the skin check to have EVERY inch of skin checked. Honestly, it almost feels like dermatologists are more embarrassed than their patients, yet their job is to examine skin and that covers 100% of the body.
For men always ask for a male dermatologist if that makes you more comfortable also refuse to have a third person in the room. The dermatologist will bark at that request saying they need to have the visit documented don’t fall for this. They can document on a smart phone. ( don’t let them strip you down. )
