What is a Spot Check?
If you have multiple areas of concern, a full-body skin cancer consultation is always the best choice. But if there’s just one mole or lesion worrying you, a Spot Check at Skin Institute is the quickest way to get clarity and peace of mind.
A Spot Check is a focused, high-precision examination of a single area using dermoscopy. It helps determine whether the lesion is harmless, needs ongoing monitoring or requires a biopsy, providing you with clear guidance and reassurance.
Important Booking & Insurance Information
When you book a spot check at Skin Institute, these are the things to keep in mind:
- The appointment is for the examination of one mole or lesion that you have identified before your visit
- You must be able to point out the specific area to your Nurse Dermoscopist
- Early detection supports better management outcomes
- Not all Skin Institute clinics offer this service
- Spot Checks performed by a Nurse Dermoscopist are not covered by Southern Cross.
When is it recommended
You should consider a Spot Check if you notice a mole or lesion showing any of the following signs:
- Asymmetry: two halves of the mole are different from one another.
- Border: the edges of the mole are poorly defined. It is ragged, notched, blurred or an irregular shape.
- Colour: the colour is uneven with shades of black, brown and tan. Melanomas may also be white, grey, red, pink or blue.
- Different: from other lesions (ugly duckling) there is a change, particularly an increase in size.
- Evolving: changing over time.
Prior to your appointment, you must have identified the one mole or spot you would like checked.
Treatment Options
If the spot is identified as a possible skin cancer, your Nurse Dermoscopist will discuss the next steps with you.
Your Nurse Dermoscopist may undertake a biopsy or cryotherapy and, in many cases, this can be done at the clinic at the time of your consultation.
If more advanced treatment or surgery is required, you will be referred to one of our Skin Cancer Doctors or a specialist surgeon.
Cost
1 mole or spot checked by a Nurse Dermoscopist
$59
FAQ
- Can I have two moles checked during a Spot Check?
- No. This appointment is specifically timed and priced for the examination of one single lesion only. If you have multiple moles of concern or general worry about your skin, please book a Full Skin Cancer Consultation.
- Is a Spot Check covered by health insurance?
- Generally, no. Spot Checks performed by Nurse Dermoscopists are typically not covered by Southern Cross or other providers. This is designed as an accessible, lower-cost "self-pay" service.
- What if the Nurse thinks the spot is cancer?
- If your Nurse Dermoscopist identifies the spot as suspicious, they will discuss the next steps. This may include performing a biopsy immediately (additional costs apply) or referring you to a Skin Cancer Doctor for excision.
- Can I book a Spot Check if I don't have a specific mole in mind?
- No. You must be able to point out the specific spot you are worried about. If you just want a general check-up "to be safe," a Full Body Consultation is the correct service.
- How long does the appointment take?
- Spot Checks are quick and focused, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes.
