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Skin cancer screenings remain important

Putting them off during pandemic has consequences

Posted 5/8/21

As a colon cancer survivor with asthma and high-blood pressure, A new Sun City Dermatology patient knew he was in a high risk group for COVID-19.

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Business

Skin cancer screenings remain important

Putting them off during pandemic has consequences

Posted

As a colon cancer survivor with asthma and high-blood pressure, A new Sun City Dermatology patient knew he was in a high risk group for COVID-19.

His son had even quit his job as a front line worker to ensure he didn’t bring the virus home. Although the patient watched as three skin cancers grew on his scalp during the pandemic, he did not want to see a doctor until he was vaccinated. He has had eight different skin cancer surgeries in the past.

When his long-time dermatologist left the Valley he felt abandoned. That is when his insurance company recommended that he see Sarah Neumann, PA, founder of Sun City Dermatology, 13843 W. Meeker Blvd., Suite 101, Sun City West.

Within two weeks of his second vaccination he had an appointment at the practice. He knew I needed to address the issue as soon as possible.

“Skin cancer is a big deal in Arizona. One in three Arizonans will be afflicted with skin cancer in their lifetime,” Ms. Neumann stated in a press release. “While we have remained open since the COVID closures were first announced, we know that many people are still avoiding going to their doctor for their annual skin cancer screening.”

Not having that suspicious spot checked, however, can have very real, very dangerous, consequences, she added. Ms. Neumann has been a practicing dermatology PA for more than 20 years.

Sun City Dermatology employs Mohs surgeons who provide state-of-the-art care for skin cancer patients and has a dermatologic surgeon on staff to treat other types of cases. The practice also provides general dermatology and cosmetic services.

When the pandemic hit in early 2020, the office immediately implemented safety measures following Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines so they could continue to treat patients with melanoma and other disorders of the skin, hair and nails.

“We have worked around the clock to create the safest environment possible for our patients and staff,” Cory Worischeck, operations director, stated in the press release. 

Convenient online telehealth appointments were also made available for anyone still worried about the safety of in-office exams.

“Virtual office visits are popular, and some patients have even sent us their photos. Images are helpful, but they will never replace a physical exam. With COVID vaccinations underway and other measures in place, there are fewer excuses to not get screened,” Ms. Neumann stated.

She advises everyone to look out for new moles or lesions that have been around for 6-8 weeks or more, moles that were once round and are now oddly shaped, or if they observe changes in color in suspicious areas.

“If you notice any of these things, she says that you should get seen by a health care provider immediately,” Ms. Neumann stated.

SCD offers skin cancer treatment choices that are dependent upon the type of cancer diagnosed, including the depth of the cancer, the size and location, and the overall health and well-being of the patient.

Ms. Neumann is also the Ahwatukee Skin & Laser founder, an award-winning full-service dermatology practice located in Phoenix. Skin cancer screenings are available at both locations.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with an estimated one in five Americans developing it at some point in their lives.

Ms. Neumann urges patients and their families to schedule their annual skin cancer screenings.

“Please get your exam — there is no time to waste,” she stated. 

Visit suncitydermaz.com or call 623-377-7546.