If your primary care physician (PCP) is no longer doing a skin check as part of your annual physical examination, you are not alone. There has been a shift from having a skin check from your primary care physician (PCP) to having to seek care from a skin specialist. This change is attributed to several factors.
Why PCPs are passing on skin checks
- Time Constraints. With the increasing demands of primary care, PCPs often face time constraints during appointments. Conducting a thorough skin examination may take additional time, leading to prioritization of other health concerns during annual physicals.
- Limited Expertise. While PCPs possess foundational knowledge in various areas of medicine, they may lack specialized training and expertise in dermatology to do a thorough annual skin check. Skin specialists have the training to identify subtle or early signs of skin cancer and other dermatological conditions.
- Scope of Practice. PCPs address a wide range of health issues during routine visits, therefore, limiting the depth of examination in specific areas such as dermatology. They may opt to refer patients to dermatologists for specialized care and thorough skin evaluations.
Why patients should see a skin specialist
- Expert Diagnosis and Treatment. Skin specialists are focused on diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including skin cancer. Their advanced training and experience equip them with the knowledge to identify and manage various dermatological concerns effectively.
- Comprehensive Skin Examinations. Dermatologists conduct thorough skin examinations, utilizing specialized tools and techniques to assess moles, lesions, and other abnormalities. Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes.
- Tailored Treatment Plans. Dermatologists develop personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and long-term skin health.
Some patients may delay making an additional appointment with a skin specialist. This could be due to long appointment wait times or additional costs. Dr. Novikov Wellness and Skin Care can typically schedule your appointment within a week of your request and offers out-of-pocket pay options. Read why you should be our next patient.
While PCPs play a vital role in primary care, the expertise of dermatologists is invaluable when it comes to comprehensive skin evaluations and management of skin conditions. Patients should prioritize regular visits to skin specialists for thorough skin checks and personalized care, ensuring early detection of issues and effective treatment of concerns.