How often should I have a skin check?

There is no single interval suitable for everyone. Your GP can discuss an approach based on your individual risk factors, history and examination findings.

At what age should skin checks begin?

Assessment should be based on individual concern and risk rather than age alone. A person of any age should seek advice about a new, changing or concerning lesion.

Does a skin check prevent skin cancer?

A skin check is an assessment intended to identify lesions that may need monitoring, investigation or treatment. It does not itself prevent skin cancer and cannot guarantee detection of every lesion.

Bring information about previous skin cancers, biopsies, pathology results, family history and any photographs showing change over time if available.

Will I need a biopsy or procedure?

Not necessarily. If a lesion requires further assessment, your GP will discuss the available options, potential risks, costs and whether referral is appropriate.

What does a skin check cost?

A private consultation fee applies and a Medicare rebate may be available if eligible. Ask reception about current fees and possible additional costs.

Skin Checks

A Vital Step in Protecting Your Health

Professional Skin Checks for Early Detection

Your skin tells an important story about your health, and regular checks can play an important role in early detection. At Family Health Clinic Malvern, a professional skin check may be recommended at least once a year, particularly for those at higher risk. While the choice is yours, this simple step may help identify concerns earlier.

The GPs at Family Health Clinic Malvern provide thorough, confidential assessments and openly discuss all management options with you. We listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and aim to ensure you feel supported throughout the process. Protecting your skin means protecting your future.

Skin checks can also form part of regular health assessments to support preventive healthcare. Book your annual skin check today and take control of your health with confidence.

What to Expect

Make an Appointment

Book an appointment that works for you.

Talk to Us

Discuss your health concerns with your GP.

Make a Plan

Your GP may develop a management plan and discuss suitable care options.

Follow Up

Follow-up consultations may help review progress and adjust your plan where needed.

Seek help today. Make an appointment to speak to us.

Comprehensive Skin Care & Checks

At Family Health Clinic Malvern, we provide professional skin checks for patients in Malvern and the surrounding Melbourne suburbs. We recognise that regular skin checks can be important for early detection and prevention of serious skin conditions, including skin cancer. GPs provide thorough assessments in a comfortable, confidential setting and may discuss any findings openly with you.

For patients at higher risk, annual checks may be recommended, while others may consider checks approximately every five years, or as advised by their GP. An initial skin check not only establishes a benchmark for future monitoring but also may help you learn to perform self-checks confidently at home. If you are travelling to areas with high sun exposure, our Travel Advice & Immunisation consultations may help you prepare.

Beyond cancer screening, we also manage a wide range of skin concerns from eczema and psoriasis to acne and chronic dermatological conditions in collaboration with dermatologists when specialist care is required. This shared-care approach helps support comprehensive, personalised care tailored to your needs. Your skin health matters, and we’re here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way. Patients managing ongoing conditions may also benefit from Chronic Disease Management consultations.

Common Skin Concerns GPs May Assess

During a skin check, a GP may examine a range of skin changes and conditions, including:

Suspicious moles or spots
Changing skin lesions
Skin cancer screening, including melanoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
Sun-damaged skin
Acne and other inflammatory skin conditions
Eczema and dermatitis
Psoriasis and other chronic skin conditions

If any areas of concern are identified, your GP may discuss appropriate next steps, which could include monitoring the area, arranging further testing, or referring you to a specialist if required.

Book Online Today

We encourage adults to book a skin check at least once every 5 years, or more often if advised. Not only does an initial skin check provide an important benchmark for future skin checks, but you may also receive guidance on ways to self-check your body with the aim of skin disease prevention.

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Our Practitioners

General Practitioner | Founder

General Practitioner

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do skin checks cost in Melbourne?

An initial skin check can be performed by an experienced GP and may involve minimal or no out-of-pocket costs depending on eligibility. Feel free to ask our receptionist about the current price for an initial skin check.

At what age should you get a skin check?

It is recommended that men and women over 40 undergo a skin check. Of course, if you have any areas of concern on your skin, a consultation at any age or stage is recommended.

Is a skin check covered by insurance?

Some GPs charge a standard consultation fee for a skin check. Private health insurance will be more helpful if specialist dermatology is needed.

Are skin checks recommended?

Given the extreme UV exposure in Australia, skin checks may be recommended for adults at least once every 5 years.

What is involved in a skin check?

As the name suggests, a skin check involves a visual assessment of your skin using a handheld microscope to check for any obvious abnormalities. GP skin checks involve scanning areas of your skin that are usually covered as well. If there are spots that look different in colour, size, or pigmentation, a GP may request a biopsy or refer you to a skin specialist.