With melanoma rates in the Mallee concerningly high, Mildura Health Private Hospital (MHPH) is supporting a new collaborative approach to providing comprehensive skin health care services.
The partnership with Your Skin Scan Pty Ltd and underpinned by a longstanding relationship with plastic surgeons from Niche Plastic Surgery, aims to increase local access to early detection and treatment of skin cancer, which is crucial for better outcomes.
Chief Executive of MHPH, Mr. Marcus Guthrie says the partnership aligns with the hospital’s commitment to improving local access to quality health care services. “We are proud to support this essential service for our community, because we know it will have a significant impact, making it easier for people to have regular skin checks and dermatological care.”
Clinical Nurse Consultant and Chief Executive of Your Skin Scan, Ms. Sharon Hudson, says the service prides itself on minimal appointment wait times and as a Master’s qualified Nurse Practitioner, she can diagnose, prescribe and often treat, on the day of the consultation.
“Your Skin Scan has been servicing rural and regional communities, performing annual skin checks using a dermatoscope, since 2019. In that time, many patients have seen the benefit, with the early detection of skin cancer and melanoma, and prompt treatment, leading to better health outcomes.
“This is a quality health service that this region needs and deserves.”
Mr. Jonathan Burge, a Plastic Surgeon operating out of Mildura Health Private Hospital, says the integration of Your Skin Scan in Mildura’s health care landscape will bolster support in the management of patients with skin cancer.
“Having a model of care where there is a well-formed and trusted relationship between the plastic surgeon, GP, nurse skin specialist and cancer treatment centre is an absolute necessity. “Having an open line of communication, care and input is not only imperative for the treating team but a critical component of the complete care package for the patient.”
With the recently redeveloped theatres, MHPH offers an extensive range of surgery options, and while some more complex cases, may require treatment in Melbourne, Mr. Burge says there is a lot that can be delivered in Mildura.
“As a specialty, Niche Plastic Surgery have an outpatient consulting service onsite at Mildura Health Private Hospital and we can perform a wide range of surgery in MHPH’s operating theatres.
“If a patient does require treatment in Melbourne, then we can follow up locally in Mildura.” Mr. Guthrie said the hospital is seeing a steady rise in the number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer and the relationship between Your Skin Scan, plastic surgeons and the hospital will assist in addressing the demand.
“Skin cancer is increasingly common across northwest Victoria and far west New South Wales. Providing early detection and prompt treatment will not only improve patient outcomes but also reduce the financial and emotional burden often linked to travelling for health care.”
