After having snow in March, it looks like summer may be on the horizon. As the weather starts to warm up and the sun shines brighter, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors. However, with increased exposure to the sun we need to keep in mind the need to look after our skin.
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK, affecting people of all ages and skin types. According to Cancer Research UK, around 16,000 new cases of melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK alone [A], with many more cases of non-melanoma skin cancers also being reported.
The importance of early detection for Skin Cancer
Early detection of skin cancer is crucial because it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. When skin cancer is caught and diagnosed early, it is often easier to treat and can be removed with minor surgery or other non-invasive methods. This can help to prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body, where it may be much more difficult to treat.
Regular skin checks and seeking medical attention for any concerning changes in the skin can help to ensure that skin cancer is caught early, allowing for prompt treatment and a better chance of recovery.
To ensure our skin is healthy and free from cancer, monitoring any moles or growths and getting them checked regularly by a healthcare professional is crucial.
However, visiting a clinic or hospital for a mole check-up may not always be possible or convenient. This is where remote mole scanning and assessment services, such as Bupa's, can provide an innovative solution.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Bupa's remote skin assessment benefit is an online service that enables members to have their moles assessed remotely by a dermatologist, using advanced technology to capture high-quality images of the mole and then send them to a dermatologist for review.
The process is simple. After contacting Bupa, the member receives a smartphone with a dermoscopy lens in the post within 24 hours. The patient then takes a photo of their mole using the smartphone following clear instructions provided by Bupa. Once the photo is taken, the member uploads it to Bupa's online platform. An AI algorithm analyses the mole's features to determine the likelihood of it being cancerous. If the AI algorithm detects that the mole requires further assessment, the image is sent to a dermatologist for thorough evaluation.
A Convenient Option for Early Melanoma Detection
There are several benefits to using Bupa's remote skin assessment service, including early detection, quick diagnosis, and convenience.
Early detection is one of the key benefits, as catching potential issues early can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Quick diagnosis is another benefit, as patients can receive their report within 48 hours of submitting their images. This can help reduce the stress and anxiety that often comes with waiting for a diagnosis.
Additionally, Bupa's remote skin assessment service is incredibly convenient for patients, as it allows them to get their moles checked from their homes, unlike traditional in-person assessments. We like to think of it as Armchair Healthcare.
How ECIS can help
Skin health is essential to our overall health and well-being, and taking care of our skin should be a priority. If you're an ECIS scheme member and are worried about a mole or skin lesion, you can call Bupa's dermatology team, who can organize a remote skin assessment. Remember that early detection and quick diagnosis can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
If you are considering a private medical insurance policy for your employees or would like ECIS to review your current healthcare arrangement, speak to the ECIS team on 0330 221 0241, visit us at www.ecins.co.uk or email us at ecis@ecins.co.uk.
[A] https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/melanoma-skin-cancer