Most skin cancers are found by looking. A skin cancer screening in Springville, UT is a careful, head-to-toe check of your skin by a dermatology provider who looks at moles, spots and growths every day.
It is quick, there is no blood work, and you leave knowing whether anything needs a closer look. In a state that ranks among the highest for melanoma, it is one of the simplest things you can do for your health.
When You Need a Skin Cancer Screening
A screening is a smart idea if you have a lot of moles, a history of sunburns, fair skin that burns easily, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or years of outdoor work or recreation. It is also the right call any time you notice a new spot, or one that is changing.
The ABCDE warning signs are a good guide for moles: Asymmetry, an uneven Border, more than one Color, a Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving size, shape or color. Sores that will not heal, shiny bumps and rough, scaly patches are worth showing a provider too.
Utah’s altitude means more UV than at sea level, and our outdoor lifestyle adds up over a lifetime. Regular checks catch problems while they are small.
Our Skin Cancer Screening Process
You change into a gown, and your provider examines your skin from your scalp to the soles of your feet, including areas you can’t easily see, like your back. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a full-body exam whenever possible. Spots that look different get a closer look with a lighted magnifier called a dermatoscope.
A basic check takes only a few minutes. A first, more thorough exam takes longer. If your provider finds a spot that could be skin cancer, they can take a small biopsy, often at the same visit. The sample is read by a board-certified dermatopathologist in our own lab, and we contact you with the result.
Your provider will also suggest how often you should be checked, based on your history and risk.
Between visits, check your own skin once a month in good light, using a hand mirror for your back. Take photos of any spot you are watching so you can compare over time, and bring them to your next visit.
Skin Cancer Screening Cost in Springville
A skin exam is usually billed to health insurance as an office visit, and any biopsy is billed separately. Your cost depends on your plan. Our front desk can help you check your coverage before your appointment.
Why Choose Us
Your screening is done by a practice led by Dr. Michael Peterson, who is board-certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology, so the doctor who reads biopsy slides works inside the practice. We offer same-day appointments in Springville and at our offices in Provo, Tooele and St. George. Daily Herald readers voted us first in the Best of Utah Valley from 2019 through 2023.
Skin cancer screening is the first step in our skin cancer and surgical dermatology care in Springville.