How Much Does a Skin Cancer Screening Cost?

How Much Does a Skin Cancer Screening Cost?

Most health insurance plans treat a skin cancer screening just like your other yearly screenings. Although there are exceptions, most insurance plans will cover some or all of the cost. If you need additional testing, insurance will usually cover that as well. If you do not have insurance, reach out to us so we can ensure you have access to screening. 

What Do You Look For During a Skin Cancer Screening?

During your skin cancer screening, your doctor will be primarily looking for three types of cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Squamous and basal cell carcinomas form in different layers of the skin. Melanoma forms from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. 

Squamous and basal cell carcinomas most often appear in areas exposed to the sun, including the face, chest, arms, and scalp. They can appear as bumps or flat patches that look red, pearly, or flaky. They may itch or feel irritated, or they may not feel any different than the rest of your skin. 

Melanoma usually appears as a mole or clump of melanocytes. Screening for melanoma follows the ABCDE rule:

• Asymmetric moles
• Borders that look uneven or ragged
• Colors that look mottled or patchy
• Diameter greater than 6mm
• Evolution or changes in a mole

Your doctor will take a biopsy of any concerning spots and send it for testing. If the testing determines that skin cancer is present, further tests will determine the best course of treatment.