When Sam Jenkins booked his GP appointment, he hadn’t thought much about the small mole on his shoulder. He only came in for a repeat prescription. What happened next saved his life.
Sam, a 46-year-old dad from regional Victoria, had no intention of getting his skin checked that day. He wasn’t someone who fussed about his health, and like many Aussies, he spent most of his weekends outdoors – mowing lawns, watching cricket, or having a barbie with mates. Sunscreen was something he used “when he remembered.”
But as he sat in the GP clinic, his doctor noticed a dark, uneven mole just peeking out from under his T-shirt sleeve.
“That mole looks a bit suspicious,” his GP said casually. “Mind if I take a closer look?”
Within minutes, the GP examined the mole using a dermatoscope. Concerned, she arranged for Sam to be referred for a formal skin check via the iSeeGP referral portal, connecting him to a nearby specialist clinic.
A Quick Referral, a Swift Diagnosis
Through the iSeeGP system, the referral was made in just a few clicks. The dermatology clinic contacted Sam within two days. A biopsy was performed, and the results came back: superficial spreading melanoma – the most common type of melanoma in Australia.
Thankfully, it was caught early.
“They told me if I’d waited another six months, it could’ve spread,” Sam recalled. “It was a complete shock.”
Why Routine GP Visits Matter
Sam’s story isn’t unique. In fact, many Australians don’t realise that a GP can be the first line of defence when it comes to detecting skin cancer early. And early detection can be life-saving.
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. According to Cancer Council Australia, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.
Yet, many people don’t regularly see their GP – or if they do, they don’t mention skin concerns unless asked.
“The truth is, skin cancer doesn’t always look scary,” said Dr Patel, a Melbourne-based GP. “Sometimes it’s just a slightly darker spot, or something that’s changed shape or colour. That’s why GPs are trained to spot these things.”
The Power of the iSeeGP Portal
Thanks to platforms like iSeeGP, patients like Sam can be quickly referred to services including:
-
Skin checks
-
Dermatology consults
-
Minor surgery
-
Mole removal
-
Biopsy and follow-up care
Whether you live in the city or a rural area, the iSeeGP portal helps general practices connect patients to trusted providers, often with shorter waiting times and more affordable options.
More Specialised Clinics Available Across Victoria
There are also highly rated skin check clinics nationwide for those seeking direct access to specialised skin cancer services. Websites like Skin Cancer Australia list trusted providers, helping patients find experienced professionals for thorough skin assessments.
Whether you go through your GP or visit a specialist directly, the most important step is taking action early.
Sam’s Outcome and Message to Others
Sam had the melanoma removed with a wide local excision. He now sees his GP every six months for full skin checks.
“I tell all my mates – go to your doctor, get your skin checked. Don’t wait for something to feel wrong. Just ask.”
Sam’s story is a powerful reminder that a GP visit isn’t just for colds or scripts – it could save your life.
Is It Time for Your Skin Check?
If you’ve noticed any new moles, changing, or look unusual – or even if you haven’t – it’s worth speaking to your GP. Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if caught early.
To find services near you or to be referred for a skin check, ask your GP to use the iSeeGP referral portal. Or explore highly rated clinics directly through Skin Cancer Australia.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ – and sometimes, your GP is your best chance of protecting it.