Skin cancer is one of the most common[1]—and most treatable—types of cancer in Canada when detected early.
Regular self-exams and timely medical evaluations are essential for catching suspicious changes before they progress.
If you’re in Red Deer or Central Alberta, here’s what you need to know about skin cancer checks, when to involve your family doctor, and how referrals to a dermatologist work locally.
Note: In Alberta, a referral from a family doctor or walk-in clinic is typically required to see a dermatologist for medical concerns.
In this article
Why Early Detection Matters
Most skin cancers can be seen on the surface of the skin, making early detection possible.
According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, early-stage melanoma has a cure rate above 90%[2]. However, once cancer spreads, treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less favourable.
Early detection isn’t just important—it can be lifesaving.[3]
Self-Exams: Your First Line of Defense
Performing monthly self-checks helps you notice changes in your skin before they become advanced. The ABCDE rule is a simple way to[4] evaluate moles or spots:
- A – Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
- C – Colour: uneven colours, including black, brown, red, white, or blue
- D – Diameter: larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolution: any change in size, shape, colour, or symptoms (itching/bleeding)
If you spot anything new or changing that persists for more than 4 weeks, book an appointment with your family doctor.
When to Talk to Your Family Doctor
See your doctor promptly if you notice:
- A sore, mole, or lesion that doesn’t heal within 4 weeks[5]
- Persistent itching, bleeding, crusting, or pain in a spot on your skin
- A personal or strong family history of skin cancer[6]
Your GP can examine these signs and, if necessary, provide a referral to a dermatologist for further testing or biopsy.
How Often Should You Get Checked?
- Low risk: Self-monitor monthly; seek a doctor’s assessment if you notice changes.
- High risk (family history, fair skin, sunburns, previous skin cancer)[7]: Your dermatologist will discuss a follow up schedule with you aligned with the current guidelines.
What Happens During a Dermatology Visit
During your appointment, a dermatologist will typically:
- Perform a full-body exam, including the scalp, nails, and between toes
- Use a dermatoscope (a magnifying tool with light) to examine spots closely
- Take photographs for future comparison, if needed
- Perform a biopsy if any lesion looks suspicious
in Alberta (Including Red Deer)
In Alberta, medical dermatology visits (such as for skin cancer screening) require a referral from a family doctor or walk-in physician.
- Covered services: Skin cancer checks and medically necessary assessments are covered by Alberta Health Care.
- Cosmetic-only services: Some dermatology or aesthetic clinics may not require a referral, but these are usually out-of-pocket and not covered by insurance.
Understanding Wait Times
Wait times for dermatology appointments in Canada can vary from weeks to months. If you’re worried about a suspicious lesion:
- Clearly state your concern to your GP
- Ask if it can be marked as urgent
- Request to be placed on a cancellation list for earlier availability
Many dermatology clinics prioritize suspected skin cancer cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is any mole change a red flag?
Yes—especially if it doesn’t resolve in 4 weeks or shows ABCDE signs.
Can I skip self-checks?
No—self-exams are essential between medical visits.
Can I see a dermatologist without a referral in Alberta?
Only for cosmetic concerns. For medical concerns like suspected skin cancer, a referral is required.
Sources
- [1] Cleveland Clinic. (2017) Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Types & Treatment. Retrieved September 13, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15818-skin-cancer
- [2] Canadian Dermatology Association. (2017). Melanoma. Retrieved September 13, 2025, from https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/skin/melanoma/
- [3] Canadian Cancer Society / SociéTé Canadienne Du Cancer. (n.d.) Finding skin cancer early. Retrieved September 13, 2025, from https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-non-melanoma/finding-cancer-early
- [4] Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation. (2019) Why You Should Check Your Skin. Retrieved September 13, 2025, from https://www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com/early-detection/skin-check/
- [5] Cancer Research UK. (n.d.) Seeing your GP about skin cancer. Retrieved September 13, 2025, from https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer/getting-diagnosed/seeing-your-gp
- [6] Canadian Cancer Society / SociéTé Canadienne Du Cancer. (n.d.) Diagnosis of non-melanoma skin cancer. Retrieved September 14, 2025, from https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-non-melanoma/diagnosis
- [7] The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2018) Risk Factors. Retrieved September 14, 2025, from https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/