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MOHs surgery waiting lists

Mathkart
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I’m wondering if anyone is able to give me any information about waiting times for MOHs surgery in their area? 

I have a basal cell carcinoma on my face and the wait time here from referral to treatment (MOHs) will be two years. I saw the consultant last week and that was after one year. I’m panicking because it’s growing larger and has split into two so the surgery and scar will be bigger the longer I wait. I’m also concerned in case there is any metastasis in that time. I’ve enquired about ‘right to choose’ to see if there’s anywhere in the country I can get treatment sooner but still waiting for a response. 

  • Hi ,

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. My name is Karen and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.  

    I’m sorry to hear that you have had to wait a year to see a consultant about the Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) on your face, Mathkart. Your GP would have made a non-urgent referral, because most BCC’s are very slow growing, low risk cancers. They almost never spread to other parts of the body, and with treatment are cured.

    However, you say the BCC is growing and you have concerns that the surgery scar will be bigger the longer you wait. I’m sorry you are feeling panicky, it’s understandable to have some worry. You saw your consultant last week but they indicated that may have to wait another year to have your Mohs surgery?    

    There are a few things you may wish to consider, Mathkart. You could contact your consultant’s secretary, by ringing the hospital switchboard and ask to be put through to them. Explain your concerns and ask if there is a clear indication of when the surgery may be.

    You can also speak to your GP about how the wait is making you feel and your concerns that the BCC is growing. They may be able to look at wait lists for this surgery at other local hospitals. You may be able to ask to change healthcare provider, however there are exceptions to this. You may also wish to consider discussing private healthcare with your GP, if this a viable option for you.

    I’m sorry this is a worrying time for you, Mathkart. Finding ways to help cope with anxiety may help you to manage these feelings. We always recommend avoiding random searching of the internet as you may be accessing unreputable sites that give misinformation. This information on finding reliable information may be helpful.

    You might find it helpful to give us a call and chat to one of the nurses on the Macmillan Support Line.

    I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, the Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial, and emotional support.

    Best wishes,

    Karen

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/KHe/CF

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