Question 1

How much will a skin check cost me?

Accepted Answer

Our standard skin check fee is $115. The Medicare rebate is $45.05, leaving an out-of-pocket cost of $69.95.A longer skin check is $158.20. The Medicare rebate is $87.10, leaving an out-of-pocket cost of $71.10.The same fees apply to weekday and weekend appointments.Bulk-billed skin checksEligible patients have no out-of-pocket cost. We bulk bill skin checks for:Health Care Card holdersPatients aged 16 years and underDVA Gold Card holdersDVA White Card holders with relevant skin-care coverageProcedures and treatmentIf a biopsy or treatment is required, the cost will depend on the diagnosis and recommended procedure. We will explain the proposed treatment, associated fees and expected Medicare rebate before proceeding.We use high-quality medical equipment and allocate the time required to provide safe, thorough care.Fees and Medicare rebates are reviewed periodically and may change.

Question 2

What happens during a skin check?

Accepted Answer

Your skin check usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your doctor uses a dermatoscope to examine spots on your skin. If a spot looks suspicious, your doctor may take a photo and/or a biopsy. The biopsy is then sent to an accredited pathology lab to confirm what it is.

Question 3

What should I do to prepare for a skin check?

Accepted Answer

A full skin check will involve the skin cancer doctor examining your entire body, including your palms, soles, and under your nails. Undergarments will be worn at all times. Please inform your doctor if you have any concerns under your clothes. We advise all our patients to remove all makeup and nail polish before appointments if possible. Mirrors are available in our bathroom for reapplication after the check. Unfortunately, melanoma can occur anywhere on your body, even in areas not exposed to the sun. Please arrive 10 minutes early if it is your first appointment with us to fill out the registration form.

Question 4

Are there out of pocket costs for procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most procedures at Northern Skin Doctors involve an out-of-pocket fee in addition to any applicable Medicare rebate. The cost varies depending on the type, size and complexity of the procedure.Our team will explain the expected fee and Medicare rebate before your procedure is booked, so you can make an informed decision. Please ask us if you would like a written estimate or have any questions about costs.

Question 5

Do you really need a skin check?

Accepted Answer

Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world, including our region in Cairns. Recent statistics show that Smithfield and the Northern Beaches of Cairns have an 86% higher risk than the Australian average. *Evidence - Australian Cancer Atlas (https://atlas.cancer.org.au). Cancer Council Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information. If you are over 25 years old and have never had a skin check, please book in today. Your doctor will create a personalized risk assessment at your appointment and let you know how often to book in the future.

Question 6

Why choose Northern Skin Doctors?

Accepted Answer

Northern Skin Doctors is a dedicated skin cancer clinic with locations in Smithfield and Port Douglas. Our doctors have undertaken additional training in skin cancer medicine and use dermoscopy during full skin checks. When clinically appropriate, FotoFinder total-body photography and digital dermoscopy can support ongoing surveillance.Our purpose designed Smithfield clinic includes two on-site surgical theatres, allowing skin checks, biopsies and many treatments to be coordinated within one clinic. No referral is required.We focus on thorough assessment, clear explanations and practical management plans tailored to each patient. When specialist or hospital care is more appropriate, we arrange referral.

Question 7

How will I receive my results if a biopsy is taken?

Accepted Answer

Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and arrange followup if further management is required. If further management is required, we contact you once the result comes back and advise what to do next. As of October 2025. Myhealth record is always a good backup to review any pathology result.

Question 8

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You can book directly with Northern Skin Doctors. No referral is needed for a skin check or a cosmetic medicine consultation.

Fees & patient information