Specialty: Dermatology
Age group: Adult
Criteria for referral to public hospital service
- Skin lesion highly suspicious for melanoma or biopsy proven melanoma.
Information to be included in the referral
Information that must be provided
- Details of onset, duration, site, size and any recent changes in size of lesion(s)
- Biopsy results unless biopsy is unable to be performed in primary care due to the size of the lesion or anatomical site (head or genitals).
Provide if available
- Colour photograph(s) – with patient’s consent where secure image transfer, identification and storage is possible. These images often assist with identifying clinical urgency and the most appropriate specialist clinic or service.
Additional comments
The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services lists the information that should be included in a referral request.
Patients with suspected or proven melanoma should be referred for an immediate assessment, whether arranged through a telephone conversation or written referral.
Referrals for seborrheic keratosis, lentigo maligna or warts described as ‘suspicion of melanoma’ as will not be accepted.
Note there are plastic surgery statewide referral criteria for Melanoma
Skin assessments of at-risk patients are best managed in primary care.
Where appropriate and available the referral may be directed to an alternative specialist clinic or service.
Referral to a public hospital is not appropriate for
- Not applicable.
Updated