Skin Cancer Screening

You Noticed Something. That Instinct Matters.

Maybe it's a mole that looks different than it used to. Maybe it's a spot that won't stop scabbing over, or a freckle that just feels "off." Whatever brought you here, trust that instinct, it's worth having checked by someone who knows exactly what to look for. Patients may be seen by any of our providers, and every member of our team is trained to evaluate and treat skin cancer.

Idaho's high-altitude sun and outdoor lifestyle mean many of our patients have spent decades hiking, skiing, floating the river, and working outside, often without realizing how much cumulative UV exposure adds up over a lifetime. Combined with Boise's elevation, which increases UV intensity compared to sea level, regular skin cancer screening is one of the simplest things you can do to protect your health.

• You don't need to wait for something alarming to schedule a screening
• Annual screenings are recommended for most adults, and more often for higher-risk patients
• Early detection is consistently linked to simpler, less invasive treatment

What a Skin Cancer Screening Is

A skin cancer screening is a thorough, head-to-toe visual examination performed by a board-certified dermatologist to check for signs of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other suspicious lesions.

• Performed by our expert providers, a team of board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery
• Uses visual inspection and, when needed, dermatoscopy to examine moles and lesions more closely
• Covers the scalp, ears, back, hands, feet, and other commonly overlooked areas
• Any suspicious spot can be biopsied on the same visit in most cases
• Appropriate coding, including relevant ICD-10 categories for suspicious lesions or routine screening exams, is handled by our billing team so you can focus on your care, not paperwork

What to Expect at Your Visit

• Check-in and history: we'll ask about your sun exposure history, family history of skin cancer, and any spots that concern you
• Full-body exam: a skin exam or skin consult typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, performed in a private exam room with a gown provided
• Closer look: any suspicious lesions are examined with a dermatoscope for a more detailed view
• Biopsy if needed: minor biopsies can often be performed the same day with minimal discomfort and local numbing
• Results and next steps: biopsy results typically return within about a week, and your provider will walk you through any findings and recommended care plan
• Downtime: screenings themselves require no downtime, and biopsy sites are usually well-tolerated with simple at-home care

What Patients Can Realistically Expect

Most screenings find nothing concerning, and that peace of mind alone is worth the visit. When something is found, many patients are relieved to learn that early-stage skin cancers caught during routine screening are often treated successfully with straightforward, in-office procedures.

• Many patients find the exam quick, thorough, and far less stressful than they anticipated
• If a biopsy is needed, results generally return within about one week
• Follow-up frequency depends on your personal and family history, ranging from annual visits to more frequent monitoring for higher-risk patients
• Patients with a history of skin cancer often benefit from a personalized surveillance schedule

Who Should Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

• Adults due for their annual skin check, especially those over 40
• Anyone with a new, changing, or unusual mole or spot
• Idaho residents with significant lifetime sun exposure from hiking, skiing, farming, construction, or outdoor recreation
• Patients with a personal or family history of melanoma or other skin cancers
• Fair-skinned individuals, or those with a history of blistering sunburns
• Patients with a history of tanning bed use
• Older children and teens with concerning moles, referred by a pediatrician or parent
• Anyone who simply wants a knowledgeable second opinion on a spot they've been watching

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

Most adults benefit from an annual full-body skin exam, though your dermatologist may recommend more frequent visits based on your skin type, sun exposure history, and personal or family history of skin cancer. If you notice a new or changing spot between visits, don't wait, call and get it looked at sooner.

Does insurance cover skin cancer screenings?

Many insurance plans cover skin cancer screenings, particularly when there's a specific concern or family history documented, and our billing team handles the appropriate coding, including relevant ICD-10 categories, on your behalf. We recommend calling your insurance provider ahead of your visit to confirm your specific coverage and any applicable copay.

Will I need a biopsy?

Not necessarily. A biopsy is only performed if your dermatologist sees something on a lesion that warrants a closer look under the microscope. If one is needed, it's typically a quick, well-tolerated procedure that can often be done during the same visit.

What if a spot turns out to be skin cancer?

If a biopsy comes back positive, you'll meet with your dermatologist to review a clear, personalized care plan. Because our providers are board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, many patients can have their treatment planned and performed right here at Treasure Valley Dermatology without being referred elsewhere.

Can children get a skin cancer screening?

Yes. While skin cancer is far less common in children, we do see younger patients with atypical moles, family history concerns, or spots a parent or pediatrician wants evaluated. Our team is comfortable and experienced examining patients of all ages, from young children to seniors.

Why Treasure Valley Dermatology

Skin cancer screenings deserve more than a rushed glance. At Treasure Valley Dermatology, you're examined by Dr. Dustin Portela, Dr. Kelsey Ferrell, or Dr. Ben Buttars, board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, which means the same team screening you today is also equipped to treat you tomorrow if something is found.

• Board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, all under one roof
• 700+ five-star reviews from patients who describe the team as thorough, genuine, and "a breath of fresh air"
• Full-family care, from pediatric skin checks to screenings for grandparents
• Two convenient locations in Boise and Meridian, serving Eagle, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, Kuna, and beyond
• Access to clinical trials for patients who qualify for advanced treatment options
• Patients consistently note feeling heard, with one describing the practice as "committed to identifying the underlying causes" of their skin concerns

Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today

Whether you're due for your annual check or you've found a spot that concerns you, don't wait to get it looked at by someone who knows exactly what they're looking for. Our expert providers and the team at Treasure Valley Dermatology are here to give you a thorough, unhurried exam at either our Boise or Meridian location.

Visit dermatologyboise.com/schedule-an-appointment to book your skin cancer screening today, and take one simple step toward protecting your skin for years to come.