Compare dermatologists and skin clinics across Australia

Most skin cancer clinics offer bulk-billed skin checks for Medicare card holders — $0 out-of-pocket. A specialist dermatologist consultation (if referred by GP) costs $250-$450 with a Medicare rebate of $80-$150. Skin Cancer Doctors, Spot Check Clinic and similar national chains bulk-bill general skin checks at most locations. Dermatology specialist skin checks for high-risk patients (history of melanoma, atypical mole syndrome) include dermoscopy and computer-assisted mole mapping.

Yes — you need a GP referral to claim Medicare rebates on dermatologist consultations. Without a referral, you can still see a dermatologist privately but pay full fee with no rebate ($350-$600 instead of $80-$150 out-of-pocket). Skin cancer clinics (separate from dermatology clinics) generally don't require referrals and can bulk-bill general checks. Cosmetic-only consultations with cosmetic doctors don't require GP referral, though following 2023 reforms a referral is now required for cosmetic surgery.

Roaccutane (now sold as Oratane and other generics) is highly effective for severe nodulocystic acne — about 80% of patients have lasting clearance after one course. It requires dermatologist prescription due to side effects: dry skin/lips (universal), elevated liver enzymes, severe birth defects (women must use contraception), and rare mood changes. Cost: $250-$500/month for 4-6 months. Strict pregnancy prevention rules apply for women including monthly pregnancy tests.

Choose a clinic with: registered medical practitioner on premises (doctor or nurse practitioner), GP referral pathway (now required), 7-day cooling-off period, transparent pricing, and willingness to refuse treatment if inappropriate. Avoid: discount providers, "Botox parties", clinics offering BOGOF deals on injectables, anyone working from non-clinical premises. Reputable AU chains: Skin Club, All Saints Skin Clinic, Clear Skincare, dermatology practices. Cost: $300-$700 per treatment area (forehead, frown, crows feet).

Mild eczema/psoriasis: GP-prescribed topical steroids (cheap, on PBS) plus emollients. Moderate: dermatologist consultation, prescription calcineurin inhibitors (Elidel, Protopic), short courses of stronger steroids. Severe: biologic injections (Dupixent for eczema, Stelara/Cosentyx for psoriasis) — PBS subsidised for severe cases, otherwise $1,500-$3,500/month. Phototherapy (UV light treatment) at dermatology clinics: $50-$120/session, 2-3 sessions/week for 6-12 weeks, often Medicare rebated.

Annual skin checks are recommended for: fair skin, history of significant sunburn, family history of melanoma, 50+ moles, occupations with sun exposure. Higher-risk individuals (history of melanoma, atypical moles, immunosuppression) should be checked every 3-6 months by a dermatologist. Lower-risk individuals (dark skin, minimal sun exposure, no family history) every 2-3 years. Self-checks monthly between professional visits — look for ABCDE: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolution.

Medically indicated mole excision (suspicious or symptomatic): bulk-billed at most skin cancer clinics, $80-$150 out-of-pocket at dermatologist with Medicare. Cosmetic mole removal (for appearance only): $200-$800 per mole, no Medicare rebate. Excision under local anaesthetic takes 15-30 minutes, leaves a small linear scar. Shave excisions ($150-$400) are quicker but may regrow. All removed moles should be sent to pathology — refuse if a clinic offers to remove without histology.

Most cosmetic treatments (Botox, fillers, IPL, laser hair removal, mole removal for appearance) are NOT covered by private health insurance — they're classified cosmetic. Medical dermatology (eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer) attracts Medicare rebates if you have a GP referral. Some "extras" packages partially cover non-cosmetic treatments. Hospital cover is rarely needed for dermatology (most procedures done in-rooms). Always check before assuming — health insurance dental and optical typically covers more than dermatology.