Skin checks in high demand as Tasmanians prioritise early detection

With Tasmania facing one of the highest skin cancer rates in Australia, leading health and wellness organisation St Lukes is making it easier for more Tasmanians to access life-saving skin checks.

Tasmania follows just behind Queensland with the nation’s second-highest per capita rate[1] of melanoma. St Lukes Chief Health Officer Luke Cameron said wait times for skin checks can vary, with many specialist clinics booked out for months.

“We all know skin checks are important and melanoma has a high survival rate if caught early, but access and affordability remain real issues in Tasmania,” Mr Cameron said.

“Affordability continues to be a challenge across the health system, and out‑of‑pocket costs can be a real barrier for people seeking care.

“We offered 1,680 free appointments across Hobart, Launceston and Devonport, and were blown away by the response – the skin checks booked out within 90 minutes of opening.” 

St Lukes believes this is evidence Tasmanians are seeking more investment in preventive services.

“The dramatic response is clear evidence that when given the opportunity, Tasmanians will prioritise health screening,” Mr Cameron said.

St Lukes is working with Aspen Medical and Spotscreen to deliver the skin checks, bringing certified skin cancer screening practitioners to Tasmania.

“By removing cost barriers and improving access to preventive care, St Lukes is helping Tasmanians stay healthier by identifying concerns early and freeing up capacity so both members and the wider community can be seen sooner,” Mr Cameron said.

“Supporting earlier detection and reducing the growing impact of skin cancer in Tasmania is part of our vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.”

Anita Grindlay, General Manager Client Innovation & Services at Aspen Medical said together with Spotscreen, they were pleased to support St Lukes to provide this invaluable service to members.

“The 15-minute appointment involves a full-body check by a certified skin cancer screening practitioner, who will then recommend if any further follow up is required by a GP,” she said.