How do I find a Melanoma survivorship clinic

Finding a Melanoma Survivorship Clinic

I appreciate this important question about ongoing care after melanoma treatment. Let me help you understand your options for finding specialized survivorship support.

What to Look For

According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Melanoma, survivorship care is a critical part of your melanoma journey. After treatment, you'll need regular follow-up care that includes:

• Skin examinations by your healthcare provider (typically at least once yearly, though frequency depends on your stage and risk factors)
• Lymph node checks during physical exams
• Self-examination training so you can monitor your own skin between appointments
• Imaging tests if recommended based on your specific situation

Where to Find Specialized Care

NCCN Cancer Centers are your best starting point. These are leading cancer centers across the country that follow the latest evidence-based guidelines for melanoma care. You can find them at:

• NCCN.org/cancercenters - This will show you NCCN member institutions near you

Other trusted resources include:

1. Your current oncology team - Ask if they have a survivorship program or can refer you to one. Many cancer centers now have dedicated survivorship clinics.

2. Dermatology-oncology specialists - Look for dermatologists who specialize in melanoma. They often provide long-term follow-up care.

3. Melanoma-specific organizations that can connect you with resources:

   • AIM at Melanoma (AIMatMelanoma.org)
   • Melanoma Research Foundation (melanoma.org)
   • The Skin Cancer Foundation (skincancer.org)

4. National Cancer Institute (NCI) - Visit cancer.gov for resources and clinical trials if you're interested in additional treatment options or research studies.

Questions to Ask When Calling

When you contact a clinic, ask:

• Do you have a melanoma survivorship program?
• How often will I need follow-up appointments?
• Will I see the same provider each time?
• Do you provide skin self-exam training?
• Are genetic counseling services available if needed?

Important Note

According to the NCCN Guidelines, your follow-up care should be personalized based on your melanoma stage and specific risk factors. Your care team will determine the appropriate schedule and tests for YOUR situation.

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.