COVID-19 & You

During the course of the  COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve heard from skin cancer patients who are concerned about the coronavirus and its many variants. The pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our healthcare system that still continue today.

What You Can Do

Be proactive. If you have a medical concern during a time where variants are spreading through the population, you should see a dermatologist as soon as possible. While masking is no longer mandatory, you can opt to wear a mask to protect yourself. Also, see if your doctor offers telemedicine options for non-emergencies.

In the meantime, find ways to relieve stress: try mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation, a good book, or speak with friends and family. Above all, try to eat healthy and nutritious foods, exercise and get enough sleep.

Staying informed, asking questions and heeding the advice of medical professionals and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the best way to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

About Telemedicine

Teledermatology is a telemedicine subspecialty using the latest technology to allow patients better access to high-quality dermatologic care without traveling to the clinic. Here’s how you may be able to use teledermatology to help when it comes to skin cancer:

• Contact your dermatologist’s office to see if they offer teledermatology services.
• Take photos on your phone of anything new, changing or unusual on your skin and monitor it over time. There are even apps that will send you a monthly reminder to check on the spot to see if it has evolved.
• Share the photos with your dermatologist who can look them over virtually and provide advice over the phone. They will determine if you need to come into the office or not.
• If you’ve recently been treated for skin cancer, your dermatologist may be able to provide follow-up care over the phone or via video sessions.

COVID-19 resources: Below is a list of additional resources and information about COVID-19 for patients and caregivers.