'It saves lives': Skin Cancer Doctors Call for Medicare Funding for Melanoma Photography

Source: ABC, December 2017

Melanoma surveillance photography, including total body photography and digital dermoscopy are commonly known as mole mapping, and dermatologists say it is a vital tool for the early detection of melanoma.
There is currently no Medicare rebate for mole mapping, and with prices ranging from $250 to $450, it is beyond the reach of many, especially high-risk patients who may need to have their photographs updated every year.
Many experts say total body photography saves both lives and money as it helps doctors detect deadly melanomas earlier, reducing the need for invasive surgery, expensive cancer treatments and palliative care.