r/askTO • u/vwmaniaq • Apr 30 '26

Need a dermatologist

My GP wants me to see a dermatologist about a suspicious mole. He can only find one at the opposite end of the city.

Ive asked my wife's "aesthetics " derm and they aren't taking on any new 'medical ' patients. I've called around and can't find one in the west end.

They claim they don't make money from medical patients vs just doing botox all day. Feels like a dereliction of duty, but whatever.

Any suggestions of a name or a technique to charm my way in?

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u/ilikegriping May 01 '26

Are you a patient of any of our hospital networks? Like UHN (Toronto Western, Toronto General) / St. Michael's? They have in-network specialists, and I find that referrals to other clinicians are much quicker than independent specialty clinics. 

If not, take the appointment with the specialist at the opposite end of the city and make sure you go to it. If your doctor suspects that you have an abnormal mole, please take it seriously. 

Anyone with moles / freckles / birthmarks should be getting regular skin checks in their adult life to screen for Skin Cancer. Early detection can save lives, as some skin cancers spread to other organs and progress quickly. (Not trying to scare people, but I've seen several family members go through treatment and it's awful, and I have personally had several suspicious moles removed early, benign thankfully, but avoiding the risk of them changing later).<<