The Quebec Association of Dermatologists is defending itself after a Drummondville claimed she couldn't find a dermatologist for follow-up care for skin cancer and accused the association of not doing more to get doctors to provide more immediate services for medical cases instead of favouring esthetic care.
Suzanne Roy had a cancerous lesion removed earlier this year. Her doctor told her to get check-ups with a dermatologist every six months in case the cancer returns.
Roy said she was flabbergasted that her local dermatologist gave her a wait time of four years - the same clinic that could give her a Botox appointment in a week or two.
In a Facebook message, Roy had told CJAD 800 that dermatologists should put off esthetic appointments for medical cases like hers. She said it's absurd that if she has a prescription from her doctor regarding a skin cancer follow-up, that should be a priority for the dermatologist.
The association said in a statement that Roy did get a consultation May 23 while Roy claims she was refused a complete exam.
The association said all cases needing post-op follow-up are evaluated according to the existing guidelines and within the recommended delays according to the type and severity of cancer.
The association said 195 dermatologists are working within the public healthcare system.