Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral from my General Practitioner?

You do not need a GP referral to see Dr Michelle Thomson. Many patients choose to self refer and book directly with The Birmingham Skin Clinic. If your GP has already assessed your condition, a referral letter can be helpful, but it is not required for an appointment.

How long will I wait for an appointment?

Most patients can be seen within one week. Urgent skin concerns such as suspicious moles or rapidly changing lesions are prioritised whenever possible.

What will happen at my consultation?

You will meet with Dr Thomson, who will take a detailed history and examine the affected areas. A dermatoscope may be used to assess moles, pigmentation and other lesions more closely. She will then explain the likely diagnosis and discuss treatment options or next steps.

How long will the consultation last?

New consultations typically last 20 to 30 minutes. Follow up consultations are usually 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the nature of the review.

Can I have skin surgery at my first appointment?

Surgery, or treatments requiring specific preparation, are booked for a separate appointment. Dr Thomson will explain what is suitable on the day.

Can I have laser treatment at my first appointment?

Laser treatments usually require a prior consultation to assess suitability, discuss risks and perform a patch test where needed. Treatment is then scheduled for a later date to ensure safe and effective planning.

What if I need non surgical treatment?

If creams, medical treatments or specialised therapies are recommended, Dr Thomson can provide a private prescription or arrange treatment at the clinic. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your diagnosis and skin type.

Will my GP be informed of the outcome?

With your permission, a summary of your consultation, diagnosis and treatment plan can be sent to your GP. This ensures continuity of care and accurate medical records.

How much does a consultation cost?

The fee for an initial consultation is £200. This includes a detailed clinical assessment and written recommendations where appropriate. Follow up appointments are £150. If additional procedures or investigations are required, your treatment plan will outline the associated costs in advance.

Do I need private medical insurance?

No. Self funded patients are welcome and many people attend without insurance. If you do hold private healthcare insurance, you may be able to reclaim costs depending on your policy. Please check with your insurer before booking.

What should I bring to my appointment?

It can be helpful to bring a list of your medications, details of any previous dermatology treatments, and photographs of any changes over time. This allows Dr Thomson to assess your condition as accurately as possible.

If you have a question not covered here or would like to arrange an appointment, please contact The Birmingham Skin Clinic through the contact page.