1.1.1
Give people with melanoma accurate and easy to understand information (both written and spoken) in a sensitive and timely manner throughout their care, tailored to their needs and circumstances. Topics to discuss include:
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melanoma and different types of skin cancer
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treatment options, including the risks and benefits
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where the person's appointments will take place
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which healthcare professionals will undertake the person's care and how to get in touch with them
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expected waiting times for consultations, investigations and treatments
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follow-up after treatment (see the section on follow-up after treatment for melanoma)
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preventing recurrence, and how to protect their skin from damage caused by exposure to the sun, while avoiding vitamin D depletion
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recognising signs and symptoms of suspicious skin lesions
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what to do if they have any concerns and how to re-access services local services and how to get in touch with them.
For more guidance on giving information to people and discussing their preferences, follow the recommendations on communication and patient centred care in NICE's guidelines on patient experience in adult NHS services and shared decision making. [2015]