Skin Cancer Service Now Available at HOCC

Summer is upon us, a time when most people are eager to get outside and enjoy the warmth of the sun. But it’s also a time to take precautions against potentially harmful effects of overexposure.

The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central Connecticut, the comprehensive cancer center that opened last year on the New Britain-Plainville town line, is offering a new service for those who have concerns about skin cancer. Beginning July 27, dermatologist and skin cancer specialist Frank Santoro, MD, as well as Lindita Vinca, APRN, will be offering consultations, examinations and other skin cancer-related services on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Patients can make appointments any time between 8 am and 3 pm by calling 203.694.5857.

The purpose behind this service is to focus on the prevention, early detection and treatment of skin cancers. Providers will perform skin exams and counsel people on health skin care practices. Patients can also be seen if they are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer treatment and have rashes that sometimes coincide with chemotherapy.

This new service is appropriate for patients who have extremely unusual markings or lesions on their skin and need an exam, or for those who have had a skin cancer diagnosis in the past. It is not recommended for people who are concerned about common rashes or other non-cancerous skin conditions.