National Skin Cancer Week and Building Strong Partnerships in Skin Cancer Care – Q&A with Dr Emily Alfonsi, Shade Skin Cancer Medicine
At AMA Medical Products, we take pride in building long-term relationships with healthcare professionals who share our commitment to quality and patient care. Shade Skin Cancer Medicine is one such partner, and this Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we sat down with Dr Emily Alfonsi to talk about her work, early detection, and the tools that help her team deliver exceptional care every day.
Meet the Experts
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Dr Emily Alfonsi, Medical Director at Shade Skin Cancer Medicine in Perth, combines clinical expertise with a compassionate, patient-focused approach. A graduate of the University of Western Australia (MBBS, 2016), she went on to complete her DRANZCOG in 2020 and became a Fellow of the RACGP in 2023. She now devotes herself full time to skin cancer and cosmetic medicine, having diagnosed and treated thousands of skin cancers across Western Australia. Known for her attention to detail and approachable manner, she is passionate about patient education and early detection. |
| Dr Kate Jameson, Medical Director of Youth Lab and Executive Director of Shade Skin Cancer Medicine, brings both clinical skill and a strong vision for integrated skin health. Since founding Youth Lab in 2018, she has grown a network of high-end aesthetic clinics across Perth, specialising in non-surgical facial rejuvenation and holistic skin care. As a GP and Cosmetic Physician with advanced training and fellowships, she has built a reputation for excellence in patient care. Through both Youth Lab and Shade Skin, Dr Kate promotes sun safety and skin cancer awareness while helping patients achieve healthy, confident skin. |  |
Dr Emily, could you start by telling us a bit about Shade Skin and your role within the team?
Of course. I’m one of the founding doctors at Shade Skin Cancer Medicine, a dedicated skin cancer clinic focused on early detection, treatment and prevention. Our goal is simple – to make skin checks accessible, thorough and compassionate. I work alongside a team of doctors and nurses who share the same commitment to catching skin cancer early and supporting patients with clarity and care.
November marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month. From your perspective as a skin cancer doctor, what are some of the most common misconceptions you see in patients about sun exposure or skin checks?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that skin cancer only affects older Australians or those with fair skin. The reality is that anyone can be at risk, especially in a country like ours where UV levels are high all year round. Another misconception is that people think they’ll “feel” something if they have skin cancer, when most lesions are painless and subtle. Regular skin checks are the only way to be certain.
Early detection is something Shade Skin emphasises. How often should Australians be getting their skin checked, and what signs should prompt an immediate visit?
For most people, an annual skin check is ideal, but those with a history of sun damage, fair skin, occupational exposure, a family history of skin cancer or previous skin cancers should come in more often. If you notice a new spot that looks different from the rest, a mole that changes shape or colour, or a sore that doesn’t heal, it’s worth booking a check straight away. Early detection truly saves lives, and it’s something we see proven time and again in our clinics.
AMA Medical Products supports clinics like Shade Skin with diagnostic tools and medical supplies. What are some of the key products or devices from AMA that your team relies on day to day?
We use a range of products from AMA Medical Products across our clinics. The Heine dermatoscopes are a staple for our doctors and form the foundation of every skin check. We also rely on AMA for high-quality cryotherapy equipment, biopsy and surgical equipment, and consumables like dressings and disinfectants. Their range is consistent, reliable and designed with clinical accuracy in mind, which makes our job much easier and safer for patients.
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Why did Shade Skin choose to partner with AMA Medical Products?
We chose AMA because they share our values around quality, trust and patient care. Their team is knowledgeable, responsive and genuinely cares about supporting clinics like ours. Having a supplier that understands the needs of a medical practice – from the right diagnostic tools to fast delivery when we’re running low – makes all the difference. It allows us to focus on what matters most, which is our patients.
From your experience, how do high-quality tools impact diagnostic accuracy or patient confidence in a clinical setting?
The right tools give doctors confidence in their diagnoses and patients confidence in our care. A clear, high-resolution dermatoscope image can be the difference between detecting a melanoma early or missing it altogether. When patients see that we’re using advanced, professional-grade equipment, it reinforces their trust that they’re in good hands.
Many Australians still put off getting their skin checked. What is one message you would like to share this Skin Cancer Awareness Month to encourage people to prioritise prevention?
My message would be simple – don’t wait. A 20-minute appointment could change your life. Skin cancer is one of the few cancers we can see with our own eyes, and when caught early, treatment is usually straightforward and highly effective. Make it a yearly habit, just like going to the dentist or optometrist. Prevention is always easier than cure.
Are there any innovations or new approaches in skin cancer medicine that excite you and the Shade Skin team?
Absolutely. We’re seeing exciting advances in digital dermoscopy, which allows us to track changes in lesions with incredible precision over time. Artificial intelligence is also emerging as a supportive tool for early detection, helping doctors identify subtle patterns. At Shade Skin, we’re passionate about embracing technology while maintaining that essential human connection and clinical judgment that every patient deserves.
Shade Skin Cancer Medicine is proud to partner with AMA Medical Products in delivering first-rate skin cancer care through high-quality equipment, trusted service and a shared mission to reduce the impact of skin cancer across Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I get a skin check in Australia?
For most Australians, an annual skin check is recommended. However, if you have fair skin, a history of sun damage, occupational sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, or have had previous skin cancers, more frequent checks are advisable. Regular monitoring by a qualified doctor is essential for early detection.
2. What are the warning signs that I need a skin check immediately?
You should book an immediate skin check if you notice a new spot that looks different from your other moles, a mole that changes in shape or color, or a sore that doesn't heal. Since most skin cancer lesions are painless and subtle, visual changes are the key warning signs to watch for.
3. Can young people get skin cancer in Australia?
Yes, skin cancer can affect Australians of all ages, not just older adults. This is a common misconception. Australia's high UV levels year-round put everyone at risk, regardless of age. Young Australians with significant sun exposure should also prioritize regular skin checks.
4. What equipment do skin cancer doctors use during a skin check?
Skin cancer specialists typically use dermatoscopes as the foundation of every examination. These high-resolution diagnostic tools allow doctors to examine skin lesions with enhanced clarity and accuracy, helping to detect melanomas and other skin cancers that might be missed by the naked eye.
5. Does skin cancer always hurt or cause symptoms?
No, most skin cancer lesions are painless and don't cause any physical sensations. This is why many people mistakenly believe they'll "feel" something if they have skin cancer. The absence of pain or symptoms makes regular visual skin checks by a doctor even more critical for early detection.
6. Why is early detection of skin cancer so important?
Early detection of skin cancer saves lives and makes treatment significantly more straightforward and effective. Skin cancer is one of the few cancers that can be seen with the naked eye, and when caught early through regular screening, outcomes are highly positive.
7. Who is most at risk for skin cancer in Australia?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, those at higher risk include people with fair skin, a history of sun damage or sunburn, occupational sun exposure (outdoor workers), a family history of skin cancer, or previous skin cancers. However, UV exposure puts all Australians at some level of risk.
8. What technology is used in modern skin cancer detection?
Modern skin cancer clinics use advanced digital dermoscopy, which tracks changes in skin lesions with high precision over time. Emerging artificial intelligence tools are also being used to support doctors in identifying subtle patterns, though these work alongside essential human clinical judgment and expertise.
9. What is the best way to prevent skin cancer in Australia?
The best prevention strategies include regular skin checks, daily sun protection, wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoiding peak UV exposure. Early detection combined with preventative habits is the most effective way to reduce the impact of skin cancer.
10. What is the most common medical equipment for a new practice?
Starting a new medical practice requires the right equipment and furniture to ensure smooth operations and patient care. Below are some of the essential medical items typically required:
Medical Equipment:
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Stethoscopes: Used for listening to heartbeats, lung sounds, and other bodily functions.
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Ophthalmoscopes: Essential for examining the eyes and diagnosing conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.
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Otoscopes: Used to look inside the ear and diagnose conditions such as infections or earwax buildup.
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Diagnostic Sets: Includes tools for examining eyes, ears, throat, and other areas of the body.
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Defibrillators: Life-saving devices used to restore a normal heart rhythm during emergencies.
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Thermometers: Vital for measuring patient body temperature to check for fever or other health concerns.
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Automatic Blood Pressure Monitors: Provides quick and accurate blood pressure readings without the need for manual cuff inflation.
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Pulse Oximeters: Measures oxygen saturation levels in the blood, an important tool for respiratory health.
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Scales: For accurately weighing patients as part of routine check-ups.
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Sphygmomanometers: Used for manual blood pressure measurement.
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Spirometers: Essential for assessing lung function, particularly in patients with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Medical Furniture:
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Couches, Beds, and Tables: Comfortable and functional furniture for patient examination and treatment.
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Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for accurate diagnoses and a comfortable environment for patients.
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Trolleys and Carts: For storing and transporting medical supplies, medications, and equipment efficiently.
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Vaccine Fridges: Designed to store vaccines at the appropriate temperatures to maintain their effectiveness.
Having the right mix of medical equipment and furniture ensures a safe, efficient, and professional environment for your new practice.