Alexander (Sandy) Milne

A young single mother in Whakatāne has asked me for advice on how to deal with the following problem.

She was referred to a Whakatāne plastic surgery clinic by her GP. She had moles and other blemishes on her otherwise beautiful face.

She had concerns they may be skin cancer or malignant growths because they had become bigger over time.

Her locum GP referred her to a plastic surgery clinic – I have the names.

For her five-minute consultation with the plastic surgeon she was charged $385.

During this short consultation, I was told that the estimate for removing the problems would be around $2000.

She told me, “I have the invoice and estimate for this. I’ll attach at end of this, email”, and “I have paid $285 and cannot afford more”.

She has since moved to another Whakatāne GP practice where doctors have quoted $430 to have one removed and one frozen, with the one being removed getting sent off for tests.

This lady is a hard-working domestic employee on a low wage.

A few years ago, I had a skin cancer lesion removed from my own nose in 10 minutes, promptly, and at no cost.

A close friend had a similar problem and prompt care.

I shall help my young lady friend. Are there any offers of assistance from others?