Getting a referral

Some birthmarks are complex and many of our members have initially experienced misdiagnosis or incorrect advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can be essential for certain types of birthmarks, so to get help we recommend doing the following:

Book an appointment with your GP to try and identify the type of birthmark. Ask for a referral to a dermatologist or birthmark specialist centre.

(Not all GPs will be able to diagnose the type of birthmark, particularly with children. In this instance the GP may refer you to a consultant paediatrician first, adding another step into the equation.  If you are concerned that the birthmark needs more immediate attention, try and persuade your GP to refer you straight to a dermatologist or ideally to a birthmark specialist centre.)

If your doctor is not sure the best place to refer you or your child, you can always go armed with the centre name and address to help him do this.

If the GP does not wish to refer you, ask for a second opinion.

If you are referred to a consultant paediatrician/dermatologist and you are not satisfied with the prognosis, you should ask for a referral to a specalist centre.

If you are finding you are not getting very far through this process and you are concerned that the birthmark needs immediate attention please contact us.