What To Know About Treating Melanoma

Getting a melanoma diagnosis can be scary. After all, melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and the deadliest. This type of cancer occurs when your melanocytes grow out of control. Without treatment, this type of skin cancer can spread to other parts of your body. The good news is that when melanoma is caught early, it is highly curable, and there are many treatment options. Here's what you should know about melanoma cancer treatment.

What Treatments Are Available

The first thing to know is what melanoma cancer treatment options are available. Surgery is often used to treat this type of skin cancer. The goal is to remove the melanoma and some of the healthy tissue around it to reduce the risk of the cancer returning. If the melanoma has spread, more extensive surgery may be necessary. Melanoma can also be treated with radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. After your diagnosis, your medical team will walk you through your treatment options and devise a plan for treating your cancer.

What Treatments Are Right For You

Usually, a team that includes a dermatologist, medical oncologist, and surgeon will work to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation. First, however, you will be able to make a few decisions regarding your treatment. Your treatment plan will depend on the stage of your skin cancer, your age, your overall health, as well as your needs and preferences. Your medical team will work with you and discuss potential side effects and the potential effectiveness of different treatment options to help you decide how you want to move forward. 

How Much It Will Cost

What you pay for melanoma cancer treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the treatments used, and your health insurance coverage. Insurance coverage, especially, will have a significant impact on the overall cost of your melanoma cancer treatment. Most plans will cover at least some of the costs associated with your treatment, but the specifics can vary widely. Without insurance, your treatment bill can range from $400 to more than $50,000. If you have insurance, you may be responsible for copays that range from 10 to 50 percent of the treatment cost. 

There are a few things to know about treating melanoma after you get diagnosed. First, familiarizing yourself with the treatment options is essential. Second, consider what treatments are right for you and follow the advice of your medical team. Finally, the cost of melanoma cancer treatment varies depending on your health insurance, the treatments used, and the stage of your cancer.