Skin Cancer Check Program

What is the difference between a public and private skin cancer check?

Private skin cancer checks are usually conducted for a specific organization and are only offered to internal employees. Public skin cancer checks are offered to the general community with no restrictions on who can attend. The Academy promotes public skin cancer checks but does not promote private events.

Who can assist at the skin cancer check?

Medical personnel, including well-trained physician assistants and nurse practitioners, can screen under the direct supervision of a dermatologist. However, an Academy member MUST serve as the skin cancer check director and be in attendance at the event.

How does the AAD promote the skin cancer check event?

For public skin cancer checks, the Academy will post details about the event on its web site and toll-free number, including a contact’s phone number to make an appointment, get directions, or ask questions. Visitors looking for a free skin cancer check in their area can enter their zip code to find a skin cancer check within a 50-mile radius.

When do most free skin cancer checks take place?

Many skin cancer checks are held between May-August. However, they can take place at any time during the year. The Academy reminds the public of the importance of year-round sun protection, so hosting a skin cancer check in the winter months is appropriate.

How do I get supplies for a skin cancer check?

Use our free materials located in the platform for skin cancer checks.

How should the skin cancer check room be set up?

Each exam room should include a table or two chairs, exam gowns, latex gloves or hand sanitizer, and additional lighting, if needed.

Where are most skin cancer checks held?

Anywhere Wi-Fi is available! Offices, fairs, hospitals, etc.

How many volunteers are needed for the skin cancer check?

Invite as many local dermatologists and their staff (residents, nurse practitioners, and physician’s assistants) as possible. Assign time slots for those individuals who agree to check skin. Note the following suggestions:

• One dermatologist can usually check between 6-10 patients an hour

• Have female and male assistants available if a chaperone is requested

• Recruit assistants to help with paper work and traffic flow

General questions:

What is the new AAD skin cancer check digital platform?

The digital platform is a new online system designed to help AAD members plan, manage, and report skin cancer checks more easily and efficiently.

Why is AAD transitioning to a digital platform for skin cancer checks?

This update will simplify the entire process, from event planning to reporting, while improving the quantity and quality of data collection and support for volunteers.

When will the platform be available to use?

The platform will launch in 2026, starting with a pilot phase. Watch your email for updates on specific dates.

Is the new platform required for all future AAD skin cancer check events?

Yes. We are phasing out paper and request volunteers to use the platform.

Access & setup:

How do I access the platform?

You’ll be able to access the platform through https://members.skincheckvolunteer.aad.org/login using your AAD member credentials. You’ll need a laptop or tablet and access to WiFi. The platform is not set up for phone access.

Do I need an AAD member login to use the platform?

Yes, you must be an AAD member to log in and host skin cancer checks through the platform.

Can my office staff or volunteers access the platform on my behalf?

At this time, access is limited to AAD members. We recommend that the member manage the event or coordinate tasks with their team offline.

Will I need any special software or training to use the new platform?

No special software is needed. The platform is web-based and user-friendly. Training resources will be provided to help you get started.

Using the platform:

What can I do in the digital platform?

You can create and manage AAD skin cancer check events, access resources, coordinate logistics, and receive outcome reports, all in one place.

Can I use the platform to request promotional materials?

Downloadable materials and templates will be available on the platform. Educational materials are housed on the platform, which members can download and print to share with participants.

Can I manage multiple AAD Skin Cancer Check events at once?

Yes, the platform allows you to plan and track multiple events under your account.

Can I edit or cancel an AAD Skin Cancer Check event after I’ve submitted it?

Yes, you’ll be able to update or cancel your skin cancer check event through your dashboard.

How do I communicate with volunteers through the platform?

You’ll be able to download volunteer rosters to contact them directly.

Can I upload photos or event recaps?

Please! Share your experience, photos, or stories for AAD use at aad.org/share-your-story.

Reporting & data:

How do I report AAD Skin Cancer Check event outcomes?

After your skin cancer check event, the platform will tabulate event results and update year-to-date highlights on the member dashboard.

What happens to my AAD skin cancer check event data after I submit it?

Data is securely stored for six years and used in aggregate to track program impact and inform public health efforts.

Will I receive confirmation after submitting my results?

Yes, you’ll receive a confirmation once your AAD skin cancer check event report has been successfully submitted.

Can I view past event history or reports?

Yes, you’ll be able to access your AAD skin cancer check event history from your member dashboard.

Feedback:

How can I share feedback about the platform experience?

We welcome your feedback! Submit suggestions through skincancerchecks@aad.org.

Transitioning from the old process:

Can I still host an AAD Skin Cancer Check if I’m not ready to use the digital platform?

We encourage members to transition to the digital platform and are offering individual in-person training and a "How to" video by request.

If you encounter issues using the platform, contact us at (866) 503-SKIN (7546) or mrc@aad.org. The AAD Member Resource Center is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

Will the paper forms or previous reporting process still be accepted?

Yes, outstanding paper forms will be accepted during the transition period, but we strongly recommend using the digital reporting tools going forward.

Do I need to re-enter information for AAD Skin Cancer Check events I’ve already planned or submitted manually?

No need to re-enter past data. You’ll start fresh with new events in the digital platform.