Survey reveals higher likelihood of reported delays in accessing melanoma care among patients with skin of color
Have you read one of the latest articles published in JDD titled, “Delays in Medical Care Among Skin of Color Melanoma Patients: A Population-Based Study”? A nationally representative analysis of the National Health Interview Survey compared self-reported melanoma patients across the United States and found that individuals with skin of color reported higher rates of delayed medical care for reasons including inability to obtain an appointment, difficulty reaching clinics by phone, lack of transportation, and long wait times. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, patients with skin of color had more than twice the odds of experiencing delayed care compared with white patients, suggesting access barriers may contribute to later stage at diagnosis and poorer outcomes. The study highlights system level obstacles that may affect timely melanoma detection and treatment in diverse populations.
Read the full JDD article for cohort definitions, analyses, and discussion of implications for access, clinic workflows, and outreach in dermatology practice.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2026;25(4). doi:10.36849/JDD.9224
Blog write-up assisted by AI
