Outpatient surgical management of non‐melanoma skin cancers of the head and neck in a regional centre: an analysis of costs and outcomes

This study presents the novel introduction of an outpatient‐based treatment model for non‐melanoma skin cancer in a regional ear, nose and throat department. Our reporting of non‐melanoma skin cancer lesions, associated margins and outcomes in conjunction with hospital inpatient versus outpatient costs and patient location linked to health service versus local primary care follow‐up, provides a presentation of this novel outpatient model for the consideration of its implementation in future planning and resource allocation. Background Non‐melanoma skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in Australia. Lesions of the head and neck are often outside the scope of primary care providers. The challenges of cancer care in regional Australia necessitate careful resource planning. This study presents an outpatient model that minimizes health service cost with local general practitioner follow‐up. Methods A retrospective review of 105 patients with 122 skin lesions in a dedicated Facial Lesion Assessment Management and Excision clinic was performed from July 2018 to 2019. Clinical outcomes, patient travel and cost analysis/comparison were recorded. Results There were 85 malignant cases with 59 basal cell carcinomas and 25 squamous cell carcinomas. For basal cell carcinoma, clear margins (≥3 mm), close margins (