Skin Cancer Patients Face Higher Emergency Room Visits, Study Finds
A new study reveals that nearly one-third of Australian patients diagnosed with skin cancer require emergency department (ED) care within a year of their diagnosis, highlighting potential gaps in post-diagnosis support.
A comprehensive data-linkage study, published in Oncology Advances in 2025, examined the prevalence and risk factors associated with ED presentations among individuals with malignant skin cancers, including melanoma. Researchers analyzed data from 3,873 patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2018 at the Royal Melbourne and Western Health hospitals.
The study found a 29% prevalence of ED presentations, totaling 2,119 episodes of care. The median number of ED visits was zero, but the range extended to 14 visits, indicating a significant disparity in care needs. This research is particularly important as emergency department presentations have been linked to increased cancer mortality rates.
Several demographic and clinical factors were identified as increasing the risk of ED visits. Patients aged 75 years or older were 78% more likely to require emergency care (odds ratio (OR) = 1.78 [95% confidence interval 1.47–2.15]; incidence risk ratio (IRR) = 1.52 [1.35–1.70]). Male patients also showed a heightened risk, with a 17% increase in the likelihood of an ED visit (OR = 1.17 [1.01–1.36]; IRR = 1.23 [1.12–1.35]).
Socioeconomic status (SES) played a surprising role, with both the lowest (0–30%) and highest (71–100%) SES levels associated with increased ED use. Individuals in the lowest SES bracket were 59% more likely to visit the ED (OR = 1.59 [1.24–2.03]; IRR = 1.69 [1.45–1.96]), while those in the highest bracket showed a 30% increase (OR = 1.30 [1.07–1.58]; IRR = 1.27 [1.12–1.45]).
Language barriers also emerged as a significant factor. Patients who preferred a language other than English were 47% more likely to present to the ED (OR = 1.47 [1.17–1.84]; IRR = 1.49 [1.32–1.69]). Perhaps most strikingly, patients with experience in systemic therapy or radiotherapy faced a 277% higher risk of ED presentation (OR = 3.77 [2.12–6.71]; IRR = 2.36 [1.82–3.05]). Conversely, patients younger than 65 years were less likely to require emergency care, demonstrating a 28% reduction in risk (OR = 0.72 [0.59–0.89]; IRR = 0.78 [0.68–0.90]).
These trends were also observed within the sub-cohort of patients diagnosed with melanoma, with similar risk factors identified. “These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support high-risk patients after a skin cancer diagnosis,” one analyst noted.
This study represents the first comprehensive data on post-diagnosis ED presentations in patients with skin malignancies, including melanoma. The results suggest a critical need for improved care coordination, particularly for older patients, men, individuals facing socioeconomic challenges, those with language barriers, and those undergoing cancer treatment, to reduce avoidable emergency department visits and potentially improve outcomes.
Digging Deeper: Why Are Skin Cancer Patients Overusing teh Emergency room?
The findings regarding increased emergency department utilization among skin cancer patients, particularly those with melanoma, offer a crucial starting point. But what underlying factors are driving these ED visits? And what can be done to reduce the burden on patients and healthcare systems? Let’s examine the possible causes and explore potential solutions.
The study highlights a 29% prevalence of ED visits within a year of skin cancer diagnosis [[1]]. This could be due to a combination of factors. One significant driver could be a lack of thorough post-diagnosis support. Patients,especially those with complex treatment regimens or limited access to follow-up care,might find themselves turning to the ED to manage symptoms or complications.
Moreover,the study points out that individuals undergoing systemic therapy or radiotherapy are at ample risk. These treatments often come with side effects like severe skin reactions, infections, or other systemic issues that can necessitate immediate medical attention. Additionally, as noted, multiple factors were identified as increasing the risk of emergency department visits, which include being male, of advanced age, having lower and higher socioeconomic status levels, and speaking a language other than English [[3]]
Unpacking the Risk Factors
The research reveals several key demographics at higher risk of ED visits. Let’s break down these factors further:
- Age: Older patients (75+) may have multiple health issues. This can complicate their recovery and make them more susceptible to treatment side effects.
- Gender: While we understand that men show a heightened risk, the precise reasons warrant further investigation: do they delay seeking care? Are screening rates, and thus early diagnosis, lower?
- Socioeconomic Status: Those in both the lowest and highest SES brackets are at increased risk. This suggests that access to care,health literacy,and potentially a sense of perceived risk,play a critical role. Individuals with lower SES may have limited resources. Those with very high SES may experience more potential complications and treatment for their cancer.
- Language Barriers: Communication issues can impact a patient’s understanding of their condition,treatment plan,and warning signs needing immediate care.
- Treatment Modalities: Systemic therapies and radiation carry risk for significant side effects, which can require immediate emergency room visits.
What is the primary driver for skin cancer patients’ ED visits? The lack of comprehensive post-diagnosis support, complex treatment side effects, and communication barriers can lead patients to seek emergency care. Can preventative measures and tailored support services reduce needless ED visits? Absolutely. Proactive management can ultimately improve outcomes and reduce burdens.
Actionable Strategies: improving Patient Care
To address this concerning trend, several interventions can be implemented.
- Enhanced Post-Diagnosis support: Implement comprehensive care management programs for newly diagnosed patients. This can include regular check-ins, symptom management guidance, and education about potential complications and when to seek help.
- Early Intervention for Side Effects: Provide proactive and accessible channels to help manage side effects from treatments. This could include phone consultations with oncology nurses, access to specialized dermatology care, or clear, concise educational materials.
- Targeted Support for High-Risk Groups: Develop tailored services for patients identified through the study’s risk factors. Provide culturally competent care and language assistance.
- Improved communication: Health providers can benefit their patients through clear, concise communication, and understandable follow up care.
- Care Coordination: This is an importent step in providing the best post-diagnosis care.
The Path Forward
Reducing unnecessary ED visits requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, patients, and support organizations.Through proactive strategies that address identified risk factors and improve care coordination,we can strive to decrease the burden on the emergency room,improve patient outcomes.
The research underscores the importance of proactively addressing the needs of skin cancer patients. By understanding these factors and implementing targeted interventions,healthcare professionals can improve the quality of life for patients.
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