Skin Cancer Program

Our Approach

Our cancer experts collaborate with you to develop a tailored treatment plan to meet your medical and emotional needs. We focus on you as a whole person, providing a patient-centered experience.

At the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, our cancer care teams know that no two skin cancers are alike. That’s why we focus on you and your specific cancer, developing a personalized care plan with a unique team of experts.

From the moment you or your provider spot the signs of skin cancer, through diagnosis, treatment and beyond, your cancer care team will walk with you. We’ll provide expert guidance, work with you to determine the best treatment plan and connect you with a full team of resources to support you, mind, body and spirit.

Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer in the U.S. with more than 2 million cases diagnosed each year.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the outermost layer of skin, often appearing as a lesion. It’s typically caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations.

Skin Cancer

Types of Skin Cancer We Treat

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Nonmelanoma – the most common type of skin cancer which includes:
- Basal cell carcinoma: The most common type, found in sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: The second most common type, occurring in sun-exposed skin as rough, scaly, reddish patches.
Melanoma - less common, affecting about 1% of skin cancer patients, but accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths.

Your Care Team

At the OSF Cancer Institute, you can expect a cancer care team that’s among the best in their field. They’ll work together across disciplines to treat your specific skin cancer. Your team will meet weekly to review individual patient cases and discuss treatment options. Your care team may include dermatology specialists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and surgeons.

These experts work closely with your primary care provider, as well as a full team of support services, including counselors, financial navigators and oncology dietitians.

Your dedicated nurse navigator will help schedule each appointment, coordinating between teams to ensure you receive care seamlessly, while wrapped in support.

Meet Our Providers

Specialty Clinics

The OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria offers additional specialist clinics, including:

High-Risk Genetic Clinic: Addresses hereditary cancer risks.
Palliative Care Clinic: Supports symptom management.

Treatments We Offer

Our highly experienced, compassionate care team provides a full range of treatment options. You’ll feel the expertise of the entire team from start to finish of your treatment. Depending on the type of skin cancer you have, those options may include:

Make an Appointment

Our cancer care team is waiting to connect you to care. Ask your provider for a referral or contact us by completing this appointment request form or calling 1-844-OSF 4-HOPE, 1-844-673-4467. We'll get started on the referral process right away.

If you're seeking care in Peoria, our team can connect your with an intake nurse for a telephone visit within one business day.

Learn More

Getting a second opinion is not only okay but also empowers you to make the best decisions for your health.

Request a Second Opinion