Florida residents have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country, and a major dermatology practice is taking action with free screening events to catch cases early. On May 4, Suncoast Skin Solutions and BayCare Health System will offer free skin cancer screenings at four Tampa Bay hospitals in recognition of Melanoma Monday, an annual awareness initiative focused on early detection.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and Florida's year-round sun exposure puts residents at elevated risk. The partnership between Suncoast Skin Solutions and BayCare aims to reach people who may not have a regular dermatologist or have gone years without a skin check. These public screening events are designed to fill a critical gap in preventive care.

Why Are Free Skin Cancer Screenings Important?

Early detection remains the most effective defense against skin cancer, yet many people delay or skip regular skin checks. Public health initiatives like Melanoma Monday help identify cases before they progress to more serious stages. The screening locations include St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa, Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, St. Anthony's Hospital in St. Petersburg, and Winter Haven Hospital.

"Florida has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country, and too many people still go years without a skin check. Partnering with BayCare on Melanoma Monday, supporting alopecia research, and showing up for community events is how a dermatology practice earns its place in the neighborhoods it serves," said Dr. Christopher Ewanowski.

Dr. Christopher Ewanowski, Founder, Suncoast Skin Solutions

Dr. Ewanowski, founder of Suncoast Skin Solutions, has been actively involved in educating the next generation of dermatology providers. His practice operates 30 locations across Florida and is staffed by board-certified dermatologists and over 90 providers who specialize in skin cancer detection, Mohs surgery (a precise surgical technique for removing skin cancer), and individualized patient care.

How to Prepare for a Skin Cancer Screening?

• Wear Accessible Clothing: Choose clothing that allows easy access to all areas of your skin, including your scalp, back, and areas between your toes where melanoma can develop.
• Arrive Early: Come to your appointment with time to spare, as free screening events may have wait times. BayCare will share specific appointment times and registration details ahead of the May 4 event.
• Bring Documentation: Have your insurance information ready if you have coverage, though these screenings are free regardless of insurance status, including for uninsured residents.
• Note Any Changes: Before your appointment, observe any moles, spots, or skin changes you've noticed recently so you can point them out to the dermatologist.

Beyond Melanoma Monday, Suncoast Skin Solutions is committed to ongoing community health initiatives. The practice is assembling a team for the Walk for Alopecia on September 26, which raises awareness of alopecia areata and other forms of hair loss. The practice also connects interested patients with alopecia clinical research, giving patients early access to emerging therapies.

Additional community events scheduled through early summer include a May 7 golf tournament at Bardmoor Country Club where a Suncoast Skin Solutions provider will perform skin checks, with proceeds benefiting Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. On June 12, the practice will support the Skin Cancer Foundation's mobile screening initiative at the New Tampa YMCA, offering free skin cancer checks to community members, including uninsured residents.

For Florida residents concerned about skin cancer risk, these free screening opportunities represent an accessible entry point to professional dermatological care. Whether you have a regular dermatologist or are seeking your first professional skin evaluation, early detection through screenings like these can make a significant difference in health outcomes. BayCare will share specific appointment times and registration details for the May 4 Melanoma Monday screenings ahead of the event.