Most doctors don’t set out to become skin cancer clinicians, but rather arrive there after a series of unexpected turns. In this episode of Life by A Thousand Cuts, Dr Mostafa "Moz" Khalafalla shares how an unconventional career path led him into skin cancer medicine, and why it has become the most satisfying part of his work.
Tune in to the conversation with A/Prof Tony Dicker, as Dr Moz shares:
Why there is no linear path into skin cancer — From obstetrics and emergency medicine to general practice, Dr Moz reflects on how each step shaped his clinical confidence and decision-making.
How dermoscopy changed everything — The dermatoscope as a diagnostic tool, the early learning curve, and why diagnostics (not just surgery) remain the most rewarding part of skin cancer work.
Balancing procedures with relationships — How skin cancer medicine allows long-term patient relationships without the intensity of full-time general practice.
Educational social media, done carefully — How Dr Moz uses short-form video to counter misinformation, with clear boundaries around consent, de-identification and medico-legal risk.
This is a thoughtful conversation for GPs interested in dermoscopy, skin cancer medicine, and how clinical practice continues to evolve.
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Or explore more educational content in Skin Cancer Surgery.
This podcast series is designed to help you enhance your clinical decision-making, procedural skills, and confidence in skin cancer management. Focus on real-world cases, surgical techniques and tips, journal article reviews, diagnostic and management insights, and guest interviews with GPs and specialists.
Listen to the previous episode: Case study: A pragmatic approach to facial closure in frail patients
Associate Professor (Skin Cancer) & Course Coordinator MMed (Skin Cancer), The University of Queensland
Tony Dicker has practised full-time Skin Cancer Medicine in Melbourne since 2004, and previously practised in Brisbane. He obtained his PhD from The University of Queensland in molecular biology of skin cancer with Professor Ian Frazer's group at Princess Alexandra Hospital. He then spent three years as a dermatology registrar at the Royal Brisbane and Princess Alexandra Hospitals.
Dr Moz is an Australian trained Procedural General Practitioner with extensive experience and a passion for skin cancer and women's health. He graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Medicine/Surgery and spent years working in procedural medicine before turning his keen eye and expert skills towards caring for the skin and appearance of Australians. Dr Moz has completed a Masters in Skin Cancer which is the highest postgraduate degree available in Australia currently. He also teaches advanced surgical skills through one of the largest GP training organisations in the skin cancer field.
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