Medical Students Host Skin Cancer Screening Clinic

More than 100 people signed up for the event at Rocky Vista University's Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:18am

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A translucent X-ray photograph showing the internal structure of a human hand, with the bones and veins glowing against a dark background, conceptually representing the fragility and importance of regular skin cancer screenings.A medical student-led skin cancer screening clinic aims to catch the disease early through regular community checkups and education.Billings Today

Students at Rocky Vista University's Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine hosted a skin cancer screening clinic on Saturday to help the community spot the disease early. The event was organized by the school's Dermatology Club and featured more than 100 participants receiving preliminary screenings from student volunteers, who then reported their findings to supervising physicians.

Why it matters

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, affecting millions of Americans each year. However, access to dermatology services can be limited, especially in rural areas. This clinic aimed to bridge that gap and provide an opportunity for early detection and education.

The details

The student-run clinic provided preliminary skin screenings, with volunteers reporting any suspicious findings to attending physicians who then conducted their own examinations. Participants learned about the ABCDEs of skin cancer - asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolution - which can help identify abnormal moles. The clinic also emphasized the importance of regular skin checks and using sunscreen to prevent sun damage.

  • The skin cancer screening clinic was held on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Matthew Schmeiser

President of Rocky Vista University's Dermatology Club, which organized the screening event.

Sandra Hensen

A community member who attended the clinic and has a family history of skin cancer.

Rocky Vista University's Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine

The medical school that hosted the skin cancer screening clinic for the local community.

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What they’re saying

“It's our largest organ, so we've got lots of surface area for things to go wrong.”

— Matthew Schmeiser, President of Rocky Vista University's Dermatology Club

“I have a brother that had a melanoma and I've had just a little precancerous thing over here. I am past 70 now and they recommend that you have skin tests.”

— Sandra Hensen

“The best sunscreen is the one that you'll actually wear.”

— Matthew Schmeiser, President of Rocky Vista University's Dermatology Club

What’s next

The medical students plan to continue hosting the skin cancer screening clinic annually to provide the community with regular access to dermatology services and early detection opportunities.

The takeaway

This student-led initiative demonstrates the value of proactive healthcare education and screening, especially in areas with limited access to specialized services. By empowering the community to be vigilant about skin health, the clinic aims to catch any potential issues early and prevent more serious outcomes.