Dr Moz’s path into skin cancer medicine

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.

• From learner to teacher — Navigating impostor syndrome, staying clinically sharp, and the responsibility that comes with teaching peers and the public.

This is a thoughtful conversation for GPs interested in dermoscopy, skin cancer medicine, and how clinical practice continues to evolve.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this podcast here.

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓  NEW Micro-Course: Introduction to the Dermatoscope
Led by A/Prof Tony Dicker, this short course introduces the dermatoscope as the clinician’s key diagnostic tool for skin examination — a practical foundation for those beginning their journey in skin cancer detection.
✅ Learn how to use the dermatoscope and capture clinical images.
🎖️ 9.5 hours CPD  •  Online  •   $195
👉 Learn more & enrol >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Skin Cancer
Explore our university-assured, structured pathway to elevate your knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
➡️ Explore full program

Life by a Thousand Cuts 

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.