FAQ

What types of events does The Sun Bus attend? 

The Sun Bus attends large community and statewide events, such as fairs, trade shows, and festivals, as well as working with schools, municipalities, and businesses to deliver free skin screenings, sun safety education and free sunscreen. 

Where does The Sun Bus operate?

The Sun Bus operates in Texas, Nevada, Georgia, Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Wyoming, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. We also provide our services with and without the bus so we are able to cover more territories without the bus. Check out our Calendar of Events to find a location near you. 

What does The Sun Bus provide at events?

The Sun Bus offers:

• Free skin screenings performed by a board-certified dermatologist, dermatology physician assistant, or dermatology nurse practitioner (each with at least two years of medical dermatology experience).
• Sun safety and skin cancer education materials for all attendees.
• Free EltaMD sunscreen, Heliocare, and Cobey Person skincare products.
• Giveaways and educational items generously provided by our sponsors.
  

How do I schedule a skin screening?

Sign up for a free Sun Bus screening at a public event. Appointment links open 2–3 weeks beforehand. Walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis. Check our Calendar of Events for locations.

How does skin screening with The Sun Bus work?

Sign up online, check-in on site, complete a consent form, and meet your provider for your skin check. You can choose a full-body exam or specific areas and privacy gowns will be provided. Board-certified dermatologists, certified Dermatology Physician Assistants (PAs), or Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (NPs) will examine your skin. You can access your results via a secure portal or a printed copy. If a suspicious spot is found, staff will provide follow-up instructions. The Sun Bus does not perform biopsies or treatments, screenings are completely free and focused on early detection and prevention. Click HERE to watch a video demonstration.

How many people can be screened per hour?

We screen around 8 people per hour. On an 8-hr/day, we typically screen 60-65 people. Although, with more providers, we screened 101 people in 10 hrs! We do not provide screening past 5 pm.

What does free skin screening mean? 

We do not charge you or your insurance for the screening. 

What happens if a suspicious lesion is found during my screening, and what are the benefits?

• If a suspicious lesion is identified during your screening, our provider will explain the findings and guide you on next steps. You can find a dermatologist near you using any of the three provider search tools listed under "Find A Dermatology Clinician" tab on our website.
• Your visit notes and screening chart are available through your secure patient portal. We’ll provide instructions on how to access the portal or print your notes if you prefer a paper copy.
• Because a suspicious lesion was found during your screening, you may be able to schedule a dermatology appointment faster than someone without a prior screening.
• While The Sun Bus does not provide direct referrals, our team will make every effort to help you locate a nearby dermatology provider if you have difficulty finding an appointment.
  

How does The Sun Bus educate on sun safety?

We use UV and advanced cameras to reveal hidden sun damage and provide clear, practical tips on sun safety and skin cancer prevention.

What are the most common skin cancers?

The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma (both are often grouped as nonmelanoma skin cancers) and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancers. To learn about each type, click HERE.

What are the early warning signs of skin cancer?

The first signs of skin cancer can vary depending on the type, but here are general warning signs to look out for:

• New growths or sores that don’t heal
• Changes in existing moles or skin spots
• Unusual sensations like itching, tenderness, or bleeding of a skin lesion
  

How do I volunteer?

We offer several avenues for volunteerism:

1. At events: You can volunteer with The Sun Bus as a public educator, helping with outreach, event support, and sun safety education. No medical background is needed. You will be trained at events. 
2. Remotely: We are always looking for marketing, communications, photography, and legal volunteers. If you are able to donate your time and you are a skilled professional or an intern in any of these topics, we are very interested.
3. Public Health Research: If you would like to take a gap year or are working on a project for your school, we want to hear from you.

In all these cases, to get involved, email admin@thesunbus.org or complete the volunteer form on the Get Involved page.

How do I volunteer as a clinician?

Join Us in Bringing Skin Health to the Community. As a clinician, your expertise can make a lasting difference. We invite board-certified dermatologists, dermatology PAs, and dermatology NPs with at least two years of experience in medical dermatology to partner with The Sun Bus in providing free skin screenings and sun safety education to communities across the state. Your time and expertise help us detect skin cancers early, promote prevention, and educate the public about sun-safe behaviors. To volunteer, please contact admin@thesunbus.org or complete the Volunteer Physician Sign-Up Form.

The Sun Bus operates primarily during daytime community events, typically between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on both weekdays and weekends. Service hours vary by event, and scheduling is flexible based on your availability. Meals are provided during service.

Is skin cancer becoming more common? What are some of the Risk Factors?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with 1 in 5 Americans likely to develop the disease during their lifetime. The most common risk factor for developing skin cancer is exposure to harmful UV radiation from the sun. To learn about the other risk factors for skin cancer, Click Here.

What is a Sun Bus Private Event?

Organizations or corporations can hire The Sun Bus to provide services exclusively for employees. About 2–3 weeks before the event, we send a private registration link to the company coordinator or wellness supervisor so employees can book appointments at their preferred times.

What is a Sponsored Sun Bus Event?

Organizations or corporations can sponsor a Sun Bus event for public service. Sponsorship levels determine how the organization’s contribution is recognized on event flyers, at the event, and in other community communications. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact admin@thesunbus.org.

Cost for Sun Bus Events

Event costs vary based on location, travel distance, event duration, and access complexity. Please contact admin@thesunbus.org to discuss feasibility, planning, and pricing.