What Makes a Successful Mohs Day?

Being a great Mohs Technician involves more than technical ability. You also need Accountability, Integrity, and Communication skills. These skills are key to creating a great team atmosphere between the Mohs Technician and the Mohs Physician.

Accountability- Don't just be on time, Be Early. If for some reason you're stuck in traffic or there is a delay, ALWAYS call ahead. It usually takes around 15 minutes for complete set up. Try to set up the same way each time so that every tool is in it's place. This allows for faster slide processing.

Make friends with the Mohs nurses. They can give you updates on where the Doctor is in their "Mohs loop." (whether they take all specimens first or check slides in between) When there is down time, always be a step ahead of the doctor. Clean off your used discs so that they are ready for extra levels, make slide labels, or refill your cry-ac with liquid nitrogen. Never leave the office until you ask the Mohs Surgeon if all patients are clear.

Integrity- Integrity means taking pride in your work and giving the patient and Mohs surgeon the best of your ability.

If in doubt about a specimen or anything Mohs related, ALWAYS ask. Did the specimen chunk out so you have to spend a few extra minutes to fix it? Let the Doctor know! They can use that time to do something else. Remember, You and the Doctor are on the same team so be honest when something happens. Check your work under the microscope. Keep your appearance and uniform clean. Always give your best.

Communication- This is one of the most important skills on a Mohs Day. Say hello to the Doctor and staff. Sometimes we forget that the Mohs Surgeon is a person too. Ask about their weekend, pets, upcoming trips... When they get to know you, it makes you familiar, and you will become a technician they will want to see around more often.

Let them know if a specimen is taking a little longer than usual. Ask questions if you aren't sure about how a specimen is oriented. How many sections do they prefer? Remember we want to make the Doctor feel as comfortable with us as possible.


Being a great Mohs Technician involves skill, accountability, integrity, and communication. With these skills you will be able to go from office to office and always leave a positive impact.

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