By THE HERALD-WHIG STAFF

HANNIBAL, Mo. -- Dr. Linda Cooke will open a full-service dermatology clinic on the Hannibal medical campus in early 2009.

Cooke, a board certified dermatologist, currently sees patients at the Hannibal Clinic. The new, larger space will allow her to provide care to both established and new patients.

"My goal is to provide the best dermatology care available," Cooke said. "I want every single patient to feel that they were not just treated, but were cared for and cared about."

In addition to providing the medical, surgical and aesthetic dermatology services she currently offers, Cooke's goal is to expand services to include and more aesthetic and dermatologist-directed spa services.

"I enjoy all aspects of dermatology, including the cosmetic component," Cooke said. "There are so many products, treatments and skin care regimens that it can be confusing for the consumer. As a board certified dermatologist, I will provide professional guidance, treatments and products that are scientifically based and clinically proven."

The new space also will allow Cooke to perform Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancers.

According to WebMD, Mohs micrographic surgery involves removing a skin cancer one layer at a time and examining those layers under a microscope immediately after they are removed. This procedure allows for a close examination of each layer of skin to detect cancer cells. It also allows a minimal amount of tissue to be removed while ensuring complete removal of all the cancer cells.

The 12,400-square-foot building will include 6,200 square feet available for lease. Separate waiting rooms for medical/surgical patients and cosmetic patients, as well as separate exits after surgery or cosmetic procedures, will be available.

Cooke says that by building new space customized to dermatology and her personal style, she hopes to improve patient flow, decrease wait times and improve patient satisfaction.

The Hannibal Clinic "is supportive of her desires to create her own practice," said Dr. Lent Johnson, medical director. "The clinic was very anxious for her to remain in Hannibal."

Dr. Susan Meidl, board certified dermatologist, will continue to serve dermatology patients at the Hannibal Clinic.

"My family and I are very happy in Hannibal," Cooke said. "I am grateful that I am able to stay in the area and excited to bring this state-of-the-art dermatology facility to Hannibal."