edited by 
Skin is the largest organ of the human body, acting as a crucial barrier that protects our internal systems. It is also a significant indicator of overall health and well-being, often revealing signs of underlying medical conditions. Dermatological care, therefore, is a key component of your overall health.
Navigating the complexities of Medicare coverage for dermatology can be a lot for any Medicare recipient. This guide aims to demystify the topic of dermatological services covered by Medicare, shedding light on what services you can access and how to go about it.
Understanding Dermatological Services Covered by Medicare
When it comes to skin healthcare, the scope of Medicare coverage can vary depending on the medical necessity of the service you require. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the dermatological services Medicare covers and the ones it does not.
Medicare Part B covers services that prevent, diagnose, and treat skin disorders or specific medical conditions. Medicare does not cover skin cancer screenings as an included, preventive benefit. It will only cover biopsies and other tests if your doctor finds a suspicious growth or suspects skin cancer.
Doctors often refer patients to a dermatologist who accepts Medicare for more in-depth testing of potentially cancerous growths. Medicare Part B may cover the cost of the referral visit, subject to your paying the Part B deductible and a 20% coinsurance.
Medicare usually covers treatment for a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Skin cancer
- Rosacea
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Malignant mole removal
- Rashes
- Allergy testing
A critical distinction to make here is between cosmetic procedures and medical dermatology services. Medicare generally does not cover cosmetic services that are not medically necessary. Examples include elective eyelid surgery, Botox for cosmetic reasons, and the removal of benign skin lesions.
Medicare Part B Coverage for Dermatological Services
Medicare Part B covers routine office visits to a dermatologist for diagnostic evaluations or treatments. Biopsies to investigate suspicious moles, growths, or skin conditions are usually covered as well.
Cryotherapy, a procedure that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze off warts or precancerous growths, is often covered if deemed medically necessary. Excisions, or surgical removals, of malignant or otherwise problematic skin lesions are also generally covered. The coverage typically depends on the medical necessity, so you might need documentation and prior authorization for some treatments.
Once you’ve met the Part B deductible, you’re generally responsible for a 20% coinsurance of the Medicare-approved amount for most doctor services, including those provided by a dermatologist. If you have supplemental coverage like a Medigap plan, it may cover some or all of these costs, depending on your plan details.
Preventive Screenings and Skin Cancer Checks
In most cases, preventive screenings for skin cancer are only covered if your primary care physician determines that you are at high risk for skin cancer. This can be due to factors such as family history, personal history of skin cancer, or other medical conditions that make you susceptible.
If your healthcare provider identifies a suspicious mole or growth during a regular office visit, Medicare Part B would generally cover further investigations such as biopsies. If a healthcare provider suspects or diagnoses skin cancer, Medicare will usually cover the costs of subsequent treatments, such as surgical excisions or other medically necessary procedures.
It’s important to differentiate between a general check-up and an investigation triggered by a specific symptom or finding. The former may not cover preventive skin cancer screenings, but in the latter, Medicare kicks in when there’s a medically justifiable reason to conduct more in-depth tests or procedures.
Dermatological Procedures and Tests Covered by Medicare
Understanding the types of dermatological procedures and tests covered by Medicare is an important aspect of managing your skin health. Here are some common dermatological procedures covered by Medicare:
- Mole removal: Medicare Part B covers mole removal if healthcare providers suspect the moles are cancerous or problematic in some way.
- Excisions: If determined to be medically necessary, Medicare covers the surgical removal of malignant or problematic skin lesions.
- Steroid injections: Based on a beneficiary’s medical necessity, Medicare may cover conditions like severe acne or psoriasis,
- Light and immunotherapy: Treatments like light therapy for psoriasis and immunotherapy for severe eczema may qualify for coverage under Medicare Part B, depending on medical necessity.
- Skin tag and wart removal: Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) might cover the removal of skin tags and warts if they cause you pain or bleed continuously.
Diagnostic Tests Covered by Medicare
Before exploring the specific tests that Medicare covers, note that a primary healthcare provider usually must provide a referral and deem the test medically necessary for diagnosing or treating a condition.
- Patch tests: These are generally covered when trying to identify a specific allergen causing skin irritation or other symptoms.
- Allergy testing: Tests involving pricking, scratching, or puncturing the skin, also known as percutaneous tests, are usually covered if deemed necessary for treatment.
- Biopsies: If you need to investigate suspicious growths or skin conditions, Medicare usually covers procedures like shave biopsies, punch biopsies, or excisional biopsies.
- Full body skin exam: While routine full-body skin exams are not covered, Medicare pays for skin exams following a biopsy or when they are directly related to diagnosing or treating a specific illness or symptom.
Dermatological Treatments and Prescription Medications
Topical medications, which are commonly prescribed for various skin conditions, are covered under Medicare Part D plans. These plans include formularies or lists of covered medications that can vary from one plan to another. If you need a specific topical cream, ointment, or gel for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea, you’ll want to consult your Part D plan formulary. If your doctor deems a specific medication medically necessary and it’s included in the formulary, Medicare should provide some level of coverage for it.
If administered in an outpatient clinical setting, Medicare Part B may also cover phototherapy or light therapy treatments for conditions like psoriasis. It may not, however, cover at-home phototherapy devices.
By understanding how Medicare covers dermatological treatments and medications, you can make informed choices that support your skin health without causing financial strain. Here are some tips on finding affordable options for prescription dermatological medications through Medicare plans.
- Compare plans: During the Annual Enrollment Period, make sure to compare various Part D plans to find one that covers your specific medications.
- Consult your dermatologist: Discuss medication alternatives with your dermatologist. Sometimes a less expensive medication can be just as effective.
- Check for generic options: Generic medications are often less expensive but just as effective as brand-name drugs.
- Utilize mail-order pharmacies: Some plans offer discounts if you order a three-month supply of your medication.
- Extra help: If you meet certain income and resource limits, you might qualify for Extra Help, a program that assists with medication costs.
If you have further questions or need personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to contact CoverRight for a free consultation. We’re committed to helping you navigate your Medicare options effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover cosmetic procedures?
Medicare usually doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures unless a healthcare provider deems them medically necessary. For example, Medicare may cover eyelid surgery if excess skin is impairing your vision. It’s necessary to consult your healthcare provider for an accurate assessment of what’s considered medically necessary in your specific case.
What skin conditions are considered medically necessary?
Medically necessary skin conditions often include, but are not limited to, skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and severe acne that is resistant to other forms of treatment. Infections, rashes, and allergic reactions may also fall under this category, depending on severity and impact on quality of life.
Can I choose my dermatologist?
Yes, you can choose your dermatologist, but it’s important to make sure they accept Medicare. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly if you choose a dermatologist who is not in your Medicare plan network. Always consult your plan’s directory or customer service to verify if it includes your chosen dermatologist.
