Can Medicare cover dermatology services?

In the U.S. alone, 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer by the time they are 70. If you or your Dermatology doctor are having concerns about a rash, mole, or skin spot you have, then you should not ignore the concerns. You might be recommended to see a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause, which could save your life. However, the costs for your care could become expensive without the proper insurance.

Before worries start to set in regarding costs for dermatology services, let’s discuss what all Medicare will cover.

Does Medicare cover Dermatology services?

Medicare Part B, which covers medical insurance, will typically cover medically necessary doctor visits if they are used to diagnose or treat medical conditions. For example, if you need medical assistance to treat your skin cancer, then Part B will cover your services, but you will be expected to pay your out-of-pocket costs. These out-of-pocket costs include your Part B deductible and coinsurance. 

However, if you require routine care, such as treatment for non-cancerous acne, Medicare will not cover those services.

Before treatment, confirm with your doctor or dermatologist if your dermatology care will be covered. If not, your out-of-pocket costs will be more extensive than your costs for the Part B deductible and coinsurance. Also, before you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you should ask your plan provider if dermatology services are covered. For the most part, Medicare Advantage Plans will provide the same coverage offered by Medicare Part A and Part B, but can also include additional coverage options. 

You will also need to find a dermatologist who accepts Medicare to receive coverage for any services or treatments that are medically necessary.

What else do Dermatologists do?

With our skin being the largest organ, we need to make sure we are defending it against anything harmful to protect our wellbeing and overall health. But, besides specializing in treating skin, dermatologists can look at other factors such as hair, nails, and mucous membrane disorders and diseases. 

Dermatologists also look at cosmetic treatments such as:

• Botox
• Dermal fillers
• Laser hair removal
• Skin tightening

Does Medicare cover Cosmetic procedures?

If you are searching for cosmetic procedures only, such as a treatment for wrinkles, you more than likely will not be covered by Medicare. Medicare is very limited to what cosmetic procedures it offers coverage for.

However, if you require cosmetic surgery because of an injury or to improve the function of a body part, you may receive coverage under Medicare. You can also receive coverage if you require breast reconstruction after having a mastectomy. 

Want to know more about Medicare coverage?

If you are turning 65 but are unsure of which Medicare plan is right for you, we can help. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and we will ensure that you find the coverage you need with the budget you have. Give us a call now at 662-844-3300. Our experienced insurance agents work for you, not the insurance company.