Does Medicare Cover Dermatology?

What Dermatology Procedures are Covered by Medicare?

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or Medicare Advantage (Part C) will cover treatments.

For example, Part A — known as hospital insurance — will cover inpatient surgeries or treatments related to skin cancer. Part B — known as medical insurance — will cover outpatient procedures (which is more commonly the case with skin cancer).

Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare and provides the same coverages as Parts A and B. Some Medicare Advantage plans will also offer dermatology coverage that goes beyond Parts A and B coverage.

Does Medicare cover dermatology skin check?

Original Medicare doesn’t cover an annual skin check, but it will cover an evaluation and/or testing if you or your physician discover something that needs further evaluation.

Medicare does not cover screening for skin cancer in asymptomatic people. It does, however, cover a physician visit initiated by a concerned patient who has noticed, for example, a change in the color of a mole or a new skin growth.”

Looking for a dermatologist that accepts Medicare? Medicare.gov provides a search tool for finding a Medicare-approved dermatologist that can address your concern.

You also may be wondering, “Does Medicaid cover dermatology?” Generally speaking, Medicaid covers dermatology much like Medicare does, although each state has its own plan for administering Medicaid.

Does Medicare Require a Referral to See a Dermatologist?

If you have Original Medicare Part B, you don’t need a referral to see a dermatologist. You may need a referral on specific Medicare Advantage plans, but some Medicare Advantage plans may cover routine annual skin checks as a preventive service.