Rick Jordan
Understanding Medicare's Coverage for Skin Cancer Screenings
The warm embrace of summer is just around the corner, bringing with it longer days and more sun exposure. For many, particularly those over the age of 65, this increase in sun exposure can elevate concerns about skin cancer—a common but highly treatable condition when caught early. Fortunately, Medicare provides coverage for many essential services related to skin cancer detection and treatment, giving you access to care and peace of mind.
Medically Necessary Services
- Medicare covers necessary doctor visits if a case of skin cancer is suspected.
- This includes biopsies and related treatments if a physician deems them medically necessary.
Cost Sharing and Deductibles
- Be aware of cost-sharing; typically, patients pay a portion after meeting their deductible.
- Contact your plan provider to understand your specific out-of-pocket costs.
Annual Wellness Visit
- Medicare covers wellness visits, which can include preventive care discussions.
- Use this time to talk to your doctor about any skin concerns you may have.
Self-Exams and Routine Checks
- Routine full-body skin exams are not covered unless a doctor identifies a suspicious lesion.
- Perform regular self-checks and report any changes to your physician promptly.
What Medicare Doesn't Cover
- Cosmetic procedures, like the removal of benign moles or skin tags, are not covered.
- Original Medicare does not cover sunscreen or preventive skincare products; check if your Medicare Advantage plan offers additional benefits.
- Experimental or non-FDA-approved treatments are excluded from coverage.
Being proactive about your skin health is crucial. If you have any questions about your Medicare coverage, don’t hesitate to contact a Medicare advisor or your plan provider to clarify what’s included in your specific plan. Stay informed and stay healthy!