Skin Cancer Screenings: What Medicare Covers

As Summer Approaches, Let's Talk Sun Exposure and Skin Health

With summer just around the corner, spending more time in the sun becomes almost inevitable. For many, especially those over the age of 65, the warmer months come with an increased concern about skin cancer. While it's a common concern, the good news is that early detection of skin cancer can significantly improve outcomes. Medicare helps ease these worries by covering many essential detection and treatment services.

Understanding Medicare Coverage for Skin Cancer

• Medically Necessary Services: Medicare covers medically necessary services, including doctor visits for suspected skin cancer, biopsies, and related treatments.
• Cost-Sharing: Typically, patients are responsible for a portion of the costs after meeting their deductible.
• Annual Wellness Visit: Medicare covers discussions about skin concerns during your annual wellness visit. It's a great time to address any skin health worries with your doctor.
• Self-Checks Matter: Full-body skin exams are not routinely covered unless a suspicious lesion is identified by a doctor. This highlights the importance of regular self-checks and promptly reporting changes to your physician.
• Cosmetic Procedures Exclusion: Medicare doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures such as the removal of benign moles or skin tags.
• Medicare Advantage Plans: Original Medicare does not cover preventive skincare products or sunscreen, but some Medicare Advantage plans might offer additional benefits. It's wise to check your specific plan’s details.
• Experimental Treatments: Non-FDA-approved or experimental treatments are generally excluded from coverage under Medicare.

Stay Proactive About Your Skin Health

Being proactive about skin health is vital. If you have questions about your Medicare plan and the coverage it provides for skin cancer detection and treatment, consider contacting a Medicare advisor or your plan provider for more information. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.