Dermatological health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially as we age. Skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer require timely and effective treatment.
For individuals enrolled in Medicare, understanding how to access dermatology services covered under their plan is essential.
This guide provides comprehensive information on Medicare coverage for dermatology and practical steps to find a dermatologist who accepts Medicare near you.
Understanding Medicare and Its Coverage
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, though it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific conditions. Medicare is divided into several parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services, including medically necessary dermatology services.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private companies that contract with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits, and often include additional benefits.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Adds prescription drug coverage to Original Medicare and some Medicare Cost Plans.
In 2025, the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is $185.00, with an annual deductible of $257.
Medicare Coverage for Dermatology Services
Medicare Part B covers dermatology services that are deemed medically necessary. This includes diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions such as:
- Skin cancer
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Acne
- Skin infections
- Suspicious moles or lesions
However, Medicare does not cover cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels for aesthetic purposes or treatments for wrinkles, unless they are medically necessary.
Steps to Find a Medicare-Accepting Dermatologist Near You
Finding the right dermatologist is about more than proximity—it’s about trust, transparency, and being seen by someone who understands your skin and your coverage. Thankfully, if you’re covered under Medicare, there are several smart and simple ways to locate a qualified specialist without all the runaround.
Let’s walk through the most effective steps for pinpointing a dermatologist who accepts Medicare near you—and why each one matters:
1. Use the Medicare.gov “Care Compare” Tool
Think of this as your first-class ticket to finding in-network providers. The Medicare.gov Care Compare platform is the official, government-backed directory for all Medicare-approved healthcare professionals and facilities.
- Just type in “dermatologist,” enter your zip code, and hit search.
- From there, you can filter your options by distance, patient ratings, hospital affiliation, and other details that actually make a difference.
It’s fast, free, and gives you reliable data, without relying on third-party reviews or outdated search results.
2. Call Medicare Directly for Support
If websites aren’t your thing, speaking directly to a Medicare representative can be extremely helpful, especially if you’re not sure how your plan handles dermatology visits.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), and a live agent can help you identify Medicare-participating dermatologists in your area.
- Be sure to have your Medicare number and current zip code ready.
Bonus tip: Ask if any dermatologists near you offer special programs or preventative care initiatives for older adults.
3. Explore Your Medicare Advantage Plan’s Network
If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), you have access to a more curated network of providers, and you’ll often save money by staying in-network.
- Log in to your insurance provider’s member portal to search their provider directory.
- Some plans even offer mobile apps with GPS-based tools that let you find specialists nearby in real-time.
Just remember: out-of-network visits could come with higher fees, so it’s worth confirming coverage before booking.
4. Ask for Referrals from Your Primary Care Physician
Primary care providers often work closely with dermatologists and can refer you to a trusted specialist who accepts Medicare.
- A referral doesn’t just help you skip the guesswork—it may also be required by your Medicare plan before seeing a specialist.
- Many times, primary care teams can even schedule the dermatology appointment for you while you’re still in their office.
This route also helps build continuity in your care, as your dermatologist will already have access to your medical history through your primary provider.
5. Search Reputable Third-Party Directories
While you should always confirm with your insurance, popular medical directories like:
- Zocdoc
- Healthgrades
- Vitals
- WebMD Physician Directory
They can help you filter by “Medicare accepted” and read real patient reviews. Many of these platforms also allow online booking and show which providers are accepting new patients.
Pro tip: Look for dermatologists who specialize in medical dermatology (not just cosmetic) to ensure your visit aligns with what Medicare will cover.
6. Call Local Dermatology Offices Directly
Old-school, yes—but incredibly effective:
- Simply call and ask: “Do you accept Medicare for medical dermatology visits?”
- Be clear that your visit is medically necessary (e.g., mole check, skin cancer screening, eczema treatment).
- Ask if they’ll verify your coverage in advance, or if they can recommend another provider if they’re not in-network.
Receptionists deal with these questions daily—they’ll either confirm right away or direct you to someone who can.
7. Check with Local Hospitals or Medical Centers
If your area has a teaching hospital or university-affiliated medical center, chances are they have a dermatology department that accepts Medicare.
- These facilities may also have shorter waitlists and more affordable rates.
- Additionally, larger medical centers often offer bundled services—like dermatology and endocrinology working together—which can be helpful for more complex conditions.
Even if you’re not a current patient of that hospital, you can often be seen as a Medicare-covered outpatient.
Bonus Tip: Always Double-Check Before You Go
Before your appointment, always call the dermatologist’s office to reconfirm:
- They accept your specific Medicare plan (Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage)
- Your reason for the visit qualifies as medically necessary under your plan
- Any referral or pre-authorization is in place if required
A five-minute phone call today can prevent hours of stress and surprise bills down the line.
Considerations When Choosing a Dermatologist
When selecting a dermatologist under Medicare, consider the following factors:
- Specialization: Ensure the dermatologist specializes in treating your specific skin condition.
- Experience: Look for providers with extensive experience and positive patient outcomes.
- Location: Choose a conveniently located clinic to facilitate regular visits if necessary.
- Appointment Availability: Check the provider’s availability to ensure timely access to care.
- Patient Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and quality of care.
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Understanding Costs and Coverage
Under Medicare Part B, after meeting the annual deductible, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered services. If you have a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, it may cover some or all of these out-of-pocket costs.
For those with Medicare Advantage plans, costs can vary based on the specific plan’s terms, including copayments, coinsurance, and network restrictions. It’s essential to review your plan’s details or contact your plan provider for accurate information.
Promoting Skin Health with Metropolis Dermatology
At Metropolis Dermatology in Los Angeles, Pasadena, LA’s Westside (Brentwood), Costa Mesa, and San Jose, CA, we are committed to providing comprehensive dermatological care tailored to your needs. Our team of experienced professionals offers a range of services to address various skin conditions, ensuring you receive the highest quality care.
We understand the importance of accessible healthcare, and our clinic works with various insurance plans, including Medicare, to accommodate our patients. Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain healthy skin through personalized treatment plans and ongoing support.
For more information about our services and how we can assist you with your dermatological needs, please get in touch with us!