What Medicare Covers for Skin Cancer Screenings

As Summer Approaches, Prioritize Your Skin Health

With the arrival of summer, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. However, with increased sun exposure comes the heightened risk of skin cancer, a concern especially pertinent for those over 65. While skin cancer is unfortunately common, the good news is that early detection can significantly improve outcomes. For those covered by Medicare, there's reassurance in knowing that many essential services for detecting and treating skin cancer are covered, giving you peace of mind and access to care.

Understanding Medicare Coverage for Skin Cancer

• Medicare covers medically necessary services that aid in the detection and treatment of skin cancer. This includes doctor visits, biopsies, and related treatments if there's a suspected case.
• It's important to remember that cost-sharing is a part of the process — typically, you'll pay a portion of the costs after meeting your deductible.
• Medicare covers preventive care discussions during your annual wellness visit. This is a great opportunity to bring up any concerns about skin changes or aspects of your skin health.
• Routine full-body skin exams are not covered unless there's a recognized suspicious lesion. This underlines the importance of performing self-checks and promptly reporting any changes to your physician.
• While Medicare provides robust coverage for necessary medical procedures, cosmetic procedures such as the removal of benign moles or skin tags are not covered.
• Sunscreen and preventive skincare products fall outside Original Medicare's coverage, but some Medicare Advantage plans might offer additional benefits. Be sure to check the specific details of your plan.
• Note that experimental or non-FDA-approved treatments are also excluded from Medicare's coverage.

Stay Proactive About Your Skin Health

As we soak in the summer sun, it's crucial to remain proactive about our skin health. Contact a Medicare advisor or your plan provider to clarify what's included in your plan regarding skin cancer screenings and treatments. Early detection and preventive care can make all the difference, keeping you safe and healthy while you enjoy the warmer months.