08/26/2026
You may have heard about proposed Medicare cuts, but what could they actually mean for dermatology patients?
Under the current system, if a Medicare patient comes in for an evaluation and their dermatologist determines that a medically necessary procedure should also be performed that day, the office visit and procedure may each be reimbursed separately when they meet Medicare requirements.
Under the proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, the highest-cost qualifying service would be paid at 100%, while additional qualifying same-day services would be paid at 50%.
For dermatology practices, this matters because the resources required to provide that care, including trained staff, medical supplies, equipment, exam rooms, and administrative support, remain even when reimbursement decreases.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association estimates that the proposed changes could result in an approximately 11% reduction in Medicare payments to dermatologists in 2027. The AAD is concerned that reductions of this size could place additional pressure on clinic capacity, appointment availability, and timely access to specialty care, including the evaluation of suspicious skin lesions.
These changes are still proposed and have not yet taken effect.
The AAD is encouraging dermatologists, practice staff, and patients to learn more and contact Congress about protecting sustainable access to Medicare dermatology care.
🔗 Learn more and take action through the link in our bio.
