Understanding Your Insurance Plan and Dermatology Coverage

Much like purchasing a car, I recommend that patients carefully review their insurance options before choosing one.

Over the years, I have noticed that patients gravitate towards insurance plans with the lowest premiums, but with the amount of care needed for a given year, they end up paying a lot more out of pocket. In the era of high deductible plans, where patients must pay a certain amount out of pocket before insurance companies take the remaining cost, patients are often shocked by what their insurance plans do not cover. Patients often have a separate deductible amount for preventative visits, regular visits, prescriptions, and procedures.

Additionally, reading the fine print of insurance contracts sometimes reveal high co-pays or co-insurance percentages. It’s important for patients to keep in mind that insurance companies and Medicare actually force physicians to accept the negotiated contracted rates. This means that if a physician office discounted medical care, they would be in violation of their contracts with insurance companies and with Medicare.

Take charge of your health and pick the best plan for you and your loved ones.