As summer approaches, many of us look forward to spending more time in the sun. However, with increased sun exposure comes increased concern about skin cancer, particularly for those over the age of 65. While skin cancer is common, the good news is that early detection can significantly improve outcomes. Medicare provides coverage for many essential detection and treatment services, giving you peace of mind and access to care.

Medicare's Coverage for Skin Cancer Detection and Treatment

• Medicare covers medically necessary services for skin cancer detection, including doctor visits if there’s a suspected case, biopsies, and related treatments.
• Cost-sharing applies, meaning you'll typically pay a portion of the costs after meeting your deductible.
• During your annual wellness visit, you can discuss skin concerns with your doctor as part of the covered preventive care discussions.
• Routine full-body skin exams are not covered unless a suspicious lesion is identified by a doctor. This underscores the importance of conducting regular self-checks and reporting any changes to your physician.
• Cosmetic procedures, such as the removal of benign moles or skin tags, are not covered under Medicare.
• Original Medicare does not cover sunscreen or other preventive skincare products, but some Medicare Advantage plans might offer additional benefits. It's advisable to check the details of your plan.
• Experimental or non-FDA-approved treatments are excluded from Medicare coverage.

As you continue to enjoy your time in the sun, remember to be proactive about your skin health. Consider contacting a Medicare advisor or your plan provider to clarify what’s included in your specific plan, and ensure that you’re taking advantage of all the coverage available to you.