Medicaid may cover dermatology services in some states as an optional benefit. But because acupuncture is not a mandatory Medicaid benefit, it may not be covered in all states. 

Each state has two sets of Medicaid benefits: those that are required by the federal government to be offered (mandatory) and those that the state chooses to offer on its own (optional). 

Dermatology is not a required benefit, so whether or not dermatology is covered by Medicaid is up to each individual state Medicaid program to decide.

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When might Medicaid pay for dermatology?

If your state Medicaid program covers any dermatology treatments, you will likely need to get a referral letter from your primary care doctor stating that the dermatologist treatment is medically necessary.

If the condition is something like simple acne, there’s less of a chance that the treatment will be approved for Medicaid coverage because it’s likely to be considered a cosmetic treatment rather than something that’s necessary for your health. 

Some of the skin conditions that may be considered medically necessary – and therefore may in some instances be eligible for Medicaid coverage – include skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema and severe birthmarks.

If dermatology is covered by Medicaid in your state, you will need to see a dermatologist who accepts Medicaid. If the dermatologist does not accept Medicaid, you may be charged more or not receive any coverage at all.  

How do I find a dermatologist who accepts Medicaid?

To find out if dermatology is covered by Medicaid where you live, contact your state Medicaid program directly to ask if dermatology is covered and for any additional information you need to know about the benefits that are covered. 

If dermatology is covered in your state, your state’s Medicaid website may have a doctor search tool that allows you to find doctors near you who accept Medicaid. According to Doctor.com, nearly 6,000 dermatologists in the U.S. accept Medicaid.

Medicaid-Medicare plans and dermatology

Some Medicaid beneficiaries are also eligible for Medicare. Some “dual-eligible” beneficiaries may be able to enroll in a certain type of Medicare Advantage plan called a Dual-eligible Special Needs Plan, or D-SNP.

These plans are designed specifically for those who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, and they can include benefits that are not traditionally offered by either Medicare or Medicaid. 

If you are eligible for Medicare, speak to a licensed insurance agent to find out if Dual-eligible Special Needs Plans are available in your area and how they might cover dermatology and other benefits.