DOES HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS COVER DERMATOLOGY TREATMENT

In India, the prevalence of skin diseases has increased significantly over the past few years for various reasons, such as an increase in pollution, the effect of ultraviolet rays, poor lifestyle, and global warming. More people pay a visit to a dermatologist now than ever before, as skin diseases can cause a great deal of discomfort. Furthermore, skin issues can worsen if left unattended. It is, therefore, important to undergo the right and best treatment to address dermatological problems as quickly as possible.



 

Visits to dermatologists have increased multifold in recent times. While some people consult with a dermatologist once in a while, others meet with a skin specialist on a regular basis. This prompts many individuals to ask the question "is dermatology covered by insurance?" Read on to find out more about the coverage of health insurance plans when it comes to treatments related to skin diseases.

What Is Dermatology

Dermatology is a branch of medicine that is focused on diagnosing and treating skin illnesses and disorders. A dermatologist or skin specialist recommends a therapy after identifying the skin ailment suffered by a patient. Dermatologists deal with skin problems such as cancer, aging, and aesthetic aspects of skin, hair, nails, as well as fat and vaginal and oral membranes.

Coverage of Skin Disease Treatments in Health Insurance

Dermatology treatments are not limited to correcting minor skin problems such as acne, scars, and rashes. It also involves the treatment of more serious skin issues such as cancer and dermatitis. Moreover, dermatology treatments may involve medication or surgery. Skin problems may appear to be minor when compared to other medical issues. However, they are as worrying as other medical conditions. Furthermore, the treatments for many skin disorders are expensive and, hence, are included in the health insurance coverage provided by most insurers.

The extent of coverage provided often varies from one health insurance company to another. Serious dermatological disorders are often covered by critical sickness insurance, such as consultation insurance, cancer insurance, etc. The coverage offered depends on the nature of the disease. Besides, most plans provide coverage only if hospitalization is involved for treatment or surgery. OPD consultation and daycare procedures are often excluded from coverage. However, some health insurers may cover costs related to hospitalization, OPD consultations, and daycare procedures. That’s why it is important to read through the terms and conditions before buying a health insurance cover.

Dermatology Treatments Covered Under Health Insurance

Health insurance plans offered by most insurers cover the following treatments:

• Skin Cancer Treatment
• Skin Cancer Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Skin Viral Diseases
• Acne
• Rashes
• Skin Fungal Infection Treatment
• Skin Allergies
• Psoriasis
• Poison Ivy Rash
• Keloid Scars
• Port Wine Stains

Skin cancer comes under the pre-existing diseases part of the health insurance policy purchased by an individual. In such a situation, the policyholder cannot file any claims for a certain period of time. It usually ranges from one to five years. If a pre-existing condition does not cause skin cancer, the waiting time is reduced to two years. If skin cancer is covered by a critical illness insurance plan, the waiting period is further reduced to 90 days.

Read More | TATA AIG HEALTH INSURANCE

Dermatology Treatments Not Covered Under Health Insurance

The following skin treatments are often not covered by health insurance plans as they are not considered acute health problems.

• Non-accidental Plastic surgery
• Cosmetic surgery
• Botox
• Fillers
• Tattoo Removal
• Chemical Peels
• Facials
• Microdermabrasion

Endnotes

The incidence of skin problems may have increased for various reasons. However, it is important to take all possible precautions to prevent their occurrence. Furthermore, to be on the safe side, it is highly recommended that you purchase a health insurance policy as it covers the cost of both medical and surgical treatment.

Read More | HDFC ERGO OPTIMA SECURE HEALTH INSURANCE

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q1. What is Dermatology?

Dermatology is a branch of medicine and it involves the study, diagnosis, and management of health conditions that affect the skin, nails, hair, and membranes. A dermatologist, on the other hand, is a health professional who specializes in treating various skin conditions.

Q2. Does health insurance cover dermatology treatments?

Yes, health insurance plans provided by insurers in India do cover the cost of treating most skin conditions, including scar removal, allergies, keloid scars, skin cancer, acne, and more. The policy may also cover surgical procedures and treatment using medicines. However, treatment for skin problems that are not deemed acute health conditions is not covered.

Q3. What types of skin treatments are not covered by health insurance plans in India?

Cosmetic surgery, botox treatment, non-accidental plastic surgery, tattoo removal, fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and facials are some of the treatments that are not covered by health insurance.

Q4. What is the waiting period to become eligible for skin cancer treatment coverage under the critical illness policy?

The waiting period to get skin cancer treatment coverage under the critical illness policy is 90 days.