Is Superficial Radiation Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Superficial radiation therapy (SRT) is generally covered by most insurance policies. This also includes Medicare plans—although these can be more complex. However, it’s important to get guidance from your insurance company before assuming every aspect will be paid for, as sometimes exceptions apply. 

Superficial Radiation Therapy and Medical Coverage

• Need SRT? Questions to ask your insurance provider and/or Medicare
• Can I choose where I have my superficial radiation therapy?

Need SRT? Questions to ask your insurance provider and/or Medicare

The good news is that superficial radiation therapy is included in most health plans. However, this doesn’t mean that every element will be covered—and this is especially relevant with Medicare.

If you’ve been diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer and advised that SRT is appropriate, then be sure to confirm the following to ensure you won’t have any unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

• What exactly is covered by the policy? The treatment itself is likely to be included, but supplementary items, such as dressings, medication, prescription moisturizers, sunblock, etc. may not be.
• How many treatments will you pay for? Most policies will cover the number of treatment sessions that the skin cancer specialist recommends.
• Is 100% of the treatment covered? This tends to be more relevant for Medicare coverage. If you’ve modified your coverage in any way, make sure you understand exactly what will be paid and what is excluded.

The problem with healthcare insurance is that no two policies are the same. For instance, some Medicare customers might also have secondary insurance. The latter will often pick up the check for anything not covered by Medicare, but you need to ask the question.

Private insurance policies can also be a minefield. Exactly what is paid for will be determined by your level of cover and—as with all insurance—is detailed in the small print. Basic-level cover is just that, and even the most comprehensive (and expensive) ones may have exclusions.

Can I choose where I have my superficial radiation therapy?

In short, yes, you can. Most policies (and Medicare) have a list of what they call “preferred providers”. These are medical professionals that they’ve assigned as appropriate to provide treatment. You shouldn’t need to get these individuals verified by the insurance company, as they’ve already got them on their list.

However, there are plenty of excellent SRT dermatologists who aren’t necessarily included automatically. If you want to use their services—and want it covered by your insurance/Medicare—you’ll need to get this authorized. This is usually a simple process but be aware that not every insurance company works with every doctor.

Getting the OK for your preferred skin cancer specialist and SRT before treatment commences is essential. While this will, quite naturally, be one of the last things you feel like doing after a cancer diagnosis, it really is something you must do. The last thing you want is unexpected bills causing additional stress.

The good news is that, generally, superficial radiation therapy is covered by insurance and Medicare. However, not every element may necessarily be included, so getting clarification as soon as possible will remove one area of concern, leaving you free to concentrate on your recovery.

Bayou City Dermatology Partners with Most Insurers for SRT Medical Coverage

As a leading provider of superficial radiation therapy and other skin cancer treatments, we have an excellent relationship with insurers and Medicare. The last thing anyone wants after a diagnosis is the stress of worrying about insurance costs. We do our utmost to make your treatment as smooth as possible and will do our best to help guide you through any complexities.

The most important thing is to start treatment asap. Discover more about the process at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/clinical/superficial-radiation-therapy and call today to get the ball rolling.