How much does a visit to a dermatologist cost without health insurance? Prices can vary depending on several different factors. On average, however, a dermatologist’s services will be more expensive without a health care plan.
As we will see here-below, the average data is very diverse depending on different elements that can contribute to raising or lowering the price. We could say that an approximate average cost of a first dermatological visit can be around $150 to $200.
While it is true that in some cases, dermatology professionals may offer payment plans or facilities when paying for their services, having an insured health care plan reduces the cost considerably.
Do all health insurance plans cover dermatology?
No. This is important because it is a specialty that is not often given the same attention than the one given to other specialties.
Dermatologic care in the United States is directly associated with health insurance plans. In general, costs tend to increase dramatically in the absence of this medical coverage.
The first dermatology visit without medical insurance can cost between $150 and $200. This is an average price because it does not consider the possible treatments, medicines, etc., that may be required as a result of the consultation.
For those with health insurance that provides dermatology coverage, the co-payment significantly reduces the price. The patient may have to pay between $30 and $50 depending on the type of visit (for a first medical appointment).
It is important to remember that in many cases, to access this specialty, we need to have been referred by a primary care doctor and authorized by the insurance provider.
What will determine the price of a dermatology consultation?
There is no single factor that influences the price of a dermatological visit. This even affects the cost of the co-payment in case it is covered by insurance. Therefore, it has a much greater influence on the price paid by someone who is not insured for this specialty.
The first factor to consider is the specialty of the professional. Not all dermatologists have the same specialty, treatments, or therapy models. For example, those who practice certain state-of-the-art surgery therapies will have a higher cost than a basic consultation for a minor skin problem.
Another relevant factor will be the nature of the problem we need to treat. A small mild rash can be treated in a single appointment and minor therapy. A major skin disease will generate the need for several positions and longer treatments, which will increase the price.
Of course, location is another factor to consider is the price of a dermatologist’s consultation. Generally, the greater the number of professionals, the greater the merit of competence. If there are few dermatologists in the geographical area where the patient lives, prices may be slightly higher due to the lack of competence.
It should also be borne in mind that the living conditions also influence the costs of dermatology professionals. A dermatologist who has to live and rent facilities in an expensive city will logically pass these costs on to their final invoice.
Is it worth having dermatological coverage in health insurance?
Although it is not one of the most requested specialties as insurance coverage, the truth is that it is usually one of the most problematic if it is not included in the medical plan.
It should be noted that dermatological consultations are rarely performed in a single session. On the other hand, they also tend to have more or less lengthy treatments that increase the final cost of the medical bill.
If you do not have the appropriate medical insurance to cover this cost, it is important to consider aspects such as:
- Contrast the prices of dermatologists to choose the most affordable one
- Review community health services or low-cost providers who may be able to care for an uninsured patient. Some lists can be checked at the American Academy of Dermatology of professionals with free or low-cost services.
- Look for flexible payment options. Many dermatologists accept flexible financial plans for uninsured patients and medical credit programs. It is advisable to review these proposals before making an appointment with the dermatologist.
Many health insurance policies may have associated coverage with a co-payment for dermatological consultations.
When taking out an insurance policy, you should always thoroughly review its coverages. It should include dermatology services, or, if not, ask for it to be added to the insurance proposal.