**Medicare and Skin Cancer Screenings: What You Should Know**

As summer approaches and we all spend more time outdoors, it’s natural to think a bit more about sun exposure and skin health. For adults over 65, concerns about skin cancer can feel especially real. The good news is that early detection greatly improves outcomes — and Medicare offers coverage for many essential services that support timely diagnosis and treatment.

**What Medicare Covers for Skin Cancer Detection**

• Medicare covers medically necessary services when a doctor suspects skin cancer, including office visits, biopsies, and follow-up treatments.
• Cost-sharing typically applies, meaning you may owe a portion of the cost after you’ve met your deductible.
• Your annual wellness visit also includes time to discuss preventive health concerns — a great opportunity to bring up any changes in your skin.
• Routine full-body skin exams are not covered unless your doctor identifies a suspicious mole or lesion. This makes self-checks especially important so you can report anything unusual right away.
• Cosmetic procedures — such as removing benign moles or skin tags — are not covered.
• Original Medicare does not cover sunscreen or preventive skincare products, though some Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra benefits. It’s always worth checking your plan’s details.
• Experimental or non-FDA-approved treatments are excluded from coverage.

**Staying Proactive About Your Skin Health**

Keeping an eye on your skin and speaking up when something changes is one of the best steps you can take. If you’re unsure what your Medicare plan covers, consider reaching out to a Medicare advisor or your plan provider for clarification. Taking small steps now can help you stay healthy and confident all season long.