Is Dermatology Covered In Your Health Insurance?
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Dermatology refers to the medical branch that deals with skin problems and diseases. It is the job of a dermatologist or dermatology specialist to diagnose any disorder or disease of the skin and accordingly, suggest the treatment. Cancer, ageing and cosmetic condition of the skin, hair, nails, fat, oral and genital membranes fall into the ambit of dermatology.
Some of the most common dermatology or skin problems in India are:
Acne
Fungal skin infections, such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, etc.
Rash
Scabies
Dermatitis
Viral skin diseases, such as chickenpox, measles, etc.
Sunburn
Auto-immune skin diseases
Dermatology treatments can be medical or surgical. But no matter the type of treatment, dermatology problems can be expensive to afford. For instance, chemotherapy for skin cancer or surgery to treat a skin disorder can dig a hole in your pockets. Cosmetic or plastic surgeries are also costly procedures. Besides, most dermatology treatments go on for a long period of time, which can deplete your savings gradually. This brings us back to the question of whether dermatology treatments are covered under health insurance plans in India. Let’s find out.
Does Health Insurance Cover Dermatology?
Yes. Health insurance plans in India cover most dermatology or skin problems. If you own a health insurance policy, you can raise a claim to cover your treatment costs for dermatology problems. Skin cancer treatment can be covered under a critical illness insurance policy as well as under a cancer insurance policy.
However, the scope of coverage can vary from one insurance company to another. For instance, most health insurance plans only cover hospitalization expenses arising out of a dermatology treatment or surgery. They may exclude day care procedures and OPD consultation costs. On the other hand, some health insurance companies may provide coverage for hospitalization costs, OPD consultations as well as day care procedures.
Therefore, you must read the terms and conditions of a health insurance policy carefully before buying it to know which type of dermatology treatments are covered.
Types of Dermatology Treatment Covered by Health Insurance
Take a look at the various dermatology treatment covered under most health insurance plans:
- Skin Cancer Treatment
- Acne
- Skin Cancer Removal
- Skin Viral Diseases
- Rashes
- Skin Fungal Infections
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Psoriasis
- Skin Allergies
- Poison Ivy Rash
- Port Wine Stains
- Keloid Scars
Types of Dermatology Treatment Not Covered by Health Insurance
The following dermatology treatments are not covered by health insurance plans in India:
- Cosmetic surgery
- Non-accidental Plastic surgery
- Botox
- Tattoo Removal
- Fillers
- Chemical Peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Facials
Conclusion
Dermatology problems may be on the rise due to pollution, poor lifestyle, ultraviolet rays, global warming, etc. It is essential to take every possible precaution to prevent the occurrence of various skin problems. But on the safer side, you must buy a health insurance policy as they cover medical dermatology. But if you expect to get coverage for cosmetic or aesthetic dermatology, your insurance companies will not help you at all.
Also read- Who Should Acquire A Health Insurance Policy For Rs. 1 Crore
