When does MSP cover dermatology?
MSP covers you for services from a skin specialist called a dermatologist if your doctor has referred you because the treatment is medically necessary.
Here are the conditions MSP normally covers:
- Moderate to severe acne
- Rosacea
- Skin infections
- Suspicious moles or lesions
- Areas of the face that look darker or lighter than normal
- Actinic keratosis
- Melasma (when it’s considered a medical condition)
These are the services MSP covers to manage these conditions:
- Your first appointment
- Follow-up appointments, usually for up to 5 months
- Biopsies to diagnose diseases like cancer
- Medically necessary procedures
Ask your family doctor if your skin condition qualifies you to get a dermatologist referral under MSP.
What dermatology services are not covered?
MSP does not cover dermatology services that are cosmetic or elective. These include:
- Botox for wrinkles
- Laser treatments to remove hair or discoloured spots
- Chemical peels
- Cosmetic mole removal
- Facials and spa treatments
MSP does not cover these services because they are done to improve appearance and not treat medical conditions. You would have to pay for these out of pocket.
What about out-of-province dermatology treatments?
MSP will reimburse you a limited amount for medically necessary dermatology services received outside B.C.
You would only get back the same amount MSP would reimburse if you had received the service in B.C.