FAQs for Ironwood Dermatology
What insurance do you accept?
We accept most major carriers. This list is always changing, so please call us so that we can give you the most accurate information. The two most common ones that we do not accept are Caremore and AHCCCS.
What is a "Medigap"?
Medigap is extra health insurance that you buy from a private company to pay healthcare costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as co-payments, deductibles, and healthcare if you travel outside the U.S. Medigap policies don't cover long-term care, dental care, vision care, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and private-duty nursing. Most plans do not cover prescription drugs. You pay a monthly premium for a Medigap policy. Medigap policies are only available to people who already have Medicare Part A, which helps pay for hospital services, and Medicare Part B, which covers the cost for doctor services. People who have a Medicare Advantage plan cannot get a Medigap plan.
Why do you collect cosmetic deposits?
We collect cosmetic deposits as a way to "reserve" your appointment time. This ensures us that you will come to your appointment as scheduled, but it also ensures you that we are giving you the allotted amount of time you deserve. All cosmetic deposits that are collected prior to your appointment are applied toward products or procedures purchased, or are credited to your account if you decide now isn't the right time for treatment. However, if you fail to come to your appointment and do not cancel or reschedule according to our cancellation policy, we do collect the deposit as a "no-show" or "cancellation" fee if you cancel with less than 24 hours' notice.
What is the best sunscreen to use?
Our office carries multiple brands of high-quality skincare products, which each offer their own types of sunscreen. As no two people have the same skin, it is best to consult with one of our physicians or cosmetic specialists to find the right skincare products for you.
Can mid-level providers do the same things as a physician?
Yes! The most common myth is that NPs (nurse practitioners) and PAs (physician assistants) are unable to practice at the same level as physicians. However, when permitted to practice to the full extent of their training, NPs and PAs can perform a majority of the tasks that physicians do while providing the same quality of care.
How often should I see a dermatologist?
You should see your dermatologist at least once a year for a full skin exam if you are relatively healthy and do not have a history of skin cancer or other skin-related health issues. Depending on your health history or findings during one of your exams, your dermatologist might want to see you more frequently.
What should I look for in a mole to be concerning?
Patients can spot potential warning signs of melanoma themselves with regular skin checks, keeping a particular eye on what are known as the ABCDE's, a list dermatologists use as they monitor for skin cancer: A is for asymmetry, B is for irregular borders, C is for color, whether one color is unevenly distributed or multiple colors are present, D is for diameter, with concern for moles larger than 6mm across, and E is for evolution, meaning lesions that change over time.
For more information, check out https://www.melanoma.org/understand-melanoma/diagnosing-melanoma/detection-screening/abcdes-melanoma or speak with your dermatologist.
Is skin cancer treatment invasive?
Skin cancer is treatable. Treatment can range from a simple five-minute procedure that leaves you with a healing scab to a slightly more invasive procedure including stitches. Like most health issues, the sooner it is detected, the less invasive treatment can be.
Request your consultation with Ironwood Dermatology in Tucson, AZ. Call 520.618.1630.
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