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MIPS reporting and fee schedule

These MIPS resources include a step-by-step MIPS guide, access to the Academy's many quality measure pages, the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, and MIPS reporting categories.

2025 Proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Access information on the proposed rule for the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

Medicare Fee Schedule

Learn about the Medicare Fee Schedule, with access to detailed information about this year's rates as set by CMS. Also access information about the yearly timeline for release of rules and other valuable Medicare resources.

2024 Proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Access information on the proposed rule for the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

2026 Proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Access information on the proposed rule for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule

Access information on the final rule for the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

2026 Final Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Access information on the final rule for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule

Access information on the final rule for the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

2027 Proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Access information on the proposed rule for the 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, with a focus on issues that are most important to dermatologists.

Advocacy Update Feb. 4 2025

The AADA is pleased that physician champions in the U.S. House introduced a bipartisan bill to address the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule cut.

Negotiating fee schedules

When negotiating with private payers, knowing your worth can pay off. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, November 1, 2020 If you think medical school and residency were difficult, wait until you try to negotiate a higher fee schedule with a payer. ... "My experience has been that,

Advocacy Update Dec 9, 2025

The AADA endorsed a House bill that would include an annual inflationary update to the Medicare physician fee schedule, the Academy’s top federal advocacy priority.

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Poster exhibits discount code

View the resident and graduate member submission fee waiver code

Advocacy Update Sept. 1, 2026

The Academy continues to meet with CMS to oppose modifier 25 policies proposed in the 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

Advocacy Update Nov 11, 2025

The AADA joined over 30 other medical specialty groups demanding relief from the CMS efficiency adjustment in the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule.

Dermatologists, patients unite to battle 2024 Medicare physician payment cuts

In late 2023, CMS released the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule with significant changes to fee-for-service payments and the Quality Payment Program. As a result of the AADA’s advocacy efforts, the final rule included several significant wins, including maintaining the 2024 MIPS performance threshold at 75 points, and allowing physicians

Place of Service Impacts Payment for Soft Tissue Excision

According to the Medicare Physician Fee schedule (MPFS), some procedures have separate rates for physician services when provided in facility and nonfacility settings. CMS furnishes both rates in the MPFSDB update.

Advocacy Update Nov 4, 2025

Dermatologists will see a slight payment increase for the first time in five years, according to the final 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) published on Oct. 31.

American Academy of Dermatology Association Applauds Introduction of The Patients First Act Aimed at Medicare Physician Reform

Statement from Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD, President, American Academy of Dermatology Association ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 15, 2026) — The American Academy of Dermatology Association applauds Academy member Representative John Joyce, MD, FAAD (R-PA), for introducing bipartisan, comprehensive Medicare physician payment reform legislation, the Patients First Act. The Academy

Advocacy Update Jul 1, 2025

The Senate advanced their version of reconciliation tax and health legislation, which included a temporary one-year, 2.5% bump to the physician fee schedule for 2026.

CMS proposes to decrease physician payment in 2027

CMS released the proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule where dermatologists will see a significant payment decrease, underscoring the continued instability of the Medicare physician payment system. The AADA remains steadfast in securing meaningful Medicare physician payment reform.

Advocacy Update Aug 12, 2025

The AADA asked congressional leadership to support the SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act by including it in the reauthorization of the Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Program.

CMS proposes to decrease physician payment in 2027

CMS released the proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule where dermatologists will see a significant payment decrease, underscoring the continued instability of the Medicare physician payment system. The AADA remains steadfast in securing meaningful Medicare physician payment reform.

Dialogues in Dermatology is now a free member benefit

Academy members no longer need to pay a subscription fee to access the popular Dialogues in Dermatology podcast. An active AAD membership unlocks access to each new episode — a simple way to stay current on the latest breakthroughs and trends in dermatology.

Advocacy Update Jul 15, 2025

In case you missed it, Congress passed budget reconciliation legislation that included a one-year 2.5% increase for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to account for sustained cuts as Congress continues to work toward long-term payment reform.

Congress passes one-year increase to Medicare physician payment in budget bill

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate’s version of the budget reconciliation legislation, which includes a one-year 2.5% increase for the proposed 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to account for sustained cuts as Congress continues to work toward long-term payment reform.

Cash-only practice

A cash-only practice is a patient self-pay model where dermatologic services are provided without billing insurance. Patients pay directly at the time of service, streamlining practice operations and enhancing autonomy for the physician. Similarly, a concierge practice is one where the patient pays an annual membership fee.

American Academy of Dermatology Association Statement on Final 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

Congress must act now to protect patients’ health care access in the face of consecutive cuts ... American Academy of Dermatology President Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD WASHINGTON, DC (Nov. 1, 2024) — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) again finalized cuts to the physician fee schedule for 2025

Congress passes one-year increase to Medicare physician payment

AADA continues fight for payment reform. Congress has passed a one-year 2.5% increase for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to account for sustained cuts as Congress continues to work toward long-term payment reform. The temporary pay increase is a first step in stemming the tide of cuts physicians have

How do I reinstate my membership as a Fellow or Associate member?

Asked and Answered ... October 1, 2025 To start the reinstatement process, visit ... www.aad.org/reinstate-membership . ... Please allow 7-10 business days for processing. You will be notified when the request is approved and how to process payment for the current year’s membership dues, including a $100 reinstatement fee. For

2024 MIPS update

What dermatologists need to know about this year’s MIPS reporting. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, May 1, 2024 "If you provide Medicare services, MIPS is a must when it comes to your reimbursement," said Florida dermatologist Shawna Flanagan, MD, FAAD, member of the Academy’s Practice Management

August 21, 2024

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 21, 2024 ... Botulinum toxin in males with androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : AESOP — The ants and the grasshopper FDA approves nemolizumab for prurigo nodularis 2025 Medicare

July 24, 2024

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 24, 2024 ... Is there an association between benzoyl peroxide use and increased blood benzene levels? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pancreatic panniculitis — Getting spooked by ghost cells AADA

August 3, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 3, 2022 ... Dutasteride microinjections with oral minoxidil vs. oral minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Infantile digital fibromatosis – Inclusions and exclusions CMS outlines payment changes

Acquaint Yourself with the MPFSDB Indicators

The MPFSDB provides more than just a list of carrier-specific maximum fees per procedural code. The MPFSDB is the national database used by MACs to ensure that claims processing is consistent nationally. Medicare uses this fee schedule when paying for the following services: ... Professional services of physicians and other

August 2, 2023

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 2, 2023 ... Isotretinoin for seborrheic dermatitis: A review DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Cellular neurothekeoma: A tribute to Barnhill and Mihm and a remembrance of Martin C. Mihm Jr.,

August 26, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 26, 2020 ... Navigating immunosuppression during a pandemic: A guide for the dermatologist DW Insights and Inquiries : Topical tacrolimus topics Derm Coding Consult : Proposed Medicare fee schedule includes

July 1, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 1, 2020 ... Derm Coding Consult : E/M coding — What has changed? DW Insights and Inquiries : Spironolactone — An increasingly recognized hero in acne therapy Is it ethical

Medicare physician payment update

Ask the Expert ... By Apoorva Stull, Senior Manager, Advocacy Communications, October 1, 2025 DermWorld ... talks with Government Affairs and Health Policy Council Chair Melissa Piliang, MD, FAAD, about the one-year Medicare physician payment increase, the potential impact of the proposed 2026 Medicare physician fee schedule, and what the

August 12, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 12, 2020 ... Treating trichotillomania: Beyond antidepressants DW Insights and Inquiries : Mogamulizumab for CTCL — Targeted therapy and immunotherapy crossing paths 2021 Medicare fee schedule rewards cognitive work, but

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 15, 2023 ... Platelet-rich plasma vs. minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia treatment DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The woolly culprit — Lanolin revealed as an uncommon cause of dermatitis on normal

Not just another cog in the wheel

Dermatologists and experts in concierge and cash-only practice models discuss how it can be a game-changer for the right physician. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, August 1, 2023 Imagine a world without rushed appointments, insurance denials, and ever-diminishing reimbursement. While this may seem like Tolkien fantasy,

November 19, 2025

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 19, 2025 ... Benefits and harms of 42 chronic urticaria interventions DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The aryl hydrocarbon receptor — Tapinarof is taking off Switching biologics in patients with

April 26, 2023

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 26, 2023 ... Paroxetine for refractory erythema of rosacea? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Demodectic eruptions — More than you mite have imagined Nonthermal atmospheric plasma for molluscum and verruca

Who pays the bills?

Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, March 1, 2019 While the future of American health insurance remains a question mark, data from the 2017 AAD Practice Profile Survey has helped shed light on where reimbursement trends might be headed. Although the percentage of patients with private

How can I claim CME credits?

Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2026 Academy members can use the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Transcript Program to document their continuing medical education (CME) and continuing certification program (CCP) requirements to send to a licensing body. This service is a member benefit at no additional fee.* ... With the

How do I claim CME credit from the AAD Annual Meeting?

Asked and Answered ... April 1, 2025 Use the American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) online Continuing Professional Development Transcript (CPD) Program to document your CME and CCP activities to send to a licensing body. This service is a member benefit at no additional fee.* ... With the CPD Transcript Program

Congress must act to protect patients’ health care access

Statement from Terrence A. Cronin Jr., MD, FAAD, President of the American Academy of Dermatology Association WASHINGTON (Nov. 2, 2023) — CMS finalized cuts to the physician fee schedule for 2024, which will impact the ability of medical practices to cover expenses like equipment, rent, and nursing and office staff

The power of state advocacy

From the President ... Dr. Hruza served as Academy president from March 2019 to March 2020. ... By George Hruza, MD, MBA, November 1, 2019 When you think of advocacy, what do you think of? Capitol Hill and Congress? CMS and the FDA? If so, you’re not wrong. Many facets

Advocacy Update July 21, 2026

New legislation introduced would modernize the Medicare physician payment system.

Pharmacy benefits managers

Middlemen who rose to the top ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, August 1, 2022 Pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) may be in the middle of the distribution drug chain, but they are on top when it comes to profits. ... PBMs had a humble beginning in the 1960s;

Session handouts and meetings archive

View previous AAD meeting sessions, handouts, poster exhibits, and floor plans.

Advocacy priorities for drug pricing

Dermatologists are committed to providing the most effective and cost-efficient care and pharmaceutical therapies to their patients. The Academy supports a multifaceted approach to fixing the drug cost crisis by promoting transparency, removing barriers to generic alternatives, limiting unannounced price hikes, and requiring more oversight of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

Advocacy Update Feb. 18 2025

The AADA joined over 130 national and state physician organizations led by the AMA demanding Congress act to reform Medicare physician payment.

Advocacy Update July 28, 2026

President’s message on Academy’s efforts on fighting proposed Dermatology cuts.

CME & session evaluation archive

Claim CME credit and submit session evaluations for attending previous Academy meetings.

Advocacy Update Mar. 18, 2025

The AADA is outraged that Congress once again passed a government funding bill that did not include relief to stop this year’s 2.8% Medicare physician payment cut.

AADA hosts largest Capitol Hill skin cancer check in a decade

On May 15, the AADA hosted its 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health Fair with the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus. This event was our largest to date, hosting 198 Hill staffers and 11 members of Congress, performing 127 skin checks, and providing 75 Reveal camera image results.

Academy physician leaders meet with federal legislators

On June 4, AADA physician leaders met with legislators in Washington, D.C., as part of the House Call on the Mall fundraiser hosted by the National Republican Congressional Committee and Rep. John Joyce, MD, FAAD (R-PA). During the event, AADA leaders reiterated the importance of Medicare physician payment reform.

2026 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda

Learn more about the policy-focused sessions during the 2026 AADA Legislative Conference.

2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda

Learn more about the policy-focused sessions during the 2025 AADA Legislative Conference.

AADA hosts 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health Fair

Moving the needle ... By Apoorva Stull, Senior Manager, Advocacy Communications, May 1, 2024 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. On May 15, the AADA hosted its 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health

Advocacy Update Sept. 29, 2026

SkinPAC surpasses its previous fundraising record, raising more than one million dollars.

Advocacy Update May 5, 2026

In response to advocacy by the AADA and other specialty societies, UnitedHealth Care will delay any adverse payment decisions related to Medicare Advantage referral requirements starting on May 1.

Advocacy Update June 30, 2026

AADA President Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD, met with federal legislators on Medicare physician payment reform in Washington, DC.

Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin

Learn more about Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin at aad.org

Contract reimbursement review

When deciding whether to sign a contract with a payer, reimbursement is one of the most important considerations. Adequate reimbursement is critical to the viability of your practice. Therefore, be sure to review contract language on reimbursement carefully. ... Aspects of reimbursement are often negotiable, though the extent to which

A look at the Academy’s fight for fair payment

Moving the needle ... By Apoorva Stull, Senior Manager, Advocacy Communications, October 1, 2024 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. The Academy’s sole 2024 federal congressional advocacy priority is Medicare physician payment reform, which includes establishing

Understanding Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction Rule

Have you ever wondered how Medicare determines when to apply the multiple procedure payment reduction rule (MPPR) and how it affects claim-reimbursement amounts? ... The American Medical Association’s (AMA’s) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code manual describes individual services and procedures. The AMA/Specialty Society Relative Value Scale (RVS) Update Committee (RUC)

Private payer coding issues

Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, and Louis Terranova, MHA, Assistant Director, Practice Advocacy, April 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . In 2021, dermatologists and non-physician clinicians

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Policies and cancellations

Find registration and cancellation policies for the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting.

Clear as mud

Pulling back the curtain on PBMs for transparent drug pricing. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, April 1, 2024 When hearing "pay no attention to the man behind the curtain," one might be reminded of a wizard in the Land of Oz. However, those in health care may

AADA advocacy delivers Senate Medicare payment reform bill

In a major advance in AADA’s fight for Medicare payment reform, the Senate introduced a bill on Aug. 1 aimed at addressing budget neutrality, a major cause of the ongoing physician payment cuts. This is a direct result of the AADA’s relentless advocacy on this issue, which is our sole

Multiple Surgery Reduction Rule: Sometimes less is more

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, August 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Multiple Surgery Reduction Rule (MSRR)

Advocacy Update

The Advocacy Update is a weekly advocacy newsletter that provides brief political and regulatory news and AADA’s advocacy activity updates. Delivered weekly to members' email, Advocacy Update provides news that affects dermatology including federal and state policy, legislation and political action, and economic and regulatory affairs. In addition, AAD members

Academic Dermatology Leadership Program (mentee)

Learn about the Academy's Dermatology Leadership Program and the opportunity to pair mentors with mentees. The mentor will assist, advise, and guide the mentee throughout the year. The mentee will attend the Annual Meeting and the Leadership Forum.

Clinical practice dermatology leadership program

Designed for emerging leaders in private and organizational health care settings, the Clinical Practice Dermatology Leadership Program (CPDLP) is a comprehensive program that requires a full-year commitment.

Coming down the payment pike

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... While Medicare reimbursement changes were minimal in 2020, what's in store for dermatology down the road? ... While Medicare reimbursement changes were minimal in 2020, what's in store for dermatology down the road? ... By Melanie Padgett Powers,

Streamlining the claim denial process in your practice

Claim denials are a reality for every dermatology practice. It is wise to be proactive and understand what you need to do when you receive a claim denial. Streamlining your claim denial process requires understanding the meaning behind each denial on the explanation of benefits (EOB) and the appropriate action

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Registration and session fees

Find information on registration and session fees for the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting in San Francisco, CA.

Advocacy Update 2025 archive

Explore Advocacy Update articles by publication date in this archive of issues published in 2025.

Advanced Leadership Forum

Learn more about the Advanced Leadership Forum, which was designed specifically for mid-career level dermatologists. The Advanced Leadership Forum is a highly interactive and enriching weekend that provides an opportunity to advance leadership and communication skills while networking with colleagues and Academy leaders.

Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem

Learn more about Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem at aad.org

We are battling detrimental Medicare payment cuts

As a top advocacy priority, your Academy has been fighting all year against Medicare payment cuts of 8.5% or more that are scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2023. These scheduled cuts are on top of payment reductions that took effect this year, and, without a long-term solution, Medicare cuts

Leadership Forum

Learn about the Leadership Forum, which is designed specifically for dermatologists. It is a highly interactive and enriching weekend that provides an opportunity to advance your leadership and communication skills while networking with colleagues and Academy leaders.

Interstate Medical Licensure Compact

Legally Speaking ... Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, presents legal dilemmas in dermatology every other month. He is a dermatologist in practice in Florida and a partner in the law firm Lober, Brown, and Lober. ... By Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, October 1, 2018 Carl: Bryan, I recently heard

Advocacy Update Jul 29, 2025

AADA Vice President-elect Larry Green, MD, FAAD, represented dermatologists on behalf of SkinPAC at an event in Washington, D.C., with his member of Congress, Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) to urge support for Medicare physician payment reform.

Fighting to mitigate Medicare cuts

Advocating to avert the cuts is the Academy’s number one legislative priority this year.

Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation: Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome

Read the June 17, 2020 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on capillary malformation.

2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Legislative asks

Explore the legislative policy issues you’ll discuss with your members of Congress during the 2025 AADA Legislative Conference.

The ins and outs of billing company contracts

Legally Speaking ... Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., November 1, 2020 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author is Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., who is a health

Take action: Call on Congress to reverse Medicare cuts

Contact your legislators to oppose cuts to Medicare physician payments. Select your category to send a message to Congress using the AADA’s Action Center.

Practice finance: Learn financial essentials for career success

The AAD offers resources to help you understand the essentials of practice finance. These include balance sheets and the impact of relative value units. We also help you understand how to maximize your own impact on revenue, to demonstrate your value to the practice.

Fighting for fair Medicare reimbursement

Ask the Expert ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, October 1, 2022 DermWorld ... spoke to Academy President Mark Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, about the American Academy of Dermatology Association’s (AADA) efforts to ensure physicians are positioned to succeed under Medicare reimbursement rules. DermWorld: Fair reimbursement under the Medicare program has

Practice Management Center

Access practical, dermatologist-specific resources that help simplify administrative burdens and ease stress. These include tools and information on coding, MIPS, prior authorization, compliance, health IT, teledermatology, managing a practice, vendors, and more.

Mailing lists

The Academy's membership list is more current and accurate than any other dermatology list available in the market.

Independent practice association (IPA)

An independent practice association (IPA) allows dermatologists to retain their independent practice status while joining a separate entity that negotiates payer contracts on behalf of its members. This model offers a way to preserve autonomy while gaining access to better reimbursement rates, shared administrative services, and collective negotiating power.

Academy opposes cuts to dermatology payments

The proposed 2027 rule hits dermatology harder than almost any other specialty, resulting in an estimated single-year payment reduction of 9% to dermatologists, with a total reduction of 11% when changes to the conversion factor are included.

Recognizing Trichophyton indotineae

In the last decade, a recently emerged dermatophyte species, Trichophyton indotineae, has been causing major outbreaks of severe, difficult-to-treat, and frequently relapsing infections in South Asia among immunocompetent patients.

Advocacy Update Aug. 11, 2026

Take action to save dermatology from devastating cuts.

Ca$h only

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Examining the viability and ethical implications of opting out of insurance ... Examining the viability and ethical implications of opting out of insurance ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist Dealing with insurance would likely be at the bottom

Go your own way

Dermatologists share experiences and considerations practicing in a variety of practice models. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, September 1, 2025 Whether you’re embarking on your career path, or you’re simply ready for a reset, there are a multitude of practice models to investigate. Each path offers

Key messages to communicate about Indoor tanning

By communicating these key messages on indoor tanning, you can help position the specialty while increasing your credibility and raising the profile of your practice.

Pathways: Pre-med students

Do you enjoy STEM subjects but also want a career that involves connecting with people? You may want to consider medicine and, specifically, dermatology. And the AAD’s Pathways: Inclusivity in Dermatology program can help start you way to this exciting career. This program is designed for pre-med and postbaccalaureate students.

Primer on payer contract issues

Answers in Practice ... By Lou Terranova, Associate Director, Practice and Payment Policy, and Teresa Salaway, Senior Manager, Practice and Payment Policy, October 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, AADA regulatory and payment policy staff highlight critical elements of payer contracts for

Keeping current with Medicare enrollment

Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq., December 1, 2024 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice

Webinar & additional resources

View a free webinar on best practices for streamlining claims with private payers. You can also access other resources from the Academy designed to help with private payers, along with materials available from the American Medical Association.

Activate your community to Save Skin Cancer Care

We are putting the full force of the AADA behind mobilizing the larger dermatology community around the Save Skin Cancer Care campaign. We need your help.

November 7

Learn more about November 7 at aad.org

Advocacy Update 2025 archive

Explore Advocacy Update articles by publication date in this archive of issues published in 2025.

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Important dates

Find important registration dates for the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting.

July 16, 2025

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 16, 2025 ... Female pattern hair loss: Is systemic minoxidil effective over the long term? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pathway to clarity — The new and improved Melanocytic Pathology

Incident to, revisited

Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, October 1, 2018 Test your knowledge: Incident to, revisited ... Take the quiz to see if you're up to

Medicare physician payment reform

Ask the Expert ... By Apoorva Stull, Senior Manager, Advocacy Communications, August 1, 2024 DermWorld ... interviews Melissa Piliang, MD, FAAD, chair of the Council on Government Affairs and Health Policy, about the AADA’s top advocacy priority for 2024: Medicare physician payment reform. DermWorld : Why did the AADA decide

JAAD Reviews (JDRV)

JAAD Reviews seeks high quality, evidence-based reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses papers to support JAAD’s mission of “helping dermatologists improve patient outcomes.” All submissions are peer reviewed and of interest to an audience of dermatologists, residents, fellows, and researchers in all dermatology subspecialties, as well as clinicians in related fields.

AAD Event Advertising: Annual Meeting

For exhibitors looking to promote their products and services, build booth traffic, and facilitate face-to-face discussions, the Academy offers a wide selection of high-impact advertising opportunities during the Academy's Annual Meeting.

MIPS reporting tools and resources

Find a collection of resources to help you report MIPS. The Academy offers a wealth of MIPS resources, including MIPS options for different types of practices, and a selection of MIPS tools designed for dermatologists.

2024 MIPS and telehealth highlights

The 2024 MIPS program remains mostly the same from 2023. See our highlights on what dermatologists need to know about participating in MIPS.

Private payer appeal letter tool

Use the Academy's private payer appeal letter tool to streamline the process and optimize your success. The letter templates may be modified to specifically address your circumstances and those of your patients. You can also learn more about common causes of denials for dermatologists.

November

Issue ... November January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... It’s always the gluten What's hot ... This month's news from across the specialty Clinical Applications ... How is structural racism affecting atopic dermatitis

Changes to the Placement of Modifiers Starting on July 1st

On July 1, 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services National Correct Coding Initiative (CMS/NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) Edits, Version 25.2 will go into effect. The MLN Matters Number: MM11227 (CR 11227) released on March 29 announced the release of the 2019 third quarter updates to the NCCI/PTP edits. ...

2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Legislative asks

Explore the legislative policy issues you’ll discuss with your members of Congress during the 2025 AADA Legislative Conference.

Evaluation and Management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Part 1

This article, the first in a series, explains how 2021 E/M coding changes came to be, how to AADA advocated to prevent changes that would have had a worse impact on dermatology, and how dermatologists can begin preparing for the changes.

AAD is fighting to mitigate Medicare cuts

Advocating to avert the cuts is the Academy’s number one legislative priority this year. Medicare physician payment is facing a crisis. Over the last 20 years, payment updates have not kept pace with rising costs, and when accounting for inflation, physicians have seen a greater than 20% decrease in payments

November 14

Learn more about November 14 at aad.org

October 27, 2021

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 27, 2021 ... COVID-19 and nails: A review of clinical findings DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Taking woolly hair to heart Derm Coding Consult : CMS revises Advance Beneficiary Notice

Understanding the National Practitioner Data Bank

Legally Speaking ... Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, presents legal dilemmas in dermatology every other month. He is a dermatologist in practice in Florida and a partner in the law firm Lober, Brown, and Lober. ... By Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, February 1, 2018 Anita: I recently spoke with

Quality Resources Provided by the AAD

See a summary of quality resources provided by the Academy, grouped by type.

Advocacy Update Sept 16, 2025

The annual AADA Legislative Conference concluded Sept. 9, with advocates participating in over 200 meetings with congressional offices to urge Medicare physician practice payment reform.

I am going to be retiring at the end of the year. Does the Academy offer a discounted membership rate?

Asked and Answered ... November 1, 2020 If you are currently retired, plan to retire later this year or the first half of next year, you may be eligible for Life Membership. Per the AAD Bylaws, the Life Membership category is open to all Academy members who meet the following

AAD education goes digital

Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, November 1, 2020 In June, the AAD launched its first-ever virtual meeting experience — ... AAD VMX — to reflect the evolving needs of a post-COVID world. As many organizations have pivoted to digital learning models, a recent study from

Enroll in AAD's DataDerm

The AAD is now accepting early-bird DataDerm enrollment applications for 2025. Reserve your spot now by answering just a few brief questions. The DataDerm team will confirm your enrollment and outline the next steps for completing full registration, scheduled for spring 2025.

Reinstate membership

Fill out our convenient online form to start the reinstatement process.

Biotin supplementation for hair and nail health: Does it pass the test?

Read the November 17, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on biotin supplementation for hair and nail health.

After 23 years, a syndrome converted me into an eflornithine believer

Polyamines are integrally involved with the hair cycle. The Bachmann-Bupp syndrome has shed new light on the role of ornithine decarboxylase, and how it’s inhibition by eflornithine can be used as an advantage to either slow or stimulate hair growth.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about coding.

To concierge or not concierge, that is the question

After very long days of difficult patients (diagnostically, therapeutically, and otherwise), insurance denials, prior authorizations, business decisions, MACRA, et cetera, I think of the milkman Tevye from “Fiddler on the Roof”, finally sitting down, and singing “If I Were a Rich Man”. I’ll even spring for a few Powerball lottery

December 9, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 9, 2020 ... What are the effects of OTC moisturizers on skin barrier function? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Much ado about nothing in dermatopathology CMS fails to prevent Medicare

Where can I find information about MIPS reporting?

Asked and Answered ... January 1, 2026 The Academy’s Practice Management Center has ... updates, tools, and resources for dermatologists to navigate the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) . This includes a snapshot document that outlines reporting options for practices of varying sizes and needs, as well as an easy-to-follow,

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Childcare

Learn how to register for childcare during the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting in San Francisco, CA.

Intellectual property issues for dermatology practices

Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Ben Tesdahl, JD, LL.M, Fernando Montoya, JD, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, January 1, 2023 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s

Yom Kippur and the physician payment Sunshine Act

Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, is upon us. It is Judaism’s most sacred holiday. It is a day of fasting and prayer to atone for sins of the past year. According to traditional teachings, a person’s fate is written in the Book of Life on Rosh Hashanah (the

October 23, 2019

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 23, 2019 ... Treating molluscum contagiosum: Ingenol mebutate vs. imiquimod DW Insights and Inquiries: Coming clean on bleach baths for atopic dermatitis Ancestry launches consumer genetic health testing CMS offers

September 7, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / S ept. 7, 2022 ... Are concentrations higher than 5% minoxidil of benefit for androgenic alopecia patients? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : BASCULE syndrome: Is something brewing with Bier spots? Emollient

Advocacy Update Mar. 25, 2025

AADA backs dermatologists on CLIA lab director requirements.

RVUs explained for dermatologists

Relative Value Units (RVUs) are a core part of how dermatologists’ work is measured and compensated. RVUs assign standardized value to every service, procedure, and patient encounter. Understanding RVUs is essential for making informed decisions about contracts, productivity, and career planning.

Advocacy Update Jan. 7 2025

Congress failed to stop 2025 Medicare payment cuts further fueling AADA members to contact their federal legislators.

Fighting Medicare payment cuts in 2023 and beyond

We want to help maintain stability for dermatology practices as the country faces significant economic challenges, rising costs, and continued efforts to rebuild from the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE). We are urging Congress to take action to stop pending Medicare payment cuts that could negatively impact patients’ access to

Telehealth policy changes take effect; shutdown impacts Medicare claims processing

CMS announced that significant changes to Medicare telehealth services that took effect on Oct. 1, 2025, may impact the processing of Medicare telehealth claims.

An appetite for healthy skin

Take the short quiz below to evaluate your knowledge of diet's impact on the skin. ... November 1, 2020 Diet and the skin ... Can you separate fact from fiction? Put your knowledge to the test. ... Exclusion diets can clear patients' atopic dermatitis. ... True or false? ... Dietary

Help for Minor Claim Denials via CMS TRU

Dermatology practices can now use the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) telephone reopening unit (TRU) to change a claim-denial determi-nation or decision that resulted in either an overpayment or an underpayment, even though the determination or decision was made correctly based on the claim-docu-mentation evidence available on record.

2027 Annual Meeting: Abstract presentations

Find information about submitting and presenting abstracts at the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting.

Navigating the shifting reimbursement landscape

DermWorld highlights the current state of private payer relations and offers tips on how to manage changes. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, April 1, 2026 Commercial carriers across the country are finding new ways to delay, deny, and diminish reimbursement payments. Coupled with rising operating costs, these

Preparing for MIPS 2023 and beyond

Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2023 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on MIPS reporting. It’s year five of the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS), so you are probably well aware that

I have several practice management questions about coding, MIPS, and DataDerm. How can I get help?

Asked and Answered ... August 1, 2020 The Academy offers up-to-date, practical guidance from staff experts in the following areas: ... Coding ... Visit the ... Coding Resource Center at www.aad.org/member/practice/coding for practical tips, tools, quizzes, and videos about common dermatologic coding issues. Members can access guidance on: ... Biopsies

Academy continues to fight for Medicare physician payment reform

The Academy made Medicare physician payment reform its sole legislative advocacy focus and will continue to do so in 2026. Our goal is to stop annual payment cuts and for Congress to pass legislation that guarantees an annual update based on inflation.

Dermatologists continue fight for Medicare physician payment reform

Throughout 2024, the AADA lobbied Congress to avert all Medicare payment cuts, making this our sole federal legislative advocacy priority.

Where can I find updated information on MIPS reporting requirements for 2025?

Asked and Answered ... September 1, 2025 Members can find a summary of changes to the ... MIPS program for the 2025 reporting year . ... To access a step-by-step guide on reporting for MIPS in 2025, visit the ... Academy’s Practice Management Center . This three-step guide can help

Fellow membership | AAD

Information about Fellow membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, application requirements, dues and fees, and how to apply.

Affiliate membership | AAD

Information about Affiliate membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, application requirements, dues and fees, and how to apply.

AADA Health System Reform Principles

The American Academy of Dermatology Association established these principles to guide physician leadership in taking policy positions and advocating for health system reform. At the root of these guiding principles is the need to preserve the patient-physician relationship.

October 28, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 28, 2020 ... Drug may offer prolonged improvement in chronic spontaneous urticaria DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Looking into the whites of the mouth Why will dermatology experience a 2%

August 8

Learn more about August 8 at aad.org

January 15, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / January 15, 2020 ... Which cosmeceuticals have proven clinical efficacy? DW Insights and Inquiries: Thoughts on hyaluronidase and The House of God Cancer death rate falls by largest one-year drop on

Claim CME and view transcript

Use the American Academy of Dermatology's (AAD) online Continuing Professional Development Transcript (CPD) Program to document your CME and MOC activities to send to a licensing body.

Associate membership | AAD

Information about Associate membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, application requirements, dues and fees, and how to apply.

Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus: Interfering with interferon

Read the Aug. 17, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on cutaneous lupus erythematosus and interferon.

E/M codes: Change is here

What dermatologists need to know about the restructured evaluation and management codes to ensure correct reimbursement ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, January 1, 2021 Evaluation and management (E/M) visit codes are by far the most heavily used codes across all specialties. They accounted for about 15%

Fake news, predatory journals, case reports, biostatistics, and other journalistic musings

We live in an era of information excess delivered by print, digital devices, webcasts, podcasts, and tweets. Time for reflection is minimal. One of the major precipitants of physician burnout is the endless electronically documenting data, which has replaced speaking to and examining patients, and most importantly thinking about their

March 18, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 18, 2020 ... CMS offers physicians flexibility during COVID-19 emergency DW Insights and Inquiries : The profound dermatological manifestations of COVID-19 Feedback requested: AAD/NPF draft guidelines for the management and

Summary of MIPS 2021 changes

Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, manager, practice management, February 1, 2021 Each month DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Faiza Wasif, MPH, the Academy’s Practice Management manager, offers a summary of MIPS changes in 2021. CMS released the final Quality Payment Program (QPP)

This month's news from across the specialty

What's hot ... November 1, 2020 In this monthly column, members of the  ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty.   ... Mallory Abate, MD A novel topical antiandrogen, clascoterone cream, has been shown to be effective for the treatment of acne, according to a

2025 MIPS and telehealth highlights

The 2025 MIPS program features some changes, including the introduction of a MIPS value pathway for dermatology. See our highlights on what dermatologists need to know about participating in MIPS.

The importance of grassroots engagement and advocacy

From the President ... Dr. Alam is the Academy’s current president. ... By Murad Alam, MD, FAAD, September 1, 2026 Dear Fellow AAD Member, ... Advocacy is very important for us to ensure access to quality care for our patients. It is also critical to preserve the ongoing viability of

Meeting with your member of Congress: A guide for dermatologists

You can meet with your elected officials or their staff in their local district office or the office where you practice. This guide provides essential tips to ensure a smooth, productive visit that can build an impactful relationship.

International Associate membership | AAD

Information about International Associate membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, documentation, dues and fees, and how to apply.

The nexus of VEXAS syndrome

Read the December 1, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on VEXAS syndrome.

Coding dermatology encounters in 2026: Practical guidance and tips for success

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, May 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . As healthcare delivery continues to evolve, 2026

When Washington, D.C., comes to you

From the President ... Dr. Thiers served as Academy president from March 2020 to March 2021. ... By Bruce Thiers, MD, November 1, 2020 If we’ve learned anything this year, it’s the importance of being flexible. For example, before COVID-19, less than 10% of our members were using telemedicine; now,

DOS Coding and Billing for Surgical and Anatomical Pathology Services

Learn about DOS coding and billing for surgical and anatomical pathology services.

Advocacy Update May 19, 2026

The Delaware Academy of Dermatology urged members of the Delaware Senate Legislative Sunset Committee to oppose SB 295, which would significantly expand the scope of practice of aestheticians into the practice of medicine.

Adjunct membership | AAD

Information about Adjunct membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, application requirements, dues and fees, and how to apply.

International Fellow membership | AAD

Information about International Fellow membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Learn about eligibility, the timeline, documentation, dues and fees, and how to apply.

Advocacy Update Oct. 13, 2026

CMS proposed Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments rule would formally recognize board-certified dermatologists as qualified laboratory directors.

Advocacy Update Nov 25, 2025

A recent report by the Office of the Inspector General found that dermatologists are appropriately using Modifier 25 the vast majority of the time. The report was compiled in response to scrutiny by CMS of how dermatologists use the modifier. In 9 out of 10 instances sampled, dermatologists are following

About DataDerm

Since its launch in 2016, DataDerm has become dermatology’s largest clinical data registry, capturing data on over 16 million unique patients and 69 million encounters. It supports the advancement of skin disease diagnosis and treatment, informs clinical practice, streamlines MIPS reporting, and drives clinically relevant research using real-world data.

2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Affiliate groups

The AAD welcomes affiliated organizations to meet and host various functions during designated dates and times in conjunction with the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting. Learn how to submit a request to host an affiliate function.

2025 CPT coding updates

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, December 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has

Reflecting on 2018 with gratitude

From the President ... Dr. Olbricht served as Academy president from March 2018 to March 2019. ... By Suzanne Olbricht, MD, December 3, 2018 Legendary crooner Andy Williams may have said it best in his song, "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Holidays aside, for me this time

Dermatologist on the run

In Practice ... Douglas Naversen, MD, is a dermatologist in private practice in Medford, Oregon. ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, August 1, 2018 It takes major motivation to complete a single marathon. Douglas Naversen, MD, has run 25. ... "My personal record is two hours, fifty-five minutes, and thirty-two

2025 AADA Legislative Conference: FAQs

Review Legislative Conference FAQs to get answers to your questions. Learn about what the conference is, when and where it occurs, how you can register, and more.

First 100 days: Contain COVID-19

Dermatologists will likely have to wait before the Biden administration turns its attention to health care issues impacting the specialty. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, March 1, 2021 The novel coronavirus will dominate the Biden administration’s health care agenda in 2021. Depending on how quickly the COVID-19

Information freeway

Accessibility and technology drive changes to clinical publication model. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, June 1, 2024 These days, discovery in medicine is a freeway of innovation, an autobahn in the science world where the pace is only limited by the speed of minds — and perhaps

Dermatology at a 'disadvantage'

Enrollment in Medicare Advantage continues to grow. What does it mean for you and your patients? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, December 1, 2024 Over 67 million people in the United States receive health care coverage through Medicare. ... However, a growing number have begun to defect

It’s always the gluten

From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, November 1, 2020 Gluten is to dermatitis as brown recluse spider bites are to ulcers. Often blamed, but rarely the cause. I run a contact dermatitis clinic, and without fail, at least

It’s a leap year!

From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, February 1, 2020 Forget what you were taught in school; a year really isn’t 365 days long. It’s closer to 365.24 days. This is, of course, why we add an extra day

Coming together as a specialty

From the President ... Dr. Olbricht served as Academy president from March 2018 to March 2019. ... By Suzanne Olbricht, MD, May 1, 2018 Since taking the reins as your Academy President, I have spoken with many members about their day-to-day experiences in practice, the challenges they face, and their

Advocacy Update Dec 16, 2025

The AADA applauded the FDA for proposing to permit use of a new sunscreen ingredient, bemotrizinol (BEMT).

Administrative burden: How the AAD can help you

The Academy offers a variety resources to help alleviate your administrative burden. We give you the tools you need for appeals and other administrative processes, so you can get back to patient care.

CMS finalizes and implements evaluation and management visit complexity HCPCS add-on code G2211

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, May 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has officially implemented the novel

The Year in Review — aka ‘That was the Year That Was’

From the President ... Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022. ... By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, FAAD, February 1, 2022 2021…The first year of the third decade of the 21st century has ended. In retrospect, it was a year in limbo for many of us,

Taking care of dermatologists so that they can take care of their patients

From the President ... Dr. Taylor is the Academy’s former president. ... By Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, April 1, 2025 Dear members, ... It was great seeing so many of you in person at the Annual Meeting as I began my term as president. For those of you I

Direct-to-consumer telemedicine websites: Caveat emptor, a prediction, and proposal

Two weeks ago, I experienced pain extending from my right groin to my buttock to the degree that I almost could not bear weight. I felt as though I was 90, and if anyone saw my gait, they would have reached that conclusion. If there were an app for my

September 19

Learn more about September 19 at aad.org

August 17, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 17, 2022 ... Do dietary exclusions improve atopic dermatitis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus — Interfering with interferon Derm Coding Consult : Dermatology

CMS clarifies telehealth and telephone coding during COVID-19 public health emergency

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has clarified its policies on telehealth and telephone coding during the the COVID-19 pandemic.

Accountable care organization (ACO)

ACO dermatology involves practicing within an Accountable Care Organization, a health care model that prioritizes quality, efficiency, and outcomes over volume. Dermatologists in ACO settings participate in value-based care contracts, where reimbursement is tied to patient outcomes, cost savings, and quality metrics rather than the number of procedures performed.

Education: At the core of the Academy

From the President ... Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022. ... By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, FAAD, August 1, 2021 Breaking news: thanks to Steve Feldman, I heard about a book, ... The Case Against Education, that basically debunks the value of education, castigating the

Advancing our advocacy agenda

From the President ... Dr. Taylor is the Academy’s former president. ... By Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, September 1, 2025 Taking care of dermatologists so that they can take care of their patients...and their practices Dear members, ... A strong advocacy agenda is one of the core tenets of

It’s been six months! Here’s what the Academy has done for you…

From the President ... Dr. Kaufmann served as Academy president from March 2022 to March 2023. ... By Mark Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, September 1, 2022 It feels like just yesterday that more than 15,000 of us attended the 2022 AAD Annual Meeting in Boston, and it’s hard to believe that

Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach: The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic autoimmune disease

FcRn antagonists, currently approved for treating myasthenia gravis, show potential for treating pemphigus and other autoimmune diseases.  

Get ready for MIPS in 2019

In Practice ... Faiza Wasif, MPH, is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips on an area she commonly receives questions about from members. ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, February 1, 2019 CMS has made several changes to the 2019 Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS). While CMS did

August 29

Learn more about August 29 at aad.org

DataDerm™: Better your practice, better the specialty

Dermatology World talks with Academy President-Elect George Hruza, MD, MBA — one of the earliest adopters of DataDerm™, the Academy’s clinical data registry. Dr. Hruza shares how DataDerm has helped improve his day-to-day practice, and why participation in DataDerm is so important for the future of the specialty.

November 5, 2025

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 5, 2025 ... An OTC finasteride alternative? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Diagnosing the primary cutaneous SMARCA4 deficient cutaneous tumor — You don’t know what you got ‘til it’s gone

Advocacy Update Oct 28, 2025

After weeks of confusion, CMS allowed MACs to begin processing most claims with dates of service on or after Oct. 1, 2025.

Useful apps for dermatologists

This page includes links to Academy apps that derms can use. It also has a long list of apps that are not endorsed by the Academy but which are in wide industry use. Dermatologists may consider using these apps if they fit well with their practice.

Postmortem: AADA Legislative Conference

From the President ... Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022. ... By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, FAAD, November 1, 2021 Postmortem : "examination of a dead body," or "process of evaluating success (or failure) of a project’s ability to meet its goals." Given that definition,

Advocacy Update Jun 24, 2025

The Senate Finance Committee released its draft tax and health care legislation as part of the budget reconciliation process.

Are we there yet?

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Experts discuss the status of EHR interoperability initiatives ... Experts discuss the status of EHR interoperability initiatives ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer In an ideal world, physicians could access their patients’ health information from other physicians with

Digital marketing for dermatologists 101

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Use these basics to build the perfect practice website ... Use these basics to build the perfect practice website ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor Why should dermatologists care about how they’re portrayed online? “It’s like the yellow

Medical Ego Inflation and a Lesson from Mom

Last week my 95-year-old mother literally returned from the deceased. In classic Hollywood motif, my cousin Elysa, who was at her bedside when she was moribund, was pleading for me to desperately get to there, demanding that the attending do something, as he was asking her about her DNR status.

December 15, 2021

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 15, 2021 ... Female-pattern hair loss: Effect of bicalutamide on minoxidil-induced hypertrichosis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Speculating on spicules — Our incomplete knowledge of trichodysplasia spinulosa DermWorld Young Physician

June 1, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 1, 2022 ... What’s new in adult acne over the last two years? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Granulomatous cheilitis — Back to the Future Derm Coding Consult : Cigna’s

January 13, 2021

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 13, 2020 ... CMS implements congressionally mandated adjustments, avoiding steep Medicare cuts DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Not aging like fine wine — The myths and mysteries of acquired port

MIPS requirements for 2022

Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, Associate Director, Practice Management, June 1, 2022 Each month, DermWorld tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss MIPS requirements. CMS published new requirements for the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for 2022. Review a summary of highlights

Fighting for patient access

Getting involved in grassroots advocacy is critical to the future of dermatology and patient care. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, February 1, 2026 There is no elephant in the room. Medicare physician payment and scope of practice are perennial problems that can have a direct impact

The odd couples

Unlikely partners fuel new consolidation trends ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, June 1, 2021 While the number of physicians becoming hospital employees and the number of hospitals merging into health systems continue to grow, some unlikely players are changing the consolidation landscape. Pharmacy benefits managers are merging

Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 1

Experts offer advice on best practices to ensure financial health before the appointment begins. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, May 1, 2026 When opening her private practice in 2022, Suzanne McGoey, MD, MPH, FAAD, also discovered the challenges of managing the business of medicine. ... "We do

Your Dermatologist Knows media wins 2024

A key part of Your Dermatologist Knows is pitching stories to media outlets in hopes they’ll run news stories sharing information about the wide breadth of knowledge dermatologists have to their readership. We consider every new story published as a result of our pitches as a win, regardless of whether

Payer advocacy 101

Ask the Expert ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, April 1, 2021 DermWorld ... spoke to Louis A. Terranova, assistant director of practice advocacy for the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), about the Academy’s private payer advocacy activities and what members can do to get involved. DermWorld: Briefly, tell

Reducing the burden of clinical documentation with EHRs

In Practice ... By Swapna Bhatia, MPH, June 3, 2019 It’s no surprise that clinical and administration documentation burden with electronic health records (EHRs) has been on the rise. ... Although 78% of dermatology practices reported acquiring an EHR system in the 2017 AAD Practice Profile Survey, the Academy recognizes

August 30, 2023

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 30, 2023 ... Does low-dose oral minoxidil improve hair density in traction alopecia? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A medal-worthy diagnosis: Medallion-like dermal dendrocyte hamartoma Methotrexate: Drug survival and predicative

November 28

Learn more about November 28 at aad.org

Advocacy Update March 3, 2026

The AADA has actively engaged CMS around training requirements for dermatologists performing SRT.

Advocacy Update Jan. 28 2025

The Academy asked the Trump Administration to work with Congress and CMS to prioritize Medicare payment reform and develop a solution to stabilize the physician payment system.

Going green

In Practice ... Drs. Sandra Marchese Johnson and Brad Johnson, MD, opened their practice, Johnson Dermatology, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, in 2006. ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, July 1, 2019 Dermatology World talks to Sandra Marchese Johnson, MD, from Johnson Dermatology in Fort Smith, Arkansas, about the green practice

Easing administrative burdens

Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, August 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss strategies and Academy tools for easing administrative burdens. Regardless of practice setting, all dermatologists encounter administrative burdens. Consequently, physicians must adjust

The evolution of telehealth beyond the pandemic

Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, June 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff explain changes to telemedicine after COVID-19. It has been more than a year since the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency

September 12

Learn more about September 12 at aad.org

March 23, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 23, 2022 ... Acitretin: A new therapy for onychomycosis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A new wrinkle in the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis? Injury and litigation in cutaneous laser surgery

February 14

Learn more about February 14 at aad.org

September 22, 2021

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 22, 2021 ... What treatment is most effective for refractory spontaneous urticaria? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Following up on "A Trend I Cannot Endorse" DermWorld Young Physician Focus :

February 28

Learn more about February 28 at aad.org

Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling — Measure 431

Access reporting information on measure 431: Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling. Review the maximum points available, the measure type, measure specifications, and much more.

2023 MIPS and telehealth highlights

The 2023 MIPS program remains mostly the same from 2022, but there are also important changes, such as the end of performance bonuses, the start of MVPs, and more.

Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling — Measure 431

Access reporting information on measure 431: Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling. Review the maximum points available, the measure type, measure specifications, and much more.

Additional Reasons Payers Request Records

Learn about additional reasons why payers request records.

CLIA in 2025: What dermatology practices need to know now about the updated laboratory requirements

Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, Associate Director, Practice Management, August 1, 2025 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss what dermatology practices need to know about the updated laboratory requirements. Whether your office does potassium hydroxide (KOH) preps,

What to expect for MIPS 2024

Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff explains what to expect for MIPS 2024. On Nov. 2, 2023, CMS released the final Quality Payment Program (QPP) Rule which includes

The anti-markup rule applied to dermatology

Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq., December 1, 2025 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney

What is the Academy doing about burdensome private payer policies?

Moving the needle ... By Lou Terranova, Associate Director, Practice Advocacy, December 1, 2023 DermWorld ... interviews Mollie MacCormack, MD, FAAD, chair of the AADA’s Patient Access and Payer Relations Committee, about payer issues the Academy is currently addressing. Mollie MacCormack, MD, FAAD ... DermWorld: What does payer advocacy entail?

Payer contracts redux

Legally Speaking ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., December 1, 2023 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. Alice G. Gosfield, Esq ... In 2016, I wrote an ... article

MIPS 2020 is here. Here are the highlights

Answers in Practice ... Faiza Wasif, MPH, is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips on an area she commonly receives questions about from members. ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, April 1, 2020 Each month Dermatology World ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Faiza Wasif,

CMS releases third and fourth quarter NCCI edits

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, January 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released its third and fourth quarterly

How to participate in AAD’s DataDerm™ clinical data registry

Legally Speaking ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Ben Tesdahl, JD, LL.M, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, September 1, 2023 Every month, ... DermWorld covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s authors are health care attorneys with Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Ben Tesdahl, JD, LL.M, and Robert M.

What dermatologists need to know about ongoing telehealth policies in 2025

Implications for dermatology practices and the need for enhanced compliance ... Answers in Practice ... By Oliva Barry, Manager, Practice Management, February 1, 2025 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss important telehealth updates in 2025. Teledermatology saw a significant surge

February 26, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 26, 2020 ... Plantar warts: Shave with PDT or cryotherapy? DW Insights and Inquiries : A niche with NICH Legislators seek to expand sunscreen ingredient ban Young Physician Focus :

August 15

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December 12

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Removing the veil

Predatory conferences and journals may be fake, but their impact is real. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, July 1, 2024 Few things impact a physician’s career more than speaking at prestigious conferences or getting published in renowned medical journals. But what if these opportunities are not as

Powering down

A step-by-step guide for physicians retiring from practice ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, April 1, 2021 Opening your practice didn’t happen overnight and retiring from it won’t happen overnight either. However, with some thoughtful planning, your retirement can be a seamless transition to the next phase of

Side gig

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What can physicians do in addition to clinical services, and how do you get started? ... What can physicians do in addition to clinical services, and how do you get started? ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor While

Is your practice ready for coding in 2023 and beyond?

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, March 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . As health care continues to evolve,

September 5

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May 13, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 13, 2020 ... Caring for older patients during COVID-19? What you need to know. DW Insights and Inquiries: The profound dermatological manifestations of COVID-19: Part V – Pediatric multisystem inflammatory

May 27, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 27, 2020 ... How to classify COVID-19 rashes DW Insights and Inquiries : On the cusp of extraordinary advances in extramammary Paget disease Derm Coding Consult : Telephone code Medicare

Do Not End Up On the OIG Medicare List of Overpayment Recoveries Statistics

Learn how to avoid being subject to OIG Medicare overpayment recovery.

2026 MIPS and telehealth highlights

The 2026 MIPS program features some changes, including the continuing rollout of the MIPS Value Pathway for dermatology. See our highlights on what dermatologists need to know about participating in MIPS.

Susan Boiko, MD, FAAD

Offering support and skills, from clinic to camp. ... Donor Spotlight ... By Dean Monti, Managing Editor, Special Publications, November 1, 2024 In this column, DermWorld ... highlights individual members who have gone above and beyond with their Academy contributions. Susan Boiko, MD, FAAD ... As you’re reading this, Susan

“Incident to”: What you need to know

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, May 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . What is "incident to"? ... "Incident

Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1

Cracking the code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, September 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1 ... Take the quiz to see

July 18

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Sky high

PBM tactics increase drug prices, lower patient access ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, September 1, 2022 Last month, ... DermWorld discussed the role pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) play in the drug distribution chain. This month, we will discuss some of the tactics PBMs use that are driving

Piecemeal policy

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Trump administration addresses health care policies in small bites ... Trump administration addresses health care policies in small bites ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer While the Trump administration has raced to eliminate the Affordable Care Act (ACA),

Practicing cosmetic dermatology during COVID-19

Answers in Practice ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, November 1, 2020 DermWorld ... talks with Sean Wu, MD, Monica Boen, MD, Douglas C. Wu, MD, PhD, and Mitchel P. Goldman, MD, from Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, about best practices for offering cosmetic dermatology during COVID-19. DermWorld: How

Navigating MIPS 2026: A survival guide for dermatology practices

Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2026 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss navigating MIPS in 2026. CMS has released the rules for the MIPS program for 2026 and continues to encourage use of

Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 3

Cracking the code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, November 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 3 ... Take the quiz to see

Patients who lose their insurance: To treat or not to treat?

Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, and Christina L. Krysinski, JD, January 1, 2018 Recent proposals in Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act have raised the

The billing company relationship: A most significant ‘other’

Legally Speaking ... Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., July 1, 2025 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield

Components of evaluation and management

Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, May 1, 2018 Test your knowledge: Components of evaluation and management ... Take the quiz to see if you're

September 21, 2022

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 21, 2022 ... Does low-dose oral minoxidil affect blood pressure, heart rate? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The emergence of rituximab-induced pyoderma gangrenosum — An alert to dermatologists DermWorld Young

November 4, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / November 4, 2020 ... FDA approves OTC head lice lotion DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Striving to alleviate the physical and emotional scars of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia The future of

February 20

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Demonstrate your value to drive revenue for your practice

See our practical ways you can demonstrate your value and help your practice grow. Every patient interaction, workflow improvement, and idea for growth can strengthen your practice’s success, allowing you to play a key role in driving both quality and revenue.

Implications of the Corporate Transparency Act for physicians

Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Jason Qu, JD, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, April 1, 2024 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This

2024 CPT coding updates

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, November 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has

Trialing it out

In Practice ... Craig Leonardi, MD, from Central Dermatology in St. Louis, specializes in treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis and other dermatologic diseases. He is also an adjunct professor of dermatology at St. Louis University Medical School. ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor, July 2, 2018 Dermatology World

What are the CLIA requirements for lab operations?

Learn the CLIA requirements for operating a lab. This page provides detailed guidance on what different levels of lab certification require for compliance. In particular, it describes the personnel requirements for medium and high complexity labs, where personnel must have certain levels of credentials to meet CLIA regulations.

AAD education: A crash course

DermWorld highlights the Academy’s educational development strategy. ... Feature ... By Matthew Walsh, Member Communications Specialist, November 1, 2024 "Our vision is for the Academy to be recognized as the gold standard source of education for dermatologists," said Amit Garg, MD, FAAD, chair of the Academy’s Council on Education. "Maintaining

False advertising

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... How to spot fakes in medicine ... How to spot fakes in medicine ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor The ongoing criminal investigation of a disgraced Silicon Valley CEO, a false German heiress who infiltrated New York high

CMS Pays for Communication Technology-based Services, Effective 2019

Given the recent ubiquitous nature of synchronous audio and video applications available for download and the increased use of patient-facing health portals, the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that a broad range of services can be provided by healthcare professionals via communication technology. ... Remote Evaluation

Dermatology World Weekly

An archive of issues of DermWorld Weekly.

Taking the lead

DermWorld shares stories of the Leadership Institute’s influence on dermatologists. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, April 1, 2026 Just as it is when striving to become a great dermatologist, being a great leader is a learned skill, said Jeremy Bordeaux, MD, MPH, FAAD. ... That’s one of

ADA issues for dermatology practice websites

Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Ben Tesdahl, JD, LLM, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, May 1, 2024 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s authors are

Dermatologic ergonomics: Straighten up and fly right

Ergonomic training should start with residency and continue throughout a career to avoid potentially serious musculoskeletal injury.

June 17, 2020

Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 17, 2020 ... Treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic? Here’s how to minimize your malpractice liability risk. DW Insights and Inquiries : Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation —

Granulomatous cheilitis: Back to the Future

Read the June 1, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on granulomatous cheilitis.

Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 3

Experts offer advice on best practices for monitoring and auditing income. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer , July 1, 2026 The dermatologist sees their patient, finalizes their notes, closes the chart, and submits their claims. ... However, the revenue cycle is far from over. ... Careful consideration

Moving target

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatologists have good options for treating actinic keratosis, but price fluctuations make picking the highest value option difficult ... Dermatologists have good options for treating actinic keratosis, but price fluctuations make picking the highest value option difficult ...

How is structural racism affecting atopic dermatitis in African American children?

Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, November 1, 2020 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Craig Burkhart, MD, MPH, MSBS,

Excision and biopsy of soft tissue tumors: Coding, payment, and site-of-service considerations

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, February 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Accurate coding and understanding of payment implications

Preparing for 2025 MIPS and the new dermatological care MVP

Answers in Practice ... By Oliva Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2025 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss what to expect for MIPS 2025. MIPS program timeline ... In November, CMS released the ... final rule for the Quality

MIPS Value Pathways

Get a glimpse into the upcoming federal quality program and how the Academy is taking the lead ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, September 1, 2022 In 2017, CMS launched the Quality Payment Program, which created two payment pathways for physicians: alternative payment models (APMs) and the

Getting started with Medicare

This page covers Medicare essentials, including payment rates, enrollment basics, modifiers and global periods, MPPR, MIPS, and Medicare Advocacy.

Truth in advertising

... Alabama Licensure identification Board certification (BC) Derm-specific BC Misleading advertising Licensees are prohibited from using a title in which in any way represents such person as engaged in the practice of any branch of the healing arts for which such person holds no license. ... n/a ... n/a

Extending medicine's reach

DermWorld takes a look at the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, January 1, 2023 In 1925, inventor and publisher Hugo Gernsback wrote in ... Science and Invention magazine of a "teledactyl," a device that would allow doctors to not only see their patients

Coding lessons learned from frequently asked questions in 2023

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, December 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . 2023 has come to a close

Telemedicine in the age of COVID-19: What’s happened and what’s to come

Legally Speaking ... By Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, March 1, 2022 Every month, DermWorld covers legal issues in Legally Speaking. This month’s authors are health care attorneys with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville in Washington, D.C. Portman is also general counsel for the

Entering a golden age of toxins

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... As more drugs and treatment indications receive FDA clearance, how do the new arrivals compare to industry heavyweights? ... As more drugs and treatment indications receive FDA clearance, how do the new arrivals compare to industry heavyweights? ...

To 78 or 79: Coding for procedure services during the global period

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, October 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Reporting dermatology procedures and services during

Career launch

This definitive AAD guide is an essential resource for early-career dermatologists. Use expert guidance and tools to build a successful career.

What to know about coding dermatology encounters after the Public Health Emergency (PHE) and beyond

Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, January 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Editor’s Note: The online version of

Post-pandemic checklist

The COVID public health emergency has ended. Experts discuss how dermatologists can stay compliant amid a changing policy landscape. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, June 1, 2024 COVID-19 is "over" — what’s next? ... In May 2023, the Biden Administration announced the end of the COVID-19 public

Making the cut

How are NIH grant funding uncertainties affecting dermatology research and careers? ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, September 1, 2026 For nearly one century, federal funding has been one of the pillars of medical innovation. ... Janet Fairley, MD, FAAD — president of the Dermatology Foundation and former

Out of the (check) box

Dermatologists break down how to make quality and practice improvement activities manageable while benefiting their practice and patients. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, December 1, 2022 Quality improvement (QI) efforts are increasingly tied to reimbursement. Reporting measures in the quality category of the Merit-based Incentive Payment

Seeing eye to eye

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... When insurance doesn't cover standard of care treatments, who pays the price and what can be done about it? ... When insurance doesn't cover standard of care treatments, who pays the price and what can be done about

Erosion of administrative support in dermatology

What has caused it, and what resources can help? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, November 1, 2023 A successful dermatology office is characterized not only by quality patient care, but also efficient administrative practices. However, current data indicate that the administrative burden placed on physicians and their

An appetite for healthy skin

Can diet affect dermatologic health? Experts weigh in on the evidence. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, November 1, 2020 You are what you eat — more than just a mantra, the phrase encapsulates a growing public desire for food-based solutions to targeted health outcomes. However, mixed media

23andDermatology

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor Spit, swab, drop DNA in the mail. Since genetic tests were first offered

Don't break the bank!

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... How to do the math before adopting new technology ... How to do the math before adopting new technology ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor From iPads, to hair-removal devices, to patient portals, there’s no shortage of

Provider playbook

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Nurse practitioners intensify efforts to expand scope of practice ... Nurse practitioners intensify efforts to expand scope of practice ... By Jan Bowers, contributing writer When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the U.S. in 2020, nurse practitioners (NPs)

Professionalism and Ethics

The AAD’s Professionalism and Ethics Committee has proposed a five-part voluntary statement, now ratified by the AAD Board of Directors. The statement sets the basic framework for an ethical practice; it is not designed to set unattainable or unrealistic standards. As such, it is hoped that AAD members will strive

Examining the monograph

Dissecting the FDA’s proposed rule on the over-the-counter sunscreen monograph and what dermatologists might expect in the coming years. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, November 1, 2020 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been regulating sunscreen since the beginning of the monograph system in

Scent-sitive skin

Contact dermatitis experts discuss regulatory complexities of the fragrance industry and share tips for identifying and managing allergens. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, November 1, 2024 Ask a contact dermatitis expert — what’s one of the toughest allergies to manage? ... "Probably fragrance," said Christen Mowad, MD,

Employee voices

Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatologists offer first-person perspectives on life as an employed physician ... Dermatologists offer first-person perspectives on life as an employed physician ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor For the average dermatologist 20 years ago, starting a career also

iPLEDGE advocacy updates

These member communications track the Academy's ongoing advocacy efforts for the dermatology specialty on the iPLEDGE Program, including calls to suspend the program during the transition to new rules.