Overview
Having a skin condition or issue can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. It's important to know when to see a dermatologist and when you can seek help from your primary care provider (PCP). Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating skin, hair, and nail conditions, and while many skin conditions can be treated by your PCP, there are times when you may need to see a dermatologist for specialized care.
When to See a Dermatologist
General Guidance
Most people should see a dermatologist for routine check-ups at least once a year. If you have any of the following symptoms or conditions, you may need to see a dermatologist for an appointment:
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole
- Rash that covers more than 10% of your body
- Persistent dry, itchy, or reddened skin
- Severe acne or acne that causes scarring
- Unusual pigmentation changes on your skin
- Sores that don't heal within two weeks
- Unexpected hair loss or bald spots
- Sign of aging or unsightly veins
Specific Conditions
The following are some specific skin conditions that may require a referral to see a dermatologist:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Psoriasis
- Alopecia areata
- Vitiligo
- Tinea versicolor
- Acanthosis nigricans
- Squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma
- An allergic reaction or contact dermatitis
When to Seek Help from Your Primary Care Provider
Common Skin Issues
For many common skin issues, your PCP is a good first stop. They will examine you, and if necessary, refer you to a specialist. In the following situations, it may be better to seek help from your PCP rather than visiting a dermatologist:
- Milder forms of acne that your PCP can treat
- Minor rashes or allergies that don't require a specialist's expertise
- Simple skin真菌 infections like athlete's foot or ringworm that can be easily treated by your PCP
urgent or emergency considerations
In very rare cases, a skin condition can be a sign of a medical emergency and may require timely medical attention. If you have any of the following symptoms, seek immediate treatment:
- Painful, peeling skin
- Blisters on skin after exposure to sun or chemicals
- Streaks of redness under the skin that spread quickly
- Blisters in the mouth, eyes, or genitalia
- Fever, joint pain, difficulty swallowing, severe headache, or muscle pain
Conclusion
In summary, it completely depends upon the type of insurance coverage you have. Some HMOs will let you meet with anyone in their network without a referral, but some don’t. If you have PPO coverage you’ll probably need a referral from your primary care physician. Whether you need a referral or not, it's always best to double check with member services to confirm their policy to ensure you’re covered before you book the appointment.
