
What a dermatologist does
Dermatologists diagnose and treat conditions of the skin, hair, and nails: skin cancer, suspicious moles, acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and chronic rashes. Many practices also offer cosmetic services such as fillers and laser treatments for appearance alone.
What CHAMPVA covers for dermatology
Medically necessary dermatology is covered outpatient care with the standard deductible and 25 percent cost share, and no referral is required. Skin cancer screening and treatment, biopsies, and treatment of skin disease are covered. Federal regulation excludes cosmetic surgery performed primarily to improve appearance, so a procedure done only for looks is your own expense, while reconstructive work after an accidental injury is covered.
Find dermatologists who can bill CHAMPVA, by state
Pick your state. The search opens with the Dermatology filter already selected and shows real practice locations from the federal NPPES registry, with street addresses and local phone numbers. Then call with the 20-second script to confirm CHAMPVA.
Common questions
Does CHAMPVA cover dermatologist visits?
Yes, for medically necessary care such as skin cancer screening, biopsies, and treatment of skin conditions. Cosmetic procedures are excluded by regulation.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist with CHAMPVA?
No. CHAMPVA does not require referrals for specialist visits.
Does CHAMPVA pay for Botox, fillers, or cosmetic laser treatments?
No. Cosmetic surgery performed primarily to improve appearance is excluded. Reconstructive surgery after an accidental injury is covered.
Related guides
Sources
- CHAMPVA care: what is covered and what it costs (VA.gov)
- Getting care through CHAMPVA: network, referrals, and preauthorization (VA.gov)
- CHAMPVA provider fact sheet, VA IB-10-1587 (PDF)
- 38 CFR 17.272, CHAMPVA benefit limitations and exclusions (eCFR)
General information, not medical or insurance advice. Coverage rules are set by the VA and federal regulation and can change; confirm with CHAMPVA at 800-733-8387 before treatment.