The Surest guide to skin cancer
You have so much to think about with a cancer diagnosis—the last thing you should have to worry about is your insurance. Surest offers comprehensive cancer care coverage. Use this resource to better understand treatment options and your benefits on the Surest plan. You can also request a call from the Surest clinical team. We’re here to help.
Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer. The two main types of nonmelanoma skin cancer are:
- Basal cell skin cancer
- Squamous cell skin cancer
When found and treated early, most of these skin cancers can be cured.
Melanoma is a kind of skin cancer in which abnormal skin cells grow out of control. It isn't as common as other types of skin cancer, but it is the most serious because it can spread quickly to other parts of the body.
What types of doctors might I see?
Dermatologist—a specialist in skin disorders
Medical oncologist—a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer
Radiation oncologist—a specialist in using radiation therapy to treat cancer
Surgical oncologist—who has special training in cancer surgery
Search the Surest app or website for the type of specialty provider to view and compare copays for providers. The copay for an office visit will vary based on the provider and office location. Surest evaluates providers based on past performance for things like effectiveness and cost-efficient care. Those considered high value are often priced lower. If you know the name of the provider you’d like to see, you can also search by a specific name to see details. Contact Member Services if you have questions about cost or coverage.
What types of tests might I need?
Laboratory tests: Urine and blood tests
Many urine and blood tests are covered at a $0 copay when done by an in-network provider. If your labs are drawn during a provider visit, a copay for the provider visit will apply. You can find the office visit copay in the Surest app under the doctor's name.
Laboratory tests: Genetic testing
Genetic testing is used to look for inherited gene mutations that might put someone at higher risk of getting certain kinds of cancer.
These tests may need authorization before the test is done. Your in-network provider will initiate this process with Surest. Genetic testing prices will vary depending on the type of test and how it’s done.
Imaging tests
The cost for an in-network X-ray or ultrasound is a $0 copay. Note the copay is based on the exact location, not the health care system/group. Ask your provider to send your imaging test orders to the location you choose.
- CT scan: A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to make detailed pictures of parts of your body and the structures inside your body. During the test, you will lie on a table that is attached to the CT scanner. The CT scanner is a large doughnut-shaped machine.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. When you have an MRI, you lie on a table and your body is moved into the MRI machine, where an image is taken of the area of the body being studied.
- PET scan: Positron emission tomography (PET) scans use a doughnut-shaped special type of camera, and a radioactive substance called a “tracer” to look at organs in the body. A computed tomography (CT) scan is often done at the same time as a PET scan.
- Bone scan: A test that identifies new areas of bone growth or breakdown. During a bone scan, a small amount of radioactive substance (radionuclide) is injected into the bloodstream. A camera takes pictures of the location of the radioactive substance in the bone.
Biopsy
A biopsy is a sample of tissue collected from an organ or other part of the body. The sample is then examined by a doctor trained to look at tissue samples (pathologist). The procedure of collecting the sample of tissue or cells is also called a biopsy. Types of biopsies for skin cancer can include:
- Skin biopsy, which can be performed as a shave, punch biopsy, or excisional biopsy
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA)
- Lymph node biopsy
Your provider will talk with you about which type of biopsy is best for your care. A biopsy can be done in the office or as an outpatient procedure. If you aren’t sure whether your biopsy is considered an office visit or outpatient procedure, contact your doctor’s office.
Can I get help making decisions about treatments?
With an increasing number of cancer treatments available, it's common to feel uncertain about your treatment plan and what is ahead. Surest can help. We have a clinical team available to help you navigate important decisions.
Our Clinical Advocacy team can also help you find other doctors who specialize in skin cancer to get a second opinion on your treatment plan. Don’t worry about offending your current provider team when seeking a second opinion. You’re taking an active role in learning more about your condition and most doctors encourage second opinions. The Surest team is here to support you. I'd like some help.
What are common skin cancer treatments?
Use the Surest app or website to search for specialty providers or types of treatment noted below. Copays may vary based on who delivers the service and where that service is provided. Surest copays are often lower for providers who may help you feel better, faster.
Surgery
Surgery is used to prevent, diagnose, stage, and treat cancer. Surgery can also relieve discomfort or problems related to cancer.
Common types of surgery that may be recommended for skin cancer include:
- Standard skin cancer excision
- Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS)
- Cryotherapy
- Lymph node dissection
Share price information with your doctor to help decide where to have surgery. Many providers practice at multiple locations, so ask about location choices.
Radiation treatment
Radiation therapy uses high-energy particles/waves to destroy or damage cancer cells. Radiation may be delivered by a machine outside the body (external radiation therapy) or inside your body (brachytherapy).
Some types of radiation therapy may need prior authorization. Your doctor will initiate this process with Surest.
Drug treatment
Drug treatments include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. These medicines may be used alone or in combination and can be given by infusion, injection, or as pills. For skin cancer, there may be topical medicines applied directly to the skin. Other points worth noting:
- Injections and infusions can be given in the office, in an inpatient facility or an outpatient setting. A copay will apply each time you go in for an infusion or injection.
- Sometimes, an implanted port or central venous line may be needed for the delivery of drug treatment
- The cost of pills will depend on the type of medicine. You may be directed to an outside pharmacy site if your pharmacy information is separate from Surest. If you see that prompt, follow the directions to see your cost for the medicine.
- Some medications may need prior authorization. Your in-network provider will initiate this process with Surest, if needed
What other services might help?
Use the Surest app or website to search for specialty providers or types of care noted below. Copays may vary based on who delivers the service and where that service is provided. Surest copays are often lower for providers who may help you feel better, faster.
Dietitian
A dietitian visit can be helpful if you have problems related to food and digestion.
Home care
Home care (home health care) services are usually provided through a home health agency. Services may include care from nurses, therapists, social workers, and home care aides. Home care may also supply certain types of medical equipment for you.
To receive home care services, your provider will place an order for the service
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine and can help with symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting. Acupuncture uses very thin needles to influence energy flow; sometimes heat, pressure, or mild electrical current is used along with needles.
Palliative care
The goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for people with a serious, life-threatening illness. The palliative care team helps with symptoms and side effects of the disease and treatment. They also work with you on any related psychological, social, or spiritual needs. It’s common to receive both palliative care and cancer treatment at the same time. Palliative care doesn’t include respite care or hospice services. Contact the Surest Clinical Advocacy team for help accessing those services.
Support for stress, anxiety, and uncertainty
A cancer diagnosis often affects the emotional health of patients, families, and caregivers. You’re not alone. Talk to your provider and loved ones about how you are feeling. Surest provides comprehensive coverage for mental health care. Get more details with our Mental Health guide.
Surest is here to help.
The Surest Clinical Advocacy team is here to help you:
- Understand important decisions about your treatments
- Identify quality in-network doctors and facilities
- Share your preferences for care with doctors and other specialists on your care team
- Navigate your Surest benefits and understand costs for services
- Learn about resources and support groups with other people going through a similar challenge
Other cancer resources
Was this helpful?
This content is not medical advice. You should always consult with your health care professional.