Rosascea
Rosacea is a facial rash that most commonly develops in adults. In its first stage, rosacea manifests as red skin that feels tight and may burn or sting. The rash spreads in the second stage and may swell, develop large whiteheads, and enlarge pores. Centered in the middle of the face — nose, chin and forehead — the rash can cause these parts of the face to grow in the third stage, also called rhinophyma, though, progression to this stage is rare.
Click on the below links to learn more about this condition and its effects on your medical coverage:
- Treatment options for rosacea
- Ways you can prevent rosacea
- Difficulties you may encounter when buying a health plan
- Medical coverage options for those with rosacea
Treating Rosacea
Treatment options for rosacea are numerous. They include cream antibiotics like Retin-A or vitamin C cream applied directly to the affected areas daily and oral antibiotics like Tetracycline or Accutane. Dye laser treatments are appropriate for the early stages of rosacea but they are expensive and not covered by insurance. CO2 laser treatments are available for rhinophyma and these usually are covered by insurance as the condition is so disfiguring. There is no cure for rosacea so these treatments usually must continue whenever there is a flare up.
Are There Any Preventative Measures Which May Prevent Rosacea?
Because the cause of rosacea is unknown, it is difficult to prevent its onset if you are predisposed to it. The best way to handle it is to avoid common triggers like sunlight by using sunscreen. Other triggers may include spicy food, caffeinated drinks and alcohol.
How Might Rosacea Affect My Ability to Get Health Insurance?
Unfortunately, most insurance companies consider the early stages of rosacea nothing more than a cosmetic issue and therefore not a health concern that deserves coverage. Laser treatments for the third and most serious stage of rosacea are usually covered, however, because it can be so disfiguring. Insurance companies that will cover early stages of rosacea will require that you provide a certification from your doctor outlining the severity of the problem, the prescribed treatment and how many sessions will be necessary in order to treat your rosacea. You may include photos of your rash and medical journal articles that support your need for treatment. In general, redness or whiteheads are not considered insurable but severe flushing, burning and swelling are.
What Insurance Options Are Available to Those Who Have Rosacea?
A letter of medical necessity from your doctor may be all you need to get your treatments covered by your insurance. Because it is usually a lifelong health problem, if your current insurance does not cover you, you may decide to switch insurers. Even if they deem your rosacea a preexisting condition and impose a waiting period, it will be worth it if they eventually cover your treatments.
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Last Updated : Tuesday, August 14, 2007