Advocacy Update Oct. 21, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 21, 2025
Dermatology and others opposed dental hygienist Botox use in Oregon
AADA supports Administration’s sunscreen initiative; explores innovative promotion efforts
Government Shutdown
ICYMI: CMS reverses decision to hold Medicare payments
CMS reversed its October 15 decision to hold Medicare reimbursement payments. CMS has since indicated it will be processing and issuing payments in a timely manner. No payment should be delayed as statute requires all claims to be held for a minimum of 14 days.
Based on the updated communication from CMS, dermatologists should not anticipate an interruption in their Medicare payments.
If you’re experiencing any issues related to the government shutdown or have questions, please contact regulatory@aad.org.
For the latest information, physicians should monitor their Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) website and this CMS webpage.
Scope of Practice
Dermatology and others opposed dental hygienist Botox use in Oregon
The AADA joined four physician organizations and urged the Oregon Board of Dentistry (PDF) to oppose allowing dental hygienists to administer botulinum toxins to treat conditions that are within the oral and maxillofacial region.
The proposal would have added this procedure to a rule that currently governs “additional functions” that dental hygienists are permitted to perform, such as teeth whitening, applying fluoride varnishes, and placing or removing periodontal dressings, among many other functions.
AADA joined the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Aesthetic Foundation, and the Aesthetic Society on the letter. The AADA opposed a similar proposal in Massachusetts in September.
Regulatory Affairs
AADA supports Administration’s sunscreen initiative; explores innovative promotion efforts
The AADA expressed strong support (PDF) for the sunscreen initiative outlined in the Make America Healthy Again Commission’s Make Our Children Healthy Again strategy. The initiative seeks to promote innovation in the U.S. sunscreen market and to modernize the regulatory process for over-the-counter sunscreen products to strengthen public health and protect children from preventable sun damage.
Payer Advocacy
AADA addressed key payment issues with Aetna
The AADA continues to address payment issues with Aetna related to its Evaluation and Management (E/M) review and prior authorization programs. Effective Jan. 1, 2026, Aetna will implement a 7-day turnaround time for Medicare Advantage prior authorization review claims for medications and procedures, potentially delaying critical treatments for dermatology patients. and increasing administrative burdens.
Currently, Aetna’s E/M prior authorization program review only targets identified individual physicians for review, impacting 3% of its entire physician network. When a claim is identified, the Explanation of Benefits will include Action Code R11 as a means to identify a reduced payment. Physicians are encouraged to appeal if warranted. The AADA will continue to monitor anticipated changes and update members.
AADA News
Support SkinPAC
As of Oct. 16, SkinPAC has raised $916,877 from 817 individuals. Contribute online at www.skinpac.org or by texting SkinPAC to 71777. Help us keep up the momentum as we advocate for Medicare physician payment reform! SkinPAC helps strengthen our relationships on Capitol Hill and reinforces our grassroots and lobbying efforts.
Email skinpac@aad.org with any questions.
The political purpose of the American Academy of Dermatology Association Political Action Committee ("SkinPAC") is to solicit and receive contributions to be used to make political campaign expenditures to those candidates for elective office, and other federal political committees, who demonstrate understanding and interest in the view and goals of the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Contributions to SkinPAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions to SkinPAC must be made from your funds and may not be reimbursed. SkinPAC cannot accept contributions from corporate accounts. Any recommended contribution amount is merely a suggestion. All AADA members have the right to contribute more or less or refuse to contribute without reprisal. Federal law prohibits us from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, physical address, occupation, and name of the employer whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.
