Advocacy Update Feb. 3, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 3, 2026
Dermatologists urged Washington state to support truth in advertising
Academy asks CMS to reduce regulatory burdens on dermatology
Truth in Advertising
Dermatologists urged Washington state to support truth in advertising
The AADA urged (PDF) Washington legislators to support HB 2261, which would ensure transparency in credentials and communications between patients and health care professionals.
Specifically, the bill would require physicians and non-physician clinicians to disclose in advertising and through photo identification their name, the type of state-issued license, and initials of any health care related degrees that they hold during patient encounters. It would also prohibit anyone from representing themselves as either an “osteopathic physician surgeon” or a “physician surgeon” unless they have met specific requirements. These requirements include licensure, completion of a surgical residency or fellowship, board certification, and continuing education.
The Washington House Health Care and Wellness Committee held a hearing on Jan. 28. The bill is also supported by the Washington State Medical Association.
The AADA is monitoring the progress of this issue.
Payer Advocacy
Humana corrects destruction code denials
As a direct result of AADA advocacy, Humana confirmed a claims issue and will reprocess denied claims and make updates to prevent further incorrect denials for benign and premalignant lesion destruction codes.
AADA reminded Humana that a Medicare national coverage determination and MAC local coverage determination govern coverage of these codes. AADA staff will continue to monitor for full resolution.
Members may report any further Humana denials to the privatepayer@aad.org.
Regulatory Advocacy
Academy asks CMS to reduce regulatory burdens on dermatology
The AADA continues to fight against administrative burdens, including prior authorizations, by insisting that CMS make meaningful changes for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.
On Jan. 23, the Academy submitted comments (PDF) to CMS on the Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D proposed rule. The letter provided recommendations in support of dermatologists on network adequacy, termination notifications, risk adjustment, prior authorization, timely appeals, and utilization management policies and procedures.
AADA News
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SkinPAC helps strengthen our relationships on Capitol Hill and reinforces our grassroots and lobbying efforts. Your contribution today will help ensure we have the resources we need to ramp up our fight to reform Medicare physician payment in the new Congress.
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