Advocacy Update March 24, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / March 24, 2026
Academy calls out FDA in media for withdrawing proposed rule on sunlamp regulation
AADA advocates for Medicare payment reform at affordability hearing
AADA opposed Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan modifier 25 policy
Academy pushes for swift action and unambiguous revisions to SRT LCD policy
Dermatologists advocate against pharmacist scope expansion in Maryland
Indoor Tanning
Academy calls out FDA in media for withdrawing proposed rule on sunlamp regulation
The Academy’s recent statement on the FDA’s withdrawal of a proposed rule on sunlamp regulation drove media coverage, encouraging the FDA to reconsider this action.
President Susan Taylor, MD, FAAD, was featured in NBC News On Air, NBC News Online, NPR, and MedPage Today discussing the impact of the FDA’s recent action on tanning among younger people. In the articles, Dr. Taylor talked about the rise in melanoma among younger people and the fact that indoor tanning causes melanoma.
The AADA opposes the use of sunlamp products among minors and will be engaging with the FDA to advocate for policies that reflect AADA’s position.
Medicare Physician Payment Reform
AADA advocates for Medicare payment reform at affordability hearing
The AADA submitted a statement (PDF) pressing Congress on the need for Medicare physician payment reform at a hearing of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.
The AADA made the case that declining Medicare reimbursement rates have led to increased consolidation in the health marketplace, which is limiting patient access and increasing both patient costs and national health expenditures. The urgent need to address Medicare physician payment reform was echoed in testimony from several physician witnesses, as well as questions and statements from members of the subcommittee.
Payer Advocacy
AADA opposed Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan modifier 25 policy
The Academy continues to fight for fair reimbursement for the patient care provided. Recently the AADA opposed (PDF) the modifier 25 payment reduction policy from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM).
Effective May 1, the policy would reduce payment of the evaluation and management (E/M) service by 50% when reported with a minor procedure using modifier 25. The AADA has been actively coordinating advocacy with the Michigan State Medical Society and the Michigan Dermatological Society.
Regulatory Advocacy
Academy pushes for swift action and unambiguous revisions to SRT LCD policy
The Academy continues to advocate for changes to recently implemented Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) governing the use of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) for the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancers.
The policies, which took effect March 1 and were issued by five Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) — NGS, WPS, Palmetto, Noridian, and CGS — recognize dermatologists as qualified physicians to perform SRT but include a requirement that training be obtained exclusively through residency or fellowship programs.
Although the MACs published revised language on March 19, the AADA finds the update inadequate as it maintains the original, restrictive training requirement. Furthermore, the restrictive language also remains in the SRT LCD’s documentation requirements section.
The Academy has formally raised concerns with CMS and the MACs and offered alternative language that would fully address our concerns. The AADA and Dermatologic Contractor Advisory Committee continue to communicate with CMS and the MACs to ensure a swift resolution.
Scope of Practice
Dermatologists advocate against pharmacist scope expansion in Maryland
The Maryland Dermatologic Society and the AADA asked (PDF) legislators to oppose pending legislation that would allow pharmacists to diagnose and treat patients for skin conditions and prescribe medications and devices. The bills were heard in their respective committees, but no vote has been held.
Scope of Practice
New Jersey dermatologists fight NP independent practice
The Dermatological Society of New Jersey urged (PDF) members of the New Jersey Assembly Appropriations Committee to oppose a nurse practitioner independent practice bill. The legislation would allow independent practice after 24 months or 2,400 hours of licensed, active, advanced nursing.
New Jersey Governor Sherrill recently issued Executive Order No. 13, extending for another 45 days the COVID-era waiver that permits advanced practice nurses to practice independently. This action continues a temporary policy that had been expected to sunset on Feb. 16.
AADA News
Join us at SkinPAC Annual Meeting events
SkinPAC is excited to host two events this week to thank our 2026 donors at the Annual Meeting in Denver. Our annual SkinPAC Donor Reception will take place at Tamayo Restaurant (1400 Larimer St.) on March 26 from 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and is open to all 2026 SkinPAC members who contribute $250+ and residents who contribute $25+. RSVP to skinpac@aad.org.
SkinPAC will also host our annual SkinPAC Donor Lounge, open to all 2026 members at the Silver ($1,000) level and above ($100 for residents). The lounge will be Room 111/113 of the Colorado Convention Center and will serve as a fun place to relax and connect with colleagues during the Annual Meeting, as well as enjoy breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The lounge will be open during exhibit hall hours on March 27 and 28 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) and from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. on March 29.
Contribute online at skinpac@aad.org or by texting SkinPAC to 71777.
Membership dues money cannot be used for political purposes, so your personal contribution to SkinPAC is critical.
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.
