Booking a private dermatology appointment can be one of the best decisions you make for your skin health. Whether you’re dealing with persistent acne, sudden rashes, a suspicious mole, or just want faster access to specialist care, going private means shorter waiting times, more personalised treatment plans, and the convenience of choosing when and where you’re seen. But there’s one big question that often stops people in their tracks: Will my health insurance cover this?
Many patients in the UK feel uncertain when it comes to private medical insurance especially around what it actually includes. Does it cover initial consultations, or just treatment? Will you need a GP referral first? Are all dermatology clinics eligible? And what about the fine print around exclusions or policy limits?
It’s no surprise that confusion around insurance often leads people to delay care or assume they’ll have to pay entirely out of pocket. But the reality is, your private medical insurance may cover more than you think if you know how to navigate the system.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how private dermatology coverage typically works in the UK, what to check in your policy before making an appointment, and how to avoid unexpected bills when it’s time to pay. Whether you’re insured with Bupa, AXA, Aviva, or another provider, this article will help you feel confident about your options and your next steps.
Why Choose a Private Dermatologist?
Let’s start with the obvious: the NHS is under immense strain. While it remains one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems, waiting lists for dermatology referrals are often long sometimes stretching from several weeks to a few months. This delay can be particularly frustrating if you’re dealing with a persistent skin issue that’s affecting your quality of life, confidence, or causing discomfort. And if your condition isn’t deemed urgent by NHS criteria, it may take even longer to be seen.
This is where private dermatology comes in. It offers a faster, more flexible alternative for patients who don’t want to wait, need a second opinion, or prefer more control over their care.
When you choose to go private, you can typically access:
- Same-week or even same-day appointments – Say goodbye to long referral queues. Many private clinics offer flexible scheduling and can see you in a matter of days.
- Immediate access to tests and procedures – Need a mole biopsy, allergy test, or patch testing? These are often available straight away, without waiting for additional referrals.
- Longer, more in-depth consultations – Unlike standard NHS slots that may be time-limited, private appointments allow for detailed discussions about your symptoms, medical history, and treatment preferences.
- Continuity of care with your chosen specialist – You get to choose who treats you and continue seeing the same consultant for follow-ups, which helps build trust and consistency.
- More control over location and timing – You can often select from multiple clinic locations and appointment times that fit your schedule, including evenings or weekends.
- Access to the latest treatments – Private dermatologists may offer advanced or cosmetic procedures not routinely available on the NHS, such as laser treatments or specialist skincare advice.
These benefits make private care especially appealing if your condition is impacting your daily life or if you simply want peace of mind that you’ll be seen quickly and thoroughly.
But, of course, these advantages can come at a price. Private consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments are often charged individually, and costs can add up quickly. That’s why having the right private medical insurance can make all the difference.
Before you book, it’s worth understanding exactly what your policy covers and what steps you need to take to make sure you’re reimbursed or billed correctly.
Does UK Private Medical Insurance Cover Dermatology?
In most cases, yes UK private medical insurance does cover dermatology. But it’s not as simple as booking an appointment and sending the bill to your insurer. There are often specific conditions that must be met for coverage to apply, and understanding these can save you time, stress, and unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Most private medical insurers will cover dermatology consultations, investigations, and treatments, but only when the condition is classed as medically necessary. That means the dermatologist’s care must be addressing a health concern that affects your physical wellbeing or has the potential to become more serious if left untreated.
Here are a few examples of what’s generally considered medically necessary and therefore likely to be covered:
- Suspected skin cancer – If you’ve noticed a mole changing shape, colour, or size, or a new lesion that won’t heal, your insurance is very likely to cover consultations, biopsies, and further treatment.
- Chronic skin conditions impacting quality of life – Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, severe acne, or rosacea may be covered, especially if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or causing discomfort, pain, or emotional distress.
- Rashes, infections, or allergic reactions – Any skin concern that causes ongoing inflammation, pain, or signs of infection may also qualify for coverage.
- Unexplained skin symptoms – If you have an undiagnosed rash, lump, or pigmentation change, your insurer may approve initial investigations such as patch testing, blood work, or biopsies.
- Follow-up care and treatment plans – Ongoing management of a diagnosed condition (e.g., prescription medications, review appointments) is sometimes covered, depending on the policy.
However, there are certain dermatological treatments that insurers typically exclude from cover. These usually fall under the category of cosmetic or elective procedures treatments that are not medically necessary but are chosen for aesthetic reasons.
Here are some common non-covered or restricted treatments:
- Mole or skin tag removal for cosmetic purposes – If the lesion isn’t causing symptoms or isn’t suspicious, removal may not be covered.
- Treatment for acne scarring – While active acne might be covered, laser treatments or peels to improve the appearance of scars usually aren’t.
- Anti-ageing treatments – Procedures like Botox, dermal fillers, or cosmetic resurfacing are not covered.
- Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) treatments – Some policies cover it if symptoms are severe, but others class it as cosmetic and exclude Botox or surgery.
Keep in mind that coverage can vary significantly between insurance providers and even between different policy tiers within the same company. That’s why it’s essential to read the fine print and check your specific terms before going ahead with any private dermatology appointment.
In the next section, I’ll break down exactly what to look for in your policy and the steps to take to make sure your treatment is covered.
What Treatments Are Commonly Covered?
Most UK private medical insurance policies do provide cover for dermatology when the condition is classed as medically necessary. This means you’re likely to be covered for both initial consultations and any required follow-up care for a range of health-related skin issues.
Here are some of the most commonly covered conditions and treatments:
- Eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea – These long-term inflammatory skin conditions often require prescription medication, specialist creams, or ongoing review. If symptoms are moderate to severe or affecting your daily life, insurance typically covers consultations and treatment.
- Suspicious moles or skin cancers – If your GP or you have noticed a mole that’s changed in appearance or a lesion that won’t heal, your insurer is very likely to approve specialist assessment, biopsies, and any necessary treatment.
- Severe acne – When acne is painful, widespread, or causing scarring, it’s usually considered medically necessary. Treatments such as prescription creams, antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and even isotretinoin (Roaccutane) may be covered.
- Chronic urticaria (hives) – Persistent or recurring hives that don’t respond to basic over-the-counter treatment can qualify for specialist care under most insurance plans.
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) – If sweating is significantly affecting your daily life, some insurance policies will cover treatments, though approval may depend on severity and past treatment history.
In addition to covering consultations and condition-specific care, diagnostic procedures are often included as well. These may involve:
- Skin biopsies to investigate rashes, lumps, or suspicious growths
- Blood tests to check for allergies, autoimmune conditions, or infections
- Dermatoscopic exams for a closer, non-invasive analysis of moles or pigmented skin areas
Overall, if the condition is impacting your health or quality of life, there’s a good chance your insurer will cover it provided you follow the proper authorisation steps.
Major UK Insurers That Commonly Cover Dermatology
If you’re considering private dermatology care, the good news is that most major UK health insurance providers do offer some level of cover for dermatology services as long as the condition is deemed medically necessary and your policy includes outpatient care.
Here are some of the most well-known insurers in the UK that typically reimburse dermatology consultations, investigations, and treatment:
- Bupa – One of the largest private health insurance providers in the UK, Bupa offers coverage for a wide range of skin conditions, provided your plan includes outpatient services and you meet any referral requirements.
- AXA Health – AXA covers dermatology under most of its comprehensive plans, particularly when a GP has referred you and the condition is not cosmetic.
- Aviva – Aviva’s health insurance policies often cover consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment for ongoing skin problems like eczema or acne, with pre-authorisation in some cases.
- VitalityHealth – Known for its wellness-focused policies, Vitality includes dermatology in many plans, though some levels of cover may require an excess payment or come with annual limits.
- WPA (Western Provident Association) – WPA offers flexible health plans that can include dermatology, often with clear guidance on what’s considered cosmetic versus medically necessary.
- Cigna – Though more commonly used for international health cover, Cigna UK offers policies that include dermatology, especially for chronic or serious conditions.
It’s important to remember that not all policies are created equal, even within the same company. Some plans may:
- Limit the number of outpatient consultations per year
- Require a GP referral before booking a specialist
- Exclude certain types of treatment (e.g., cosmetic mole removal)
- Ask you to pay an excess or percentage of the cost
That’s why it’s always best to check the exact terms and conditions of your policy before scheduling a private dermatology appointment. Contact your insurer directly, or log into your online member portal, to confirm what’s included and whether you need pre-authorisation for your visit.
Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer Before Booking
Before you go ahead and book a private dermatology appointment, it’s always a good idea to speak directly with your insurance provider. Even if your condition seems clearly medical and you’ve got a decent policy, there can still be exclusions, limits, or steps you need to take in advance to ensure coverage.
To avoid unexpected bills or claim rejections, make sure to ask the following key questions:
- Is dermatology covered on my policy?
Start with the basics. Not all plans include outpatient dermatology, and some may only cover hospital-based care. Confirm that your specific policy allows for private dermatology consultations and treatment. - Do I need a GP referral?
Many insurance providers require a referral from your NHS or private GP before you can access specialist care. Without one, they may deny the claim even if the treatment itself would be covered. Always ask whether this is a condition of your policy. - Are specific clinics or consultants approved?
Insurers often have networks of recognised or approved specialists and hospitals. If you see someone outside this list, your coverage might be reduced or not apply at all. Ask for a list of in-network dermatologists or check online through your insurer’s provider directory. - Will I need pre-authorisation before attending?
Some policies require formal approval before you go to your appointment, especially for investigations or treatments. Others may only need authorisation after a consultation has taken place. Double-check what’s needed and when. - Are diagnostic procedures covered?
Biopsies, patch tests, blood tests, or dermatoscopic exams may or may not be automatically included with your consultation. Clarify whether these are billed separately, and whether your insurer will cover them as part of the treatment process. - Is there a yearly allowance or cost cap for dermatology?
Some policies set annual limits for outpatient care including dermatology. You’ll want to know if there’s a cap on the number of appointments, tests, or treatment costs per policy year, and whether you’ve already used part of your allowance.
Once you’ve asked these questions, make sure to take detailed notes during the call, including the name of the person you spoke to, the date, and a summary of what they confirmed. If possible, ask them to send the key points in writing via email or a secure message through your online insurance portal.
This step can make all the difference later on, especially if there’s any dispute about what was covered.
What If My Insurance Doesn’t Cover It?
If your insurance policy doesn’t include dermatology or if the issue you’re seeking help for is classed as cosmetic rather than medical you can still choose to see a private dermatologist. In this case, you’ll simply need to pay for the treatment yourself, often referred to as self-pay.
While this may sound daunting at first, it’s actually a common route for many patients in the UK. And thanks to transparent pricing and flexible options offered by many private clinics, it’s entirely possible to manage your costs while still accessing high-quality care.
Here’s what to expect in terms of typical pricing:
- Initial consultation fees – These usually range from £200 to £350, depending on the clinic, the consultant’s level of experience, and your location (London clinics tend to be at the higher end). This consultation typically includes a full skin assessment, discussion of your medical history, and personalised treatment advice.
- Diagnostic extras – If your dermatologist recommends further tests such as a skin biopsy, dermatoscopy, blood work, or allergy testing these will usually incur additional charges. Prices for these can vary but are often clearly listed on clinic websites or available upon request.
- Follow-up appointments – These are generally less expensive than the initial consultation, often ranging from £120 to £250, depending on the time required and complexity of the review.
- Treatment costs – If you go ahead with treatment (such as cryotherapy, minor surgery, or prescription creams), these will be priced separately. Many clinics will give you a written breakdown of costs before you proceed, so there are no surprises.
Direct Billing vs Reimbursement
When it comes to covering the cost of dermatology treatment, clinics typically follow one of two approaches: direct billing or reimbursement.
With direct billing, the clinic handles the paperwork and invoices your insurer directly. This means you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket at the time of your appointment, as long as the treatment is covered by your plan. It’s a convenient option that reduces both upfront costs and admin hassle.
On the other hand, some clinics operate on a reimbursement basis. In this case, you’ll need to pay for the consultation or procedure yourself, then claim the amount back from your insurance provider. This usually involves submitting a medical report, a detailed receipt, and sometimes filling out additional forms. The reimbursement process can take days or even weeks, depending on your insurer’s policies.
Understanding whether a clinic offers direct billing or requires reimbursement can help you avoid surprises and unnecessary stress especially if you’re budgeting for ongoing care.
Final Thought: Navigating Private Dermatology with Confidence
Private dermatology offers speed, expertise, and peace of mind but it’s important to know how your insurance works before you book.
You can get in touch with us to book a consultation with one of our expert dermatologists in London. Our team is happy to help you navigate insurance queries and ensure you get the care you need on your terms.
References
- Eedy, D. (2015) Dermatology: a specialty in crisis. Clinical Medicine (London), 15(6), pp. 540–544. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4953248/
- Shmueli, L. et al. (2025) ‘Utilization of second medical opinions as a function of payment tracks’, BMC Health Services Research, 25, p. X. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11866603/
- Wang, R.H. and Barbieri, J. (2020) ‘Where are we now and what are the barriers to adoption?’, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 82(1), pp. 125–133. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7302990/
- readore, A. et al. (2021) ‘Insurance acceptance, appointment wait time, and access to dermatologists’, JAMA Dermatology, 157(5), pp. 545–552. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.5863. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2774798
- Borsa, A. et al. (2023) ‘Evaluating trends in private equity ownership and impacts in dermatology settings’, BMJ, 382, p. 075244. Available at: https://www.bmj.com/content/382/bmj-2023-075244