Doctors at walk-in clinics can refer patients to a dermatologist, although whether they will actually do so depends on the doctor at the clinic. This is because making a referral is entirely at the doctor’s discretion.
If you are turned down, the simplest solution is to go to a different walk-in clinic. However, the reason you probably need a referral is so your insurance coverage will pay for the visit to the dermatologist’s office as well as the services they provide. So if you have health insurance coverage, it’s worth your time to find a family doctor, or what the insurance companies call a primary care physician.
Advantages of a Primary Care Physician
There are many advantages to having a relationship with a primary care physician. First, your medical history and records are all in one place and your doctor can easily transmit that information to a dermatologist. A walk-in clinic won’t be able to do that, so you’ll have to complete long forms outlining your medical history, preexisting conditions, medications you take and any other information required to get the referral.
Another benefit of working with a family doctor is you’ll be able to choose a medical professional in your insurance plan’s coverage network. This maximizes your benefits while keeping your co-pay as low as possible.
Understanding Your Health Insurance Policy
While we’re on the subject of health coverage, you’ll want to go over your policy details to determine the insurance plan’s requirements for referrals. Some plans may accept a referral from a doctor at a walk-in clinic, but will expect you to follow up with documentation from your regular doctor, if you have one.
When to Seek Immediate Dermatological Care
Sometimes a family physician may not be available or perhaps you notice a troubling skin condition while travelling far from home. If the situation is urgent or appears life threatening, the nearest emergency room should be your first destination.
Examples of Urgent Skin Conditions:
- A rapidly spreading skin rash accompanied by fever
- A fast-growing mole or other growth that changes shape and color
- Viral or bacterial skin infections accompanied by increasing pain
- Adverse drug reactions
These are examples of urgent medical conditions that warrant examination by a board-certified dermatologist. This is by no means a comprehensive list.
The Prevalence and Importance of Dermatological Care
Skin diseases are common in the general population. About 19 percent to 27 percent require medical treatment, with acne and eczema being the most common skin conditions. Melanoma, or skin cancer, can be life threatening. This is why early detection and treatment can save your life. If you notice discoloration on your skin, including spots, blotches or blemishes, you should get it checked out by a dermatologist.
Accessing Dermatological Services Without Delays
With or without a referral, you won’t need to wait to see a board-certified dermatologist at Walk-in Dermatology. Patients in the New York metropolitan area and surrounding region can see a licensed dermatologist seven days a week, either by coming directly to the office or scheduling a virtual consultation.
With a Video Visit you can see a dermatologist with an online video link and you won’t need to leave the house. No delays. This telemedicine service is especially useful in a time of social distancing.
EpicMD Telemedicine Demo - Virtual Healthcare When and Where You Need It!
Walk-in Dermatology also accepts most types of health insurance. You can even fill out a new patient form and submit it entirely online. Now there’s no more waiting and worrying for days or even weeks to see a dermatologist.
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