CommercialAdministrativeLow impact
11.08.29e, Procedures for the Treatment of Acne
Independence Blue Cross·Dermatology, Plastic Surgery·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
This is a reissue of Independence Blue Cross policy 11.08.29e with no substantive changes to coverage. The policy continues to classify laser therapy, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, and chemosurgery (including chemical peels) for active acne treatment as experimental/investigational and not covered, and for acne scarring as cosmetic and not covered. Billing teams should continue denying claims for these procedures under this policy.
Action Required
No immediate action required. This is a routine policy reissue with no coverage changes. Billing teams should verify that current claim denial logic in the system continues to reject CPT codes 15788, 15789, 15792, 15793, 17110, 17111, 17340, and 17360 when submitted for acne treatment (ICD-10 codes L70.0–L70.9, L73.0) on Independence Blue Cross commercial plans. Ensure denial reasons cite experimental/investigational status (active acne) or cosmetic exclusion (acne scarring). No system updates or workflow modifications are necessary.