Medicare AdvantageCoverageLow impact
MA11.109a, Procedures for the Treatment of Acne
Independence Blue Cross·NJ · Dermatology, General Practice, Family Medicine +1 more·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Independence Blue Cross has reissued MA11.109a to reaffirm that laser therapy, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, and chemosurgery (chemical peels) for treating active acne vulgaris remain non-covered as experimental/investigational procedures under Medicare Advantage plans. These same procedures for acne scarring remain non-covered as cosmetic services. This is a reaffirmation of the Company's continuing position with no substantive changes to coverage criteria.
Action Required
No immediate action required. This is a reissue reaffirming existing policy. Verify that billing system rules remain configured to deny claims for CPT codes 15788, 15789, 15792, 15793, 17110, 17111, 17340, and 17360 when billed with acne-related ICD-10 diagnosis codes (L70.x, L73.0) for Independence Blue Cross Medicare Advantage members. Ensure denial reason codes reference 'experimental/investigational' for active acne treatment and 'cosmetic exclusion' for acne scarring. No policy changes require workflow modifications.