National utilization and reimbursement patterns for Mohs micrographic surgery in the ambulatory surgery setting

Abstract

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US, with certain health behaviors and demographics increasing an individual’s lifetime risk. 1 Guy G.P.J. Machlin S.R. Ekwueme D.U. Yabroff K.R. Prevalence and costs of skin cancer treatment in the U.S., 2002-2006 and 2007-2011. Am J Prev Med. 2015; 48: 183-187https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2014.08.036 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (537) Google Scholar , 2 Singer S. Tkachenko E. Yeung H. Mostaghimi A. Skin cancer and skin cancer risk behaviors among sexual and gender minority populations: A systematic review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020; 83: 511-522https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2020.02.013 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF Scopus (11) Google Scholar Many skin cancers on cosmetically and functionally sensitive sites can be treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). These procedures primarily take place in the outpatient setting with either immediate or delayed repair of the resulting defect. In prior studies, characteristics such as insurance status among patients undergoing MMS have been described but these data are limited by small sample sizes from few institutions. 3 Clarke E.L. Willenbrink T.J. Shelton M. et al. Association of Tumor Characteristics With Insurance Type Among Patients Undergoing Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer. JAMA Dermatol. 2022; 158: 919-922https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2022.1802 Crossref Scopus (0) Google Scholar The objective of this study was to assess patient demographics, spending, and reimbursement trends for MMS in hospital-owned facilities and offices using nationally representative data.