Disparities in access for melanoma screening by region, specialty, and insurance: A cross-sectional audit study

BACKGROUND: Early detection of melanoma is critical for positive outcomes. However, access for the diagnosis of melanoma remains problematic for segments of the general population. OBJECTIVE: To compare the rates of dermatology and family medicine practitioner acceptances for a public insurance (Medicaid) versus private insurance (Anthem Blue Cross) and clinic wait times for an appointment for a changing pigmented skin lesion concerning melanoma in rural and urban regions in California. METHODS: Cross-sectional audit study between June 2017 and March 2019; scripted phone calls were made to dermatology and family medicine practices (FMPs). RESULTS: Family medicine and dermatology practices in both regions had significantly decreased acceptance of Medicaid. Dermatology practices had 11.3% to 13.0% Medicaid acceptance rates that were less than FMP rates of 28% to 36%. In both regions, FMP wait times were 2.4- to 3.2-fold longer for public versus private insurance; there were little differences in wait times for the 2 insurance types in dermatology practices, in both regions. LIMITATIONS: Assessment of only 2 regions in the state of California. CONCLUSION: Delays at FMPs and insurance types limit access to melanoma screening in California for underserved segments of the general population, which has implications for melanoma outcomes and health policy.