Elkhorn Dermatology direct pay FAQs

Elkhorn Dermatology is a direct-pay clinic because your skin deserves time, expertise, and thoughtful care without insurance-driven limitations.

Elkhorn Dermatology uses a direct pay model

A different model of dermatologic care

At Elkhorn Dermatology, we intentionally operate as a direct-pay dermatology clinic. This means we do not bill insurance and instead, focus entirely on delivering high-quality, patient-centered dermatologic care.

By removing insurance constraints, we are able to:

  • Spend meaningful, unrushed time with each patient
  • Provide transparent, predictable pricing
  • Address complex and multiple concerns in a single visit
  • Use advanced diagnostic tools and imaging when clinically appropriate
  • Offer flexible scheduling, including out-of-business-hours appointments

This model allows us to practice dermatology the way it was meant to be practiced: thoughtful, thorough, and focused on long-term skin health.

What is a direct pay model?

A direct pay model is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that allows individuals to pay directly for services without involving insurance companies. By eliminating insurance restrictions and administrative barriers, direct pay dermatology supports a stronger patient–provider relationship and enables care decisions to be based solely on medical need. This model offers clear, upfront pricing and greater transparency, giving patients a full understanding of the cost of their dermatologic care while ensuring personalized, high-quality treatment.

What does direct pay mean for patients?

  • You pay directly for your visit and any services performed
  • Costs are discussed openly and clearly
  • Payment is due at the time of service
  • No suprised bills weeks later
  • No insurance approvals, denials, or delays

How does pricing in a direct pay model compare to traditional insurance?

Our pricing is designed to be reasonable and competitive with what patients might expect to pay out-of-pocket with traditional insurance. This includes considerations for typical insurance copays, deductibles, and coinsurance, ensuring our services offer value.

Insurance and Payment Methods

Does Elkhorn Dermatology accept insurance?

While we do not have direct contracts with insurance companies, we can provide a superbill upon request that you may submit to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement. Please note that superbills are not available for Medicare or Medicaid patients.

Good Faith Estimate for charges

You will receive a Good Faith Estimate outlining the expected charges for medical services, including diagnostic tests and any other services that may be reasonably anticipated during your care.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept cash, checks, credit/debit cards, as well as Health Savings (HSA) and Flex Spending (FSA) accounts for non-cosmetic services. We also offer Cherry financing for eligible services.

Do you bill insurance for biopsies?

No. The biopsy procedure itself is paid directly to Elkhorn Dermatology.

What services may be covered by insurance?

Depending on your individual insurance plan, you may be able to use insurance for:

  • Pathology services if a biopsy is performed (typically billed separately by the laboratory)
  • Some laboratory testing, which may be billed separately by testing facility

How are pathology and lab services billed at Elkhorn Dermatology?

Pathology and laboratory services are billed separately from office visits and procedures. We offer the following billing options to accommodate your preferences:

  • Direct Insurance Billing by the Laboratory: When applicable, the pathology laboratory may bill your insurance provider directly for lab services, helping streamline the process for you.

  • Direct Payment Through Elkhorn Dermatology: If you prefer not to use insurance, or if insurance is not applicable, you may choose to pay Elkhorn Dermatology directly. In this case, we coordinate payment with the laboratory on your behalf.

Can I use my insurance for medications prescribed by Elkhorn Dermatology?

Yes. Although Elkhorn Dermatology is a direct-pay practice and does not participate with insurance for office visits or services, you may use your insurance coverage for medications prescribed by our providers, subject to your pharmacy and insurance plan benefits.

How are specialized diagnostic tests billed?

Fees for specialized diagnostic tests, including comprehensive gut testing, skin patch testing, and hormonal assessments, are billed separately from office visits and other medical services. These tests are typically not covered by insurance.

When recommended, these assessments are used to support a thorough evaluation of your individual health needs and to help guide personalized, evidence-based treatment planning. All testing recommendations, associated costs, and options will be reviewed with you in advance so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Can I submit my visit to insurance for reimbursement?

Yes. Upon request, we can provide a claim document (superbill) that you may submit to your insurance carrier. Please note:

  • Elkhorn Dermatology does not submit claims on your behalf
  • Submission of a claim does not guarantee reimbursement
  • Reimbursement depends entirely on your insurance plan

Will you help me understand what insurance might cover?

We are happy to explain our direct-pay model and review the documentation we can provide, such as a superbill when applicable. Because insurance coverage and reimbursement vary by plan, we recommend contacting your insurance carrier directly for specific questions regarding benefits, coverage, and reimbursement.

Financing Options

Are financing options available for treatments?

Yes. At Elkhorn Dermatology, we offer flexible financing options to help make dermatologic and cosmetic treatments more accessible. We partner with Cherry Payment Plans to provide convenient payment plans and promotional financing options that fit a variety of budgets. This allows patients to plan their care with confidence while receiving high-quality dermatology services.

Packages & Discounts

Do you offer any packages or discounts?

Yes. We offer select treatment packages and add-on services designed to provide added value and flexibility for our patients. These options allow patients to access comprehensive care in a convenient and cost-effective way. All packages are thoughtfully structured based on clinical appropriateness and individual goals. Availability, inclusions, and pricing are reviewed with you in advance to ensure transparency and to help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

Card on File Policy

What is the "Card on File" policy at Elkhorn Dermatology?

It is mandatory for all patients to provide a valid form of payment (Card on File) to cover any residual costs after insurance adjudication, ensuring smoother financial transactions and billing.

Is my payment information secure?

Absolutely, all payment information is encrypted and stored securely online. No financial details, including credit card numbers, are accessible to our staff or held physically at our office. For more detailed questions or assistance with our financial policies, please contact Elkhorn Dermatology directly.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Discover more about Elkhorn Dermatology and our experienced providers, and learn why families throughout our community trust us for personalized, high-quality dermatologic care.

Office Hours

Monday – Friday:

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM