Characterization of Biopsies by Dermatologists and Nonphysician Providers in the Medicare Population: A Rapidly Changing Landscape.

BACKGROUND

Previous studies show that nonphysician providers may require a higher number of biopsies to identify skin malignancies than dermatologists. Therefore, understanding the trends behind the types of providers performing biopsies may help analyze their impact on this vulnerable population.

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study analyzes changes in nationwide, regional, and state-level data on the number and proportion of biopsies performed by dermatologists compared with nonphysician providers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Biopsy cases were isolated in the Medicare database from 2012 to 2018 using the HCPCS codes 11,100 and 11,101. Cases were limited to biopsies performed by a dermatologist, nurse practitioner (NP), or physician assistant (PA).

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2018, national biopsy rates per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries for dermatologists decreased by 6%, whereas those for NPs and PAs increased by 97% and 82%, respectively. Each state showed variation in both the proportion of biopsies by provider type and the net change in biopsies rates over time. All states saw increases in the number of biopsies per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries by nonphysician providers.

CONCLUSION

As the number of Medicare beneficiaries continues to grow, nonphysician providers are performing an increasing proportion of biopsies, with specific states and regions being affected more than others.