Medicare to Require Prior Authorization for Some Cosmetic Procedures in 10 States

Some Democratic lawmakers and medical practices say the program will add unnecessary burden to doctors and Medicare services.

Starting in December, Medicare will begin requiring prior authorization for certain cosmetic procedures when performed in ambulatory surgical centers. Dreamstime/TCA

Medicare patients who want to get Botox or other cosmetic procedures in some states will need to seek prior approval from the federal government starting Dec. 15.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will launch its five-year prior authorization demonstration project for select Ambulatory Surgical Center services in 10 states: New York, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Ohio, Arizona, Texas, Florida, and California.