News In Dermatology

What’s New?

New advancements in dermatology are heavily driven by artificial intelligence (AI), advanced imaging, and targeted molecular therapies. Recent breakthroughs include the FDA clearance of AI-powered diagnostic tools, the development of nanotechnologies for skin treatments, and innovative biologics for chronic skin.

Recent 2025-2026 dermatology drug approvals emphasize targeted therapies, including Delgocitinib (Anzupgo) for chronic hand eczema, Roflumilast (Zoryve) foam for psoriasis, and Nemolizumab for atopic dermatitis. Other key advancements include Prademagene zamikeracel for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and Remibrutinib (Rhapsido) for chronic spontaneous urticaria.

Major Scandals

Mohs Surgery Upcoding

• In 2023, Tennessee-based Dr. John Y. Chung and Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Center, P.C. agreed to pay $6.6 million to resolve allegations of submitting false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for Mohs micrographic surgery (skin cancer removal). The allegations included billing for procedures not performed by the doctor and improper billing for multiple procedures on the same day.

Covid-19 Relief Fraud

•  A Spokane dermatologist agreed to pay $1.4 million in 2025 to resolve allegations of fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds. 

Insurance Fraud (San Diego)

• A San Diego dermatologist was charged in 2025 with 22 counts of healthcare fraud, accused of billing for 60 to 70 patients per day for identical light therapy treatments, often using non-medical lamps.

Malpractice

•  A study of U.S. litigation against dermatologists found that male providers in private, solo practice performing elective cosmetic procedures on female patients carried the highest risk for malpractice lawsuits, often centered on poor communication and lack of informed consent. 

Upcoding

• A Florida dermatologist agreed to pay $26.1 million to settle allegations of performing medically unnecessary surgeries on Medicare patients and conducting an illegal kickback scheme with a pathology laboratory starting around 1997.

Private Equity

• In 2021, reports highlighted how private equity-backed dermatology practices, such as Pinnacle Dermatology, created high-pressure “get that money” environments, leading to allegations of missed biopsies, overbooking, and compromised patient care.