Faces of Recognition

Redefining Access. Restoring Dignity.

The SDPA lead Coalition, Faces of Recognition is a growing national alliance of dermatology providers, patient advocacy organizations, and allied stakeholders united around a powerful mission: to correct the harmful misclassification of certain dermatologic and autoimmune conditions as merely “cosmetic.” 

These mischaracterizations have led to widespread coverage denials—blocking patients from accessing FDA-approved, medically necessary treatments for conditions like vitiligo, alopecia areata, and others that deeply impact quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being. 

A Law Worth Changing

Under current law Section 1927(d)(2) of the Social Security Act, states may exclude treatments they deem “cosmetic” from Medicaid coverage. As a result, individuals living with serious skin conditions are often denied coverage—despite the availability of effective therapies and the clear medical, psychological, and social toll of these diseases. 

Why Reclassification Matters 

Scientific evidence is clear: These are not cosmetic conditions. 
Accurate classification can drive: 

  • Improved access to life-changing treatment 
  • Equitable insurance coverage 
  • Increased research funding 
  • Stronger policy visibility and action 

It's time for skin stakeholders to demand recognition and reform. 

Federal and State Advocacy

Federal Reform

SDPA is advocating to amend the Social Security Act to prohibit state Medicaid programs from excluding FDA-approved drugs that treat dermatologic, autoimmune, or underlying medical conditions.

State-Level Action

SDPA is working directly with State Medicaid Directors to push for proper classification and coverage of these conditions within individual state Medicaid formularies.

Join Us

Members of the coalition have the opportunity to participate in: 

  • Quarterly and ad hoc strategy meetings 
  • Coordinated state-based advocacy campaigns 
  • Federal legislative outreach and reform planning 

Is your organization committed to restoring dignity and access to care for those impacted by skin conditions? 

SDPA invites provider groups, advocacy organizations, medical societies, and allies to join the Faces of Recognition Coalition and be part of a unified push for systemic change. 

To learn more or get involved, contact: klozach@dermpa.org