Improving dermatology providers' awareness and communication of the costs of dermatologic care might enhance medical decision-making, improve adherence and outcomes, and potentially reduce overall health care expenditures, according to a recent study. Researchers systematically developed surveys and distributed them to 3 study populations: dermatology providers, residents, and patients. They found:

• Response rates were over 95% in all 3 populations.
• Dermatology providers and residents consistently underestimated the costs of commonly recommended dermatologic medications but accurately predicted the cost of common dermatologic procedures.
• Dermatology patients preferred to know the cost of procedures and medications, even when covered by insurance.
• In this population, the costs of dermatologic medications frequently interfered with patients' ability to properly adhere to prescribed regimens.