ACCUTANE, ACCESS, AND AHCCCS: A MEDICAID MAZE TO CLEARER SKIN

Abstract

Access to isotretinoin, a highly effective treatment for severe acne, is shaped not only by clinical need but also by healthcare policy. This paper examines how Arizona's Medicaid system and health insurance exchange regulations affect access to isotretinoin, particularly for low-income and rural populations. Previous studies highlight the clinical effectiveness of isotretinoin but pay less attention to the policy barriers that prevent timely treatment. This research addresses that gap by analyzing Medicaid policy documents, iPLEDGE requirements, and coverage tiers that delay or block access to care. Findings reveal that prior authorization, geographic disparities in provider access, and administrative burdens disproportionately impact underserved communities, often worsening both dermatological and psychological outcomes. By identifying these barriers, this paper argues for targeted policy reforms that streamline access and reduce health inequalities, improving quality of life for affected individuals and promoting more equitable healthcare delivery in Arizona.