What do you mean by usable? I myself use a Canon EF 180 macro lens. To make macros with the 55-200, you have to keep a certain distance, then it might be possible to make macros with this lens. But usable is something different for everyone. I wouldn't take this lens for macro. This is a very good travel lens.

This lens is rather unsuitable for macro photography. Pictures that have the designation macro shot are preferably taken with a macro lens.