Dermatology is the branch of medicine focused on diseases of the skin, hair and nails. The field is highly diverse and offers both medical and cosmetic opportunities, making it a popular choice for those considering a career in medicine. In fact, according to the recent Medscape Lifestyle, Happiness & Burnout Report, dermatology ranks first for happiness among all specialties.
There are many steps to becoming a dermatologist, beginning with earning a four-year bachelor’s degree in a pre-med or science program. Students should take courses that build a strong foundation in science, such as biology, chemistry, physics and health sciences. Students should also consider pursuing pre-medical extracurricular activities and shadowing a dermatologist to gain experience and insight into the career.
After graduating with a medical degree, dermatologists must complete a residency to learn the necessary skills to practice their specialty. Residencies last from three to eight years and are competitive. Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) students can apply for dermatology residencies through the National Resident Matching Program, which matches incoming doctors with available positions at approved healthcare facilities across the country.
During a residency, dermatologists work alongside other physicians to see patients and get hands-on training in treating conditions such as acne, rosacea, psoriasis and skin cancer. They must also be able to identify the warning signs of many illnesses, including prediabetes, which often presents itself with changes in the skin. For example, a rash called acanthosis nigricans can be a sign of prediabetes that can lead to diabetes if not treated early.삼성동피부과
Dermatologists must also have excellent problem-solving abilities to develop effective treatments and diagnose complicated cases. Additionally, a strong knowledge of human anatomy is important because the skin, hair and nails are vital parts of the body. Finally, they need to have strong organizational and record-keeping skills as well as a good eye for detail to accurately assess patients’ symptoms and perform procedures such as biopsies.
In addition to these skills, dermatologists should enjoy helping their patients look their best and feel comfortable communicating with them.삼성역피부과 Patients will visit their dermatologists for a wide variety of reasons, from routine screenings to the treatment of chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema to a host of aesthetic procedures like laser hair removal and Botox injections.
Patients should prepare for their appointment by removing nail polish, wearing loose-fitting clothing and bringing a list of any products they use on a regular basis, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements, herbs, soaps, lotions and sunscreens. They should also bring a mirror so they can clearly see themselves from all angles during the exam. Lastly, patients should bring copies of any test results or images that were ordered by other providers outside of the dermatologist’s healthcare network. This will allow the doctor to get a full picture of the patient’s health and determine the best course of action going forward.