Different Fields of Dermatology and What to Look For in a Dermatologist

Dermatology is a discipline that encompasses different fields. In general, it deals with the skin and any conditions related to it. Every dermatologist will have to undergo the basic training before they can specialize. Those that don’t specialize in any of the different fields are called general dermatologists. A doctor that is looking to specialize can choose between the four branches of dermatology. In this article, we’re going to discuss the areas of specialization in detail.

Dermatopathology

With this specialty, there is a combination of dermatology and pathology.  It can be defined as the study of skin disease using hair or skin as a sample. The samples are often scrutinized under a microscope in a laboratory. Such NYC Dermatologists might not deal with patients directly as their work will mostly be studying diseases.

Pediatric Dermatology

If your child suffers from a disease that affects the nails, hair, or skin, it is recommended that you’re seeing a pediatric dermatologist. Such a dermatologist will specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions that affect children and infants.

Cosmetic Dermatology

The purpose of cosmetic dermatology is to improve the appearance of the skin. The treatment is not necessarily a requirement in improving the health condition of a person hence the name. Most people that seek the treatment do so for aesthetic reasons. There are dermatologists that have exclusively specialized in cosmetic dermatology. You will still want to make sure that the dermatologist is board-certified even if it is a cosmetic procedure.

Mohs Surgery

When you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, there is a high chance that you’ll be referred to a Mohs surgeon for treatment. The surgery is done specifically to treat skin cancer. There are surgeons that will decide to continue with their education in order to receive advanced training in Mohs surgery.

Having looked at the different types of fields in dermatology, you could be wondering about how to go about the process of finding the right dermatologist. You’ll still want to do the research on the provider as it is your health on the line. There are some key qualities that you should be looking for in a dermatologist and we’re going to highlight some of them.

Credentials

The report card of the dermatologist will matter a great deal in the selection process. A doctor that is armed with a medical degree can start practicing but it takes additional years of study and a vigorous training process for one to be a good dermatologist. The first thing you’ll want to make sure of is that the doctor is certified by the American Board of Dermatology. Be wary of doctors that claim to be dermatologists yet they’re general practitioners.

No Rushed Appointments

A great dermatologist will not look at their wrist when providing treatment.  For starters, they should take time with the diagnosis. You’ll also need an explanation of the condition that you’re suffering from. A practitioner that rushes you through the appointment might not have your best interest at heart. You need to get someone that not only values you as a patient but as a client since you’ll be paying for services that they provide.

After Hour Care

Working with a dermatologist that provides after hour care is often seen as ideal, especially when you have kids. You know there is someone that you can call in case of an emergency. Getting such a dermatologist will require that you’re doing due diligence with the research process.

No Sales Pitch

You’re going to the doctor’s office and the last thing you’d want to experience is someone trying to pitch to you a treatment option that you don’t need. The work of the dermatologist is to provide treatment. You should feel comfortable whenever you visit their offices. You don’t want to be working with a dermatologist that is more interested in the money than treating you.

Insurance

You’d want to limit the amount you pay out of pocket for treatment. That is why it is usually recommended that you’re looking for a provider listed in your insurance plan. There are also dermatologists that will offer flexible payment plans.

Gender

It is important that you’re feeling comfortable during treatment. Sometimes the gender of the doctor could play a big role in the success of the treatment. Consider the gender that you’re comfortable working with. There is no shortage of qualified and experienced dermatologists regardless of the gender you decide to work with.