Terms like “skin specialist” or “dermatology specialist” don’t necessarily mean someone has extensive training in the field or even that they hold a Doctor of Medicine (MD). To ensure you’re getting the best care, read more about the differences between skincare provider qualifications.
What Does It Mean to Be a Board-Certified Dermatologist?
Seeing a board-certified dermatologist means you benefit from your doctor’s rigorous and ongoing training, which enables providers to diagnose and treat more than 3,000 skin, hair, and nail conditions, as well as cosmetic concerns.
To be a board-certified dermatologist, your provider must:
- Complete four years of medical school.
- Finish a year-long accredited internship in medicine, pediatrics or surgery.
- Work alongside experienced, board-certified dermatologists to complete 12,000 to 16,000 patient treatment hours during a dermatology residency at an accredited program.
- Pass a challenging exam to become certified by the American Board of Dermatology, the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology, or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
- Maintain a commitment to lifelong learning by completing 25 hours of continuing education each year.
Board-Certified Dermatologist vs. Dermatology Specialist
While you might expect anyone who bills themselves as a dermatologist to be certified by a dermatology board, this isn’t always the case. Physicians with backgrounds in different fields of medicine can also open dermatology practices. Additionally, many skin specialists are not MDs.
A nurse practitioner or physician assistant who works primarily with skin issues can say they’re a dermatology specialist – and many are good providers for certain conditions. However, their scope of practice is narrower than a board-certified dermatologist. As a result, they’re less likely to be familiar with uncommon conditions and might not be familiar with the most advanced or effective treatments.
Visit NYC Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Dina Strachan, MD
To ensure you get the most comprehensive care for your skin, hair, or nail condition, visit a highly skilled board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Strachan at Aglow Dermatology. Her extensive experience in medical and cosmetic dermatology makes her an expert in treating patients with a wide range of needs.
Additionally, Dr. Strachan is an internationally recognized expert in acne treatment, hair loss, chemical peels, and skin of color. If you’re seeking the highest quality dermatological care, call 212-627-1004 to book an appointment at her New York, NY practice.
See Dr. Strachan in living color on our YouTube channel anytime by clicking here.
