Dermatologists cater to a wide variety of issues such as acne or perhaps implementing the latest anti-aging technology. Because of this, choosing a dermatologist can be quite a difficult task for a patient.
Given that dermatologists around the world are inherently different in approach and behavior, it’s important to find one that works best for you and that can work to your specific needs and wants. In order to find the best dermatologist for you, use these five guidelines below.
Credentials
Patients must take a deeper look into dermatologists and Dermatology Nurse Practitioners to find out more about them. For example, medical professionals typically have years of extra study and have passed arduous exams.
Another important note to remember is that a doctor or practitioner can be “board certified,” but that doesn’t mean the certification is in dermatology. Johanna Fangmeyer, owner and founder of Hagerstown Derm, is a Board-Certified Dermatology Nurse Practitioner by Dermatology Nurses Association, and has trained alongside some of the best Dermatologists for nearly 20 years.
Attention to Time and Detail
Rather than looking at the clock and attempting to rush an appointment, a high-level dermatologist will focus on a patient with attention to detail and that specific patient’s chart, story and questions.
“Your dermatologist should take the time to explain things, address your concerns, and explain treatment plans, as well as any tests you may have to undergo,” says David Bank, MD, president of the New York State Society for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.
If a dermatologist is rushing through your appointment, it’s likely time to look for a new one.
Avoid a Sales Pitch
When finding the right dermatologist, you want to make sure you avoid one that is simply looking to sell a product or service. For example, a dermatologist shouldn’t be pushing to sell you a product or treatment that doesn’t specifically address your needs.
“If you feel that a dermatologist is selling you, he or she may be more interested in your money than in helping you,” says Dr. Bank.
A Wide Variety of Samples
A sign of a good dermatologist may be an office that has a wide variety of sample products for patients to test, as it shows that the doctor wants patients to find the best product and not just any product. It also shows that the dermatologist is aware that different patients have different budgets and that different options are necessary.
“If your dermatologist wants you to try a product to make sure it’s right for you before you commit to buying a prescription, it’s a great sign,” says Bank.
Open After-Hours
In finding the right dermatologist, it’s important that you find one that is available to reach during evenings or on the weekends in case of emergency.
“A good dermatologist will have on-call service for emergencies after hours,” says Bank.
In some cases, a dermatologist will have an answering machine that relays messages or an emergency contact number, but it’s important to find a doctor that can be reached in times of need.