Dermatology: A Specialty Poised for Growth

Of all the things one can say about the specialty of dermatology, perhaps the least controversial is that we are a vital and evolving specialty. For the first time in many years, the exhibit hall at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology showcased multiple new chemical entities approved for dermatologic indications, and further developments are anticipated. The industry landscape has clearly changed, and this hopefully signals a reinvigoration of dermatology R&D.

There have also been notable advancements in the realm of devices, with many new systems recently coming to market and others on the way. These devices range from in-office scanners for the diagnosis of melanoma to novel devices for aesthetic interventions. In this issue, we offer an in-depth look at some of the latest aesthetic technologies and explore their potential roles in the dermatology practice. Turn to page 26 for the start of coverage.

The wide range of recent developments within dermatology highlights the breadth of our specialty, whose practitioners run the gamut from those in entirely medical practice to those almost exclusively cosmetic. Almost, because the aesthetic art of cosmetic dermatology cannot ever be excised from the medical knowledge of the practitioner.

This is truly an exciting time to practice dermatology, and opportunities abound. Patient demand for medical dermatology services generally runs high. And economic indicators suggest that we could be primed for growth in elective procedures and cosmetic interventions. Recent data from the ASAPS show that the cosmetic surgery market was essentially flat from 2010 to 2011—not bad given the economy. It seems that an uptick in demand is due.

For many practices, the recent significant growth in demand for both medical and cosmetic services has led to the recruitment of mid-level providers (Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners) to work with the dermatologist. We also address this reality in this edition, debuting a new recurring department about PAs in practice on page 21, and offering tips for optimizing a PA in practice on page 38.

Whatever strategies they employ to grow their practices and elevate the level of service they offer patients, dermatology practices can be assured that their specialty is truly poised for growth.