Searching for a dermatologist in DC can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. But finding the right fit for you doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you are seeking a dermatologist for cosmetic or medical reasons, here are my tips for simplifying your search:
Start your search by choosing only board-certified dermatologists.
The first and easiest thing you can do to narrow your search is to only consider those dermatologists who are certified by the American Board of Dermatology. Board-certified dermatologists have more advanced training because they have chosen to continue their education after medical school.
After earning a medical license, dermatologists who want to become board-certified will complete a 1-year internship and 3-year residency program. During this additional 4 years of hands-on experience, these dermatologists receive more in-depth training in dermatology. They must also pass rigorous examinations and are required to maintain their certification by staying up-to-date on the newest advancements in the field of dermatology.
I understand the amount of training and education required to achieve this honor because I’ve done it. As a board-certified dermatologist, I have completed more than what’s required in Washington, DC, to practice dermatology. This achievement has made me a better, more skilled doctor and enables me to provide the highest quality of care.
Find out if your dermatologist holds membership in professional organizations.
When a dermatologist is involved in organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology or the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, it shows that they are committed to ongoing education and remaining active in their field. Professional organizations often require that you meet certain standards of ethics in order to hold membership, so only those dermatologists who meet these strict criteria can join.
I currently hold membership in 5 professional organizations:
- American Academy of Dermatology
- American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
- Women’s Dermatologic Society
- American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- Washington, DC, Dermatological Society
Check to see if they have been recognized for their work.
A good dermatologist will have happy clients, but the best dermatologist in DC will have happy clients as well as additional awards and accolades. Being recognized through local, regional, or even national healthcare awards indicates that your doctor has earned a good reputation not only among their clients, but also among their peers and their community.
I’m happy to have been named a “Top Doc” by Washingtonian magazine for several years. To earn this accomplishment, I had to be nominated and selected by other doctors in DC. Knowing that the local medical community recognizes my work is a great honor.
Browse through their website – especially before-and-after photos.
You can learn a lot about a dermatologist by looking at their website. Ask yourself questions like: Do I like the aesthetic of this website? Is it up-to-date? Is it easy to navigate? Your experience online often foreshadows your experience in the office. So, make sure the doctor’s online presence is positive before making an appointment.
You can also look for before-and-after photos to get an idea of the doctor’s skill. Remember to check and make sure the photos are of real patients not stock images provided by a manufacturer.
Meet with them for a consultation.
The best way to decide if a dermatologist is right for you is to schedule an in-person consultation. This meeting will clue you in to the doctor’s bedside manner, their aesthetic preferences, and their general philosophy. Be sure to bring a list of questions beforehand about anything you want to know, including specific questions about the treatment you are interested in.
A Personal Decision
Choosing a dermatologist is a personal decision that only you can make. If you’re ready to learn more about a specific treatment, or about my qualifications or experience, please contact us today. I’d be happy to help you on your search for the right dermatologist and treatment plan.
Leave a Reply