If you’re like me, picking up the phone and booking an appointment to go to a dermatologist can be daunting. However, it is incredibly important to take time to inquire and research a dermatologist or clinic in order to find the best match for what your skin needs.
Dermatologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions. But not all dermatologists can help with all your skin problems.
Dermatology is a vast field of study and we’re here to guide you so you find the right one that will help resolve a particular skin problem. Read on to find out more...
8 Guide to Finding the Right Dermatologist
#1 Location
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a dermatologist is their location. If you live in a rural area, it’s important to find a dermatologist who is located close to you. If you live in a city, however, you have more options and can be more selective.
#2 Look at referrals
Ask around for recommendations. Friends, family members, and coworkers can be a great source of information when it comes to finding the right dermatologist. You may also ask your doctor if they can recommend a dermatologist that specializes in your skin problem.
#3 Check their social media
One way to check the services offered by the dermatologist and how satisfied previous patients are is through social media. Check if your derma clinic has Instagram, Facebook page, or even TikTok and look through the reviews and recommendations section.
Most clients express their positive experiences through these social media sites. Some even post before and after treatment results. There are also websites like Google, RateMDs.com, or HealthGrades.com to help you in getting a good feel if the dermatologist is right for you.
Here are some common red flags you can find in the comments to watch out for:
- Hidden fees
- Sales like behavior
- Disappointing results
- Unfriendly atmosphere and attitude
#4 Look for their specialties
Dermatologists are experts on the skin, hair, and nails, and they can treat a variety of conditions, including acne, psoriasis, eczema, skin cancer, and more. They can also provide cosmetic services like Botox injections and laser hair removal.
If you have a specific skin condition, it’s important to find a dermatologist who specializes in that condition.
Ask your dermatologist what their practice specializes in and if they have previously performed the skin surgery or procedure you want to undergo. You may also call the doctor’s office to check if they are experienced in treating a specific type of skin concern.
Check out the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery website to find a specialized dermatologist for your skin condition.
#5 Research their credentials
Make sure that they are board certified and have a good reputation.
In order to be board certified, your dermatologist should have undergone years of training. One must complete four years of college and then at least seven years in medical school (usually followed by 3-8 years of residency training) in order to become a dermatologist. They must also have years of practice, supervised training, and should pass the board exam to be certified.
You can check if your dermatologist is board certified here: https://www.certificationmatters.org/
#6 Do they offer telehealth or cover insurance?
Insurance coverage is another important factor to consider when choosing a dermatologist. Many dermatologists accept insurance, but it’s important to check before making an appointment.
You can find which dermatologist can cover your insurance by checking their website or by contacting the dermatologist directly and asking if they are affiliated with your insurer.
An additional service to check is if they offer is telehealth. Some skin concerns are minor that some health professionals can check or do follow ups through phone or virtual visits.
Note: Make sure that your insurance covers telehealth too!
#7 Reviews, reviews, reviews
When you’re looking for a new dermatologist, it can be SO helpful to read patient reviews. This way, you can get an idea of what to expect from your potential doctor and see if their practice is a good fit for you.
Patient reviews can be helpful in a few different ways. For one, they can give you an idea of how well doctors listen to their patients’ concerns. They can also help you get an idea of the doctor’s bedside manner and level of professionalism.
Beyond basic information about a doctor’s office, patient reviews can also help you determine if a doctor has any notable experience with a certain medical condition or procedure.
#8 Consider what gender you're more comfortable with
It is very important that you are comfortable discussing a certain skin problem with your doctor. Some people may feel more comfortable with a female doctor, while others may prefer a male doctor. There is no right or wrong answer; it is simply a matter of personal preference.
You may also consider your own gender. Ask your dermatologists about their training and experience. Some focuses on skin concerns that are most common in women while some are more experienced in skin conditions that are most common in men.
There are so many different options out there when it comes to treating your skin problems. Make sure to follow the 8 guides above in finding the right dermatologist for you. There is no “best” dermatologist for everyone so be sure to do your research and book an appointment with their office to see if you’ll be a good fit!
Sources:
https://www.asds.net/find-a-dermatologic-surgeon/advanced/true