While in medical school, it can be a challenging to decide on a healthcare specialty. If you’re still in the process of making this decision, consider the many benefits that come with choosing to specialize in dermatology. Learn how to become a dermatologist and enjoy the variety and job perks of this flexible career path!
What is a Dermatologist?
Dermatologists diagnose and treat patients with medical conditions related to the hair, skin, and nails. This includes life-threatening conditions like skin cancer as well as milder skin conditions like eczema or acne.
How to Become a Dermatologist
Complete Your Education
The first step to learning how to become a dermatologist is to receive the proper education and certification. You’ll need to complete your undergraduate degree and graduate from medical school before receiving your license.
Receive Your License
To become a dermatologist, you must be a licensed D.O. or M.D. There are other dermatology-related positions that you can receive as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistants. Licenses vary by state, so be sure to check out the requirements that pertain to you.
Seek Out Certifications
In addition to receiving the proper education and license, many dermatologists also choose to pursue a board certification, making their practice even more reputable. The American Board of Dermatology and the American Academy of Dermatology both offer board certifications for dermatologists.
Get Experience
Before getting hired, you’ll need the proper hands-on experience. You can receive real-world clinical training through rotations, residencies, and fellowships.
Why Specialize in Dermatology?
Many medical professionals find their fit in the dermatology field. Dermatologists often enjoy their work, and, as a result, report high levels of job satisfaction. If you’re thinking about specializing in dermatology, it’s important to think about your skills and interests to determine whether or not they fit this career path. Check out these benefits for choosing to specialize in dermatology:
Variety on the Job
With a career in dermatology, your workday will be diverse. Because of the nature of your work, you’ll see patients of all ages with all types of skin conditions. You’ll have the challenge of treating serious conditions, but you’ll also see a wide array of patients with less serious illnesses. This variety can help prevent burnout, especially if you choose to pursue locum tenens assignments.
Further Specialization
If variety isn’t for you, then you can choose to specialize even further. There are several subsects of dermatology that you can pursue based on your interests. Specialties include pediatric dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and immunodermatology.
Job Outlook
The healthcare field is growing, and with it is greater job opportunities. Dermatology is one of the highest paid physician careers. On average, a dermatologist salary is upwards of $300,000 per year.
Ability to Travel
Dermatologist offices are always looking for locum tenens to fill their vacant positions. Serving as a locum tenens physician comes with many benefits. If you choose to pursue a dermatology locum position, you’ll have the ability to travel to locations of your choice. You’ll have the flexibility to choose positions that fit your location and duration preferences. Choosing one of these positions is a great way to try out a specialty for a designated period of time, before committing to a long-term career. You’ll build your resume and your network as you fill open positions and meet fellow medical professionals. When deciding on a locum tenens position, be sure to compare the pay with the cost of living in the area.
Now that you’ve learned how to become a dermatologist, it’s time to start preparing for the job search! Browse our dermatology locum physician jobs and find an assignment that fits your preferences. See what job opportunities are available to you right now!
June 18, 2018
I believe you have read our mail inviting you as an honorable Speaker for the global conference “International Conference on Clinical & Experimental Dermatology” going to be held during October 04-05, 2018 at Las Vegas, USA. It will be an honor to have your presence and hear your speech at this esteemed congress. We would like to inquire about your interest of participation.