Why Choose a Board-Certified Dermatologist?
We know you have a lot of options, and it can be overwhelming to find the right care. While many health care providers offer dermatologic care and cosmetic procedures, they do not specialize in treating conditions of the skin, hair, and nails like a dermatologist does. When it comes to your skin, your face, and your safety, you deserve the most highly trained and skilled professional. No need to look further, as you get that right here at The Derm Institute of West Michigan.
What is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a doctor with many years of advanced training in correctly identifying conditions that affect the hair, skin, and nails. They are the true experts in diagnosing and treating over 3,000 different skin-related diseases and conditions. A patient would commonly see a dermatologist for issues including, but certainly not limited to: acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, rashes, skin cancer, and wrinkles. They also have advanced training in skin surgeries and cosmetic injections and treatments.
What Education Do They Require?
Your dermatologist endured a long road of education and intense training to be able to provide the highest level of care. They began with a 4-year degree at an accredited college, often performing at the top of their class. From there, the budding dermatologist completed 4 years of medical school to become a medical doctor (MD) or a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO). After earning their medical degree, they then completed a year-long internship in medicine, pediatrics, or surgery.
Your doctor was then accepted into a competitive dermatology residency program and completed a minimum of 3 years of specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions. They also received advanced training in cosmetic treatments and injections.
Why Board-Certified?
A board-certified dermatologist has completed all of the education requirements listed above, has a state-issued license to practice medicine, and has passed the difficult exams given by the American Board of Dermatology or American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology. Meeting all of these specifications ensures that your dermatologist has the training and expertise to accurately diagnose conditions of the skin, hair, and nails and provide the best possible treatment plan for each patient. Look for the words “board-certified” or the credentials “FAAD” or “FAOCD” to ensure that you are getting the care you deserve.
To read more about dermatologists and their training, click here.