DITL of a derm PA

As a Dermatology Physician Assistant, no two days are exactly alike, but I love the variety and challenge my role brings. Many people ask, "What exactly does a Derm PA do?" and I'm always excited to share! My day typically kicks off bright and early. Before seeing patients, I'm often reviewing charts, checking in on labs and pathology results for patients from previous days. It's crucial to stay on top of these to ensure continuity of care and proper follow-up. For instance, I might be reviewing a "check path" report for a suspicious lesion we biopsied last week, or assessing blood work related to a patient's systemic skin condition. Once the clinic officially opens, the pace picks up quickly. A significant part of my day is dedicated to skin cancer screenings. It's incredibly rewarding to educate patients on sun safety and perform thorough exams to catch any potential issues early. I also frequently perform in-office procedures like Cyst I&D (incision and drainage), which can bring immediate relief to patients. Throughout the day, I see a wide range of dermatological conditions. I often perform a KOH prep to look for buds & hyphea when I suspect a fungal infection, like Tinea Corporis. It’s satisfying to get a quick diagnosis right there in the clinic. I manage chronic conditions such as Atopic dermatitis (eczema) and Prurigo nodularis, focusing on treatment plans that improve quality of life. Sometimes, I encounter more complex cases like Cutaneous sarcoidosis, which requires careful monitoring and often collaboration with other specialists. Another common concern I address is hair loss, which can be distressing for patients. We explore various causes and treatment options, from topical solutions to systemic therapies. Every patient presents a unique challenge, and I enjoy putting together the puzzle pieces to find the best approach for them. Beyond direct patient care, there's always administrative work and continuous learning. We often have quick team huddles, and I might be preparing for an afternoon clinic, ensuring all patient information is ready. During the holiday season, our office gets into the spirit! We even have holiday stuffies we give to kids who have to get shots, which really helps to make their experience a little less scary. It's these small touches that make our clinic feel like a supportive community. Being a Derm PA is truly a dynamic and fulfilling career. It combines medical knowledge with hands-on procedures and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. From diagnosing and treating common skin issues to recognizing rare conditions, my "day in the life" is always enriching and full of learning opportunities. It's more than just skin deep; it's about helping people feel confident and healthy.