Continuing Education and Strong Communication: How to Improve the Dermatology Team

At the start of the second day of Fall Dermatology Week 2023, Lakshi Aldredge, MSN, ANP-BC, DCNP, FAANP, and Linda Stein Gold, MD, presented their session, “The Dermatology Team,” sharing what it takes to be a successful dermatology care team and noting that this does not happen by accident.

Dr Aldridge started by stressing that it is important to have strong relationships with physicians’ community partners. “It's really important that you do outreach to the surrounding medical practices in your community, making sure that they're aware of how you receive consults [and] what kind of patients you're seeing,” she stated.

She added that a successful dermatology practice ensures each team member is getting continuing medical education (CME) credits.

“That's important for all of your licensed folks, but it's also important for the rest of the staff. And that could be your medical assistants, your LPNs, your RNs. Everyone needs to make sure that they're staying up to date on the latest guidelines and practices,” she noted.

Dr Stein Gold agreed with Dr Aldridge, adding that the further physicians get in their career and the more professional, the more they understand what they do and do not know.

“I think that's critical, especially providing an environment which encourages collaboration [and] asking questions. Whether it's dermatologist to dermatologist or nurse practitioner, physician assistant to dermatologist, or to each other, it is critical to always feel comfortable in getting another opinion,” she noted.

She concluded by summarizing that it is important for physicians to know their staff members’ strengths and abilities. She also stressed physicians should make sure everybody takes ownership in the practice, and that communication is key. Additionally, they should ensure everybody understands and communicates their needs and gives constructive criticism, which will maximize clinic efficiency. Finally, she stated that it is important for physicians to provide opportunities for ongoing education and CME to ensure they retain their great staff.

For more meeting coverage, visit the Fall Dermatology Week 2023 newsroom.

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Reference
Aldridge L, Stein Gold L. The dermatology team. Presented at: Dermatology Week 2023; September 20-23, 2023; Virtual.