5 Tips for Finding a Good Dermatologist

One benefit of increased vaccination rates and decreasing pandemic restrictions is the return of elective medical procedures. If you have skin concerns you postponed seeking treatment for during the worst days of COVID-19, now is the time to find a dermatologist.

Where should you start your search? Here are five tips for finding a good dermatologist so that you can get the glowing complexion you crave.

Your first stop for finding a good dermatologist is your primary care physician (PCP). You may need to consult them for a referral anyway, depending on your coverage. Many HMO insurance policies require such documentation before you can see a specialist. While this step may seem like an unnecessary headache, especially if you work multiple jobs or long hours, it can save you considerable cash to visit an approved in-network provider.

However, you may have a bit of time-saving luck on your side. More and more practices now offer telemedicine services — including dermatologists. You might be able to score your PCP referral using this method, even attend your initial consultation from the comfort of your couch. Some providers offer a more convenient office location while your specialist takes your case facts via computer.

Who do you trust the most? Your friends and family want what’s best for you, making them an invaluable source of referral information. If you know somebody who has a dermatologist they love, ask them whether their physician is currently accepting new patients.

Your colleagues could also provide valuable input, especially if you know that they have the same insurance coverage you do. However, proceed with caution, only asking if you’re sure they share fairly equal footing on the corporate ladder. Many organizations now contain a mix of contractors, interns, consultants and employees. You don’t want to unwittingly trigger someone who doesn’t get benefits and is burdened by overwhelming healthcare costs.

Your insurance company ultimately controls what providers you can see. If you’ve battled with them in the past, you might have better luck starting there. While they may still deny necessary procedures, they have a harder time refusing coverage for a doctor they recommended you see.

What if you purchase your coverage independently? If so, pay careful attention when you scour the exchange for plans. Look for those that offer low or zero-cost copays for specialists to avoid running up enormous bills despite having insurance.

You have more information at your fingertips than ever. Use Google to search for the best providers in your area. Many publications put out annual “best of” lists, which can become valuable starting points for finding quality help you can trust.

After receiving a referral, you can also use the internet to research your provider. How long have they been in practice? Do they specialize in a specific area, such as treating skin cancer?

This tip may sound discriminatory. However, you pay a pretty penny for your dermatology care, and you get the most bang for your buck when your doctor understands your skin’s unique needs.

For example, your skin’s melanin level impacts the rate of skin aging changes between various racial groups. Men have bigger pores and more sebaceous glands than women. Those who are older may feel skeptical about a younger provider, and ultimately, your comfort matters in health care.

Furthermore, female patients might feel more comfortable with a same-sex provider for one critical reason. Considerable bias still exists in the medical field, and some doctors have a terrible track record of dismissing women’s concerns.

Once you have your appointment, it’s time to prepare. Don’t worry if it’s your first time. These tips can help:

• Prepare your medical history: Your dermatologist will ask you questions about past surgeries, prescription and over-the-counter medication use, any supplements or herbs you take and your family’s history of various disorders. It helps to jot these answers down in advance so that you don’t forget under pressure.
• Write down your questions and concerns: Likewise, write down the problems you want to address with your doctor. Many physicians spend only five to ten minutes in the treatment room, and you could understandably forget, especially if you feel rushed.
• Take a partner: It’s always wise to take a partner with you to medical appointments. They can take note of details you might otherwise miss and serve as a support system.
• Don’t wear makeup: Your dermatologist will likely want to evaluate your skin, requiring you to remove any you would apply, anyway.

Lessening pandemic rules means that it’s now time to schedule those doctor appointments you postponed during COVID-19. If your skin poses concerns, you’ll need the right physician.

Follow the tips above to find a good dermatologist. Your complexion will thank you.