Choosing the right dermatologist is a crucial step in the process of keeping your skin healthy. Whether you are seeing one for the first time or want to make the switch to someone who understands your needs better, here’s what you need to know.
5 Things To Keep in Mind When Choosing a Dermatologist
Take a Look at Their Credentials
Consider seeing a dermatologist who is board-certified. Board certification indicates that the dermatologist has undertaken extra dermatology training and testing to meet certain standards established by their peers and has passed rigorous exams in their field of work.
Board-certified dermatologists not only keep up with the latest breakthroughs in skincare, but they also have advanced knowledge, training, and abilities in treating skin, hair, and nail health issues.
Ensure Their Expertise Is Relevant
Dermatologists are physicians with doctoral degrees in medicine, and they can specialize in one or more branches of dermatology, including but not limited to:
- Medical dermatology
- Cosmetic dermatology
- Surgical dermatology
- Dermatopathology
- Mohs surgery
- Dermatoepidemiology
- Immunodermatology
One dermatologist may have more expertise in a specific field than another, so you should choose a provider whose experience most aligns with your unique needs and conditions.
Check Patient Reviews
Reviewing patient feedback and ratings can offer valuable insights into the quality of care offered by a dermatologist. Exploring online reviews is a valuable method to gauge the opinions of other patients regarding the dermatologist. However, it is essential to verify that the reviews you are reading are from actual patients.
See If Insurance Coverage Is Available
Certain dermatology procedures such as steroid injections, surgery, and light therapy may be eligible for insurance coverage if they are deemed medically necessary. Medically necessary services may involve the treatment of serious skin conditions such as severe acne, eczema, psoriasis, infections, and skin cancer.
Prioritize Your Comfort
Opting for a dermatologist you feel at ease with can enhance the effectiveness of treatments and facilitate clear communication, leading to better skin. For example, consider whether you would feel more comfortable sharing your health needs with a dermatologist of the same or opposite sex. Expertise in treating the unique needs of men and women is growing among dermatologists in order to enhance patient comfort and satisfaction.
Where To Find the Right Dermatologist in California
First OC Dermatology provides a diverse range of cosmetic and medical dermatology services to address various skin conditions and concerns effectively. Operating from two easily accessible Orange County locations in Fountain Valley and Irvine, CA, our team of both female and male board-certified dermatologists is equipped to address all skin concerns for every member of your family.
Schedule a consultation with us today by calling 949-679-9997 (Irvine) or 714-531-2966 (Fountain Valley).