While some skin conditions can be treated with creams or medications sold over the counter, you do need to see a skin doctor (dermatologist) if what you have can lead to extensive scarring or permanent skin damage, if it covers a large part of your body, or if you think it indicates a potentially serious condition.
If you have never visited a skin doctor and wondering how to find one, there are a number of ways to do so: you obtain a referral from your primary care physician; ask your family, relatives, and other people you trust for recommendations; or simply search the Internet.
The question now is how can you be sure which of the potential candidates is a good match for you? The tips listed below are intended to help you choose the right skin doctor.
Tip #1 Check their credentials.
Board certification and fellowship training are two important factors to consider when choosing a skin doctor—giving you the assurance that the one you’re planning to work with is highly qualified and adept and stays abreast of the latest advances in the field.
You can verify the dermatologist’s board certification status through the American Board of Dermatology and Certification Matters websites.
You can also access the practice’s website to find out the number of years the skin doctor has been in practice and if they offer the services you need.
Additionally, if you’re seeking services for your child, be sure to check whether the doctor specializes in pediatric dermatology.
Tip # 2 Reputation matters.
Though not the only determining factor, reviews can help you decide with greater confidence. Healthgrades, Yelp, Google, and the practice’s website and social media page are some of the places online where you can find patient reviews and get an idea of the doctor’s reputation.
Tip #3 Consider location.
Choosing a skin doctor whose office is located close to where you live or work is important, especially if you have transportation issues or if your skin problem requires ongoing treatment.
Tip #4 Find out what your insurance covers.
To reap the most insurance benefits and ensure you pay the least out-of-pocket costs for your skin care, check your insurance coverage and whether the dermatologist is in-network.
Tip #5 Set up an initial consultation.
Making an in-person appointment with the skin doctor is an excellent way to ascertain not only their expertise but also their bedside manner and your compatibility with them.
Notice how the doctor answers your questions and addresses your concerns. If they are patient, thorough, genuinely concerned about the outcome of your treatment, and you are comfortable around them, they are likely the one you need to put at the top of your list.
Tip #6 Consider the wait times.
When choosing a skin doctor, also take into account the wait times, as this is a reflection of how they respect and value your time. If you don’t have to time to drive across town to get treatment, then you definitely don’t like spending hours sitting in a waiting room.
Tip #7 Pay attention to the staff’s attitude.
While it’s undeniably important to assess the doctor’s bedside manner and communication style, also pay attention to how their staff treats you, such as if they patiently, promptly, and thoroughly answer your questions, and greet you by name. These are the basics of patient care. If you don’t feel cared for as an individual, you may need to cross them off your list.
Reliable Skin Doctor in Miami and Coral Gables, FL
At Children’s Skin Center, our highly qualified skin doctors— Dr. Ana Duarte and Dr. Andleeb Usmani—have earned the trust and respect of their patients for their expertise, professionalism, and dedication to providing the highest quality of care and ensuring exceptional treatment outcomes for the entire range of skin problems.
To see one of our skin doctors, give us a call or text at (305) 669-6555. We have several locations across Florida: Coral Gables, Doral, Miami, Miami Lakes, Miramar, Pinecrest, and West Kendall. We look forward to serving you!
