Dermatologists are physicians who diagnose and treat disorders of the skin. Dermatologists may be specialists who treat diseases and tumors of the skin, hair, nails, and sweat glands. Dermatologists may also specialize in dermasurgery and practice surgery to treat skin conditions. All dermatologists must rely on advanced skills and exercise critical judgment in their field.

Dermatology Training Requirements To Obtain A Dermatology License

Generally, training for dermatology requires twelve years of undergraduate and post-graduate education in the field of medicine, as well as specialization in surgery. Dermatologists complete their internship as a physician and then become eligible to apply for a dermatology residency at a hospital. Once residency is complete, dermatologists may practice dermatology in hospitals, clinics, or in private practice.

Cosmetic dermatology is also becoming increasingly popular. Therefore, training programs include training in dermabrasion, collagen filling, �Botox� injections, laser rejuvenation procedures, and chemical peeling. These procedures are typically performed by dermasurgeons, who also perform Mohs skin cancer surgery and liposucion. Dermasurgeons must receive certification from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, in addition to the ABD, requiring dermasurgones to support and promote the ethical standards of dermatologists to provide services that are in the best interest of the patient.

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Dermatologist Schools and Degree Programs

Dermatologists are eligible for certification after completion of hospital residency, and passing written and oral examinations administered by the ABD. Dermatologists then receive the title of Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology. A Diplomate may then apply for fellowship status at the American Society of Dermatology, or for dermasurgeons, in the American Society fro Dermatologic Surgery.

The requirements for licensure for dermatologists are set forth by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD). The board requires that graduates from medical school complete a three year hospital residency in dermatology. Dermatology residencies are extremely competitive in terms of requirements, so it is important that physicians pursuing a residency in dermatology are highly qualified and prepared. Physicians going into dermasurgery must complete 5 years of surgical training before beginning a dermatology residency. Training in a dermatology residency includes intense medical and surgical training, schooling in rheumatology, immunology, neurology, and infectious diseases. Dermatologists are trained in many fields because more serious conditions manifest symptoms within the skin. Dermatologists also receive training in venereology, the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, and phlebology, a specialty which deals with problems of the veins.

Dermatology Prerequisites

Prerequisites for medical school require two to four years of undergraduate training in a science or pre-medical degree. Admissions also require successful completion of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Medical schools also consider extracurricular activities, grade point average, and letters of recommendation. Various schools and colleges offer flexible course schedules that range from day, night and weekend classes and training sessions.

Dermatology Continuing Education

After board certification, many dermatologists take continuing education to specialize in pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology (the pathology of skin diseases), surgical dermatology, and dermatological immunology. Physicians are also required by medical boards to take continued education courses to maintain renew their license. Search HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com to find continued education courses for Dermatology.