All for one and one for all
Dermatologists, Academy unite for the specialty and its future.
Dermatology is undergoing significant transformations driven by changes in practice styles, regulatory requirements, and technologic advancements. As dermatologists adapt to these shifts, understanding how to evaluate and manage resources effectively is crucial for preserving optimal practice operations.
Friday’s session, F001 – The Future of Dermatology: What Changes Are Coming and How Can We Prepare?, focused on essential tools that can help members stay informed and engaged to better serve their patients. That includes utilizing the Academy’s library of resources as well as engaging in state and federal advocacy efforts.
Sabra Sullivan, MD, PhD, FAAD
“Ten years ago, most dermatologists were in a small group or solo practice, and now many dermatologists are in large group practices or private equity practices,” said Dr. Sullivan, a dermatologist and CEO of Dermatology Associates, LLC, in Jackson, Mississippi. “How we practice is changing and it is changing rapidly. We also have rapidly changing regulations. Sometimes, it’s hard to keep up with them and make sure you’re in compliance, while still being able to deliver optimal care to your patients.”
The full panel discussed a range of issues, including scope of practice and truth in advertising, challenges with private insurers and Medicare, access to prescription medication and over-the-counter products, artificial intelligence (AI), pediatric dermatology, and diversity in dermatology. Panelists included Bruce A. Brod, MD, MHCI, FAAD; Brett M. Coldiron, MD, FAAD; Thy Nhat Huynh, MD, FAAD; Jon Klint Peebles, MD, FAAD; and Melissa Piliang, MD, FAAD.
Regulatory compliance
Perhaps the primary challenge for dermatologists is keeping up with rapidly changing regulations and ensuring compliance with new laws. Practices must invest in updated technology and dedicated IT support to navigate these complexities. Similarly, the adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs) and other digital tools has transformed the way dermatologists document patient care, write prescriptions, and manage billing.
Dr. Sullivan said these systems can be costly and require ongoing maintenance and staff training. Many practices now require a dedicated IT administrator, as the complexities of managing a dermatology practice are ever-changing.
“If you bought one medical operating system or electronic system then you most likely have had to buy two or three more. They can be quite expensive and time consuming,” said Dr. Sullivan. “Today, in this digital age, it can often take longer to jump through the hoops needed to get a medication for our patients. We have to be mindful of the time it takes away from patient care as we strive to deliver the best care possible to our patients.”
Dr. Sullivan reminded attendees that the Academy offers members an array of tools and resources to support practice management, including billing and coding assistance, medication access guides, and live support. These benefits — all of which can be found on the Academy website — help dermatologists streamline operations and address common challenges.
The struggle for reimbursement
Another adversity, Dr. Sullivan said, is the ongoing struggle over Medicare reimbursement. Despite rising costs, physician reimbursement rates have not kept pace, leading to financial strain for many practices. The AADA actively advocates for fair reimbursement rates to ensure that dermatologists can continue to provide critical, high-quality care to Medicare patients.
“All physicians, not just dermatologists, have continuously been reimbursed less and less over the past 10 to 15 years,” said Dr. Sullivan. “Although hospitals and other entities have received cost of living adjustments, physicians have not.”
Dr. Sullivan credits Melissa P. Piliang, MD, FAAD, the AADA’s Government Affairs and Health Policy Council chair, with working for the best interests of its members and the specialty. According to Dr. Sullivan, AADA leadership advocates on multiple levels to help address issues as they occur and avoid actions that are harmful to dermatology practices.
Advocating for all
The AADA isn’t just advocating for dermatologists, it is advocating for patients as well. Ensuring patient access to dermatology care, Dr. Sullivan said, is of particular importance in rural and underserved areas. The Academy is working to resolve physician shortages and improve access to care through advocacy and support for policies that promote physician-led teams, she said.
Still, other issues — from lidocaine shortages and challenges in pediatric dermatology to newly established practices and overall practice management — have the attention of Academy leadership, said Dr. Sullivan. She reminded attendees that the Academy is a trove of resources and a united voice for the betterment of the specialty and its patients. And, she said, by educating the next generation of dermatologists on practice management and patient advocacy, the Academy ensures a strong future for the specialty.
“Each individual dermatologist can access Academy resources,” Dr. Sullivan said. “We have a lot to offer, and remember, each of us can make a difference.”
