Last Updated on October 20, 2023 by Lori Pace
This article is for you interested in becoming a dermatologist assistant. If you have a passion for helping people improve their skin, we hope our article will help you. Furthermore, we will also explain everything you need about being a dermatologist assistant.
Everyone desires smooth and youthful skin. In the last few decades, cosmetic science has made great strides in the field. Besides, a growing number of people report having blemished or spotted skin. So, they seek the help of dermatologists to correct their conditions.
Statista published a report on the most common skin treatments in the US. It ranked energy-based skin-smoothing treatments as the number one, with over 4 million of these procedures being performed in the US. Skin cancer treatment was closely followed, with more than 3.5 million patients treated each year by dermatologists and their skilled assistants.
What Does A Dermatologist Assistant Do?
Under the supervision of a dermatologist, a dermatologist assistant diagnoses and treats skin conditions in patients. They also assist dermatologists with cosmetic skin treatments such as chemical peel, tattoo removal, and Dermabrasion.
In medical settings, a licensed dermatologist supervises assistants to help them prepare for the examination of patient skin samples and determine different skin conditions. As a dermatologist assistant, you might also need to:
- Assist in administrative tasks at the clinic, including clerical work.
- Assist dermatologists with performing treatments such as phototherapy and patch testing
- Update and consult patients’ medical records
- Take medication as directed
- Refer patients to other specialists if they have questions about their current treatment plan.
How Much Does A Dermatologist Assistant Earn On Average?
The average national salary for a dermatologist assistant hovers around $125,000. However, this can vary depending on how large, location, and what experience you have in the healthcare industry.
An assistant certified in dermatology can make as much as US$58,045 to US$191,985 per year.
What Skills Are Required To Become A Dermatologist Assistant?
Interpersonal skills
Strong communication skills are important as they allow you to work more effectively with patients and medical personnel and provide optimal care.
Technical knowledge
It is important to understand the basics of electronic communication, including database and spreadsheet management, medical record-keeping, and data entry.
Eye for detail
Aspiring assistant dermatologists must be meticulous. You will be able to quickly spot potential drug reactions, allergic reactions, and other adverse effects if you pay attention to the patient’s diagnosis or condition.
Critical thinking
To make informed decisions, you must be objective. This is crucial for the profession. Aspiring dermatologist assistants will need to be able to use logic and reasoning in order to make the best use of the resources available.
Professionalism
Aspiring dermatologist assistants must also have a natural sense of professionalism. Professionalism is essential in medical care. It helps patients to feel comfortable. Your patients will feel more comfortable when you give them facts and show professional empathy.
How To Become A Dermatologist Assistant?
Step 1 – Earn your educational degrees
After you have completed your bachelor’s degree, you can apply for a master’s in physician assistant studies. This master’s degree includes theory classes in medical ethics, lay, clinical decision making and other subjects.
Internships and clinical rotations are also available for this degree. These allow you to train in pediatrics, emergency medicine, or other areas of patient care. The course typically takes six years from your bachelor’s to your master’s and then you can complete your clinical training.
Step 2 – Earn license and get certified
After you have earned your master’s degree you will need to be certified and licensed to practice your profession in any other state. You will need to pass a national certification exam administered by the National Commission on Certification of Doctor Assistants in order to earn your dermatologist assistant license.
You will also need to complete 100 hours of continuing education each year. To maintain your license, you will need to renew your certification every ten years.
Step 3 – Get training
To become a reliable and professional dermatologist assistant, you will need to have highly specialized training. This training is usually completed by dermatologist assistants during their clinical rotations or internships.
