DHSc, MPAS, PA-C
General and surgical dermatology
Pittsburgh, PA
How long have you been in dermatology and what’s your favorite thing about it?
I have practiced dermatology for the nearly a decade. I love dermatology because I am a visual person. I love the attention to detail and recognizing subtle differences in presentation of rashes or lesions. I also love that you have the opportunity to really improve a patient’s quality of life by helping with his or her skin issue.
What’s your dermatology passion?
I have a particular interest in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Over the past several years psoriasis treatment has evolved rapidly, however, atopic dermatitis treatments remain somewhat more limited. I enjoy the challenge of finding the right combination of medications, including compounded medications, that can provide the patient with relief.
Please tell us about your Doctorate degree.
The decision to go back to school to obtain my doctorate was influenced by a variety of factors. Most importantly, I wanted to complete the Doctor of Science degree for personal satisfaction. I am the first person in my family to go to college so, education is something that I value quite a lot. I wanted to receive a terminal degree chiefly because of my love of education. Next, I have a love that extends beyond being a student to being a teacher. I am an assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Pittsburgh and I felt that it was important for students to learn from a doctorally prepared professor. And lastly, I do believe that our profession will one day make a transition to entry-level doctorates. Our nurse practitioner counterparts have already made this transition. Many other healthcare professionals such as pharmacists and physical therapists are obtaining doctoral degrees. Although, I don’t think it's necessary for a PA to have a doctorate to practice medicine, I felt that with other professions making the transition, it would be best for me to be prepared and remain competitive in the future, if I was educated at the doctoral level.
What do you wish people knew about dermatology?
I wish more people realized how much the appearance of their hair, skin, and nails reveals to the dermatology provider. I can visually examine a patient’s nails or skin and make a diagnosis of systemic disease. Dermatology is not all popping pimples; we care for very sick patients with complex systemic disease.
Do you perform your own surgical procedures?
Yes. Surgery is another huge component of my practice. I enjoy performing excisions of both malignant and benign lesions. I have worked in combined plastic surgery and dermatology clinics for a number of years, this setting has provided me with excellent surgical training.
On the weekend you can be found...
I enjoy spending at much time as possible outside with my boxer dogs, Willow and Delphine. If I'm not enjoying time outside, you will find me at the gym lifting weights.
