What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a qualified medical specialist who, through additional training, has obtained postgraduate qualifications to specialise in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin disease and skin cancers.

One person in ten who consults a general practitioner will do so because of a skin complaint. The GP may decide to seek confirmation of a diagnosis or assistance with therapy. This is when the patient is referred to a dermatologist.

Dermatologists treat patients of all ages, from babies and children to adolescents and adults. Although diseases of the skin are many and varied, Australian dermatologists spend much of their time treating diseases caused by exposure to the sun. These include skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.

Other potential skin problems that are part and parcel of a typical dermatologist’s work are acne, eczema, skin infections, psoriasis, occupational dermatitis, hair and nail disorders, surveillance of moles and cosmetic problems of the skin.

At-A-Glance

• Dermatologists are experts in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin cancers and skin diseases
• Dermatologists specialise in the management of skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, hair and nail disorders, and occupational dermatitis
• Dermatologists provide advice concerning skin health, and treat cosmetic problems of the skin
• Dermatologists treat patients of all ages, from babies and children to adolescents and adults

How do I book in to see a Dermatologist?

The majority of patients are referred to us by their local General Practitioner, however a referral is not mandatory. Any person may make an appointment to consult with a Dermatologist, however Medicare will only provide a monetary rebate for the consultation if a referral is provided.

What are the average waiting times?

At Westside Dermatology we strive to keep our waiting list as short as possible - urgent appointment slots (through our Priority One Clinics) that are readily available. Waiting times for urgent/ acute cases are generally less than one week. If you have a condition that requires urgent Specialist attention, please consult your family doctor first. Your referring doctor will advice you if a Priority One Clinic booking is necessary and refer you to this dedicated clinic.

We also run Acne Access Clinics twice a week. Waiting times are generally 2 weeks to access these clinics. As with other appointments, a referral from your General Practitioner is advised.

What treatments are used by dermatologists?

Advances in ultraviolet light therapy, photodynamic therapy, laser therapy and drug treatment have revolutionised dermatological therapies over the past few years.

As well, better understanding of skin diseases and skin cancers through advances in genetics, molecular biology, pathology and immunology has assisted dermatologists in the diagnosis and treatment of dermatological illnesses and cancers.

Many skin diseases can be treated with topical therapy, such as creams and lotions. However, in Australia today, surgery is widely used by dermatologists in the treatment of skin cancers, including melanomas. Radiotherapy is also utilised by dermatologists in the treatment of skin cancers.

How do dermatologists train?

Dermatologists are initially trained as doctors, undertaking six or more years of university study to gain their medical degrees. This is followed by several years of full-time practice and training in a teaching hospital as a junior hospital doctor. Application can then be made to enter a five-year training program in dermatology.

Prior to entering College’s training program, prospective trainees undertake additional study and scientific research in dermatology.

Early in the training program, trainees sit for the Clinical Sciences examination. Towards the end of the training program, trainees sit both written and oral components of the Fellowship examination. After passing the Fellowship examination and having completed the training program satisfactorily, a trainee is recommended for Fellowship of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD).

Having gained the FACD, many dermatologists travel to dermatological centres overseas to gain post-Fellowship training or be involved in clinical and experimental research. Furthermore, dermatologists maintain their professional standards and develop new skills through participation in the College’s continuing professional development program.

What is the Australasian College of Dermatologists?

The Australasian College of Dermatologists was established in 1966. Its aims are:

• To promote the study of, and research into, dermatology
• To maintain high standards of practice and ethics in dermatology
• To conduct courses of study and training for specialist qualification
• To conduct conferences in dermatology
• To publish The Australasian Journal of Dermatology and provide a resource for communication of dermatological topics to the community, the media, industry and governments

There are about 350 practising Fellows of College in Australia and over 60 College trainees. Within College, special interest groups include dermatological surgery, contact dermatitis, paediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, genital disorders, laser therapy, superficial radiotherapy, photomedicine and cosmetic dermatology.

Public educational initiatives such as lectures, workshops and media interviews are undertaken by College Fellows on a regular basis. As well, College provides a valuable source of information and advice for government and industry concerning skin disease and skin cancers, including malignant melanoma. Research projects are undertaken by professorial departments of dermatology in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. The Skin and Cancer Foundations in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland also participate in research projects as well as offering more sub-specialised services in dermatology.