Public Perception of Dermatologists: A Single Center Surveillance

Lee, Joon Bum; Oh, Byung Ho; Ryoo, Young Wook; Kim, Sung Ae

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Currently, physicians from different medical specialties treat patients' skin conditions, especially for cosmetic purposes. Although diagnosis and treatment made by non-dermatologists may sometimes be improper, many patients are unable to distinguish a non-dermatologist from a dermatologist.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate public's perception of dermatologists.
METHODS
A total of 515 participants completed the online survey. The questionnaire consisted of three main parts: information regarding respondents, experience of dermatological treatments, and awareness of skin treatments performed by dermatologists, and by medical specialties.
RESULTS
Overall, 48% of respondents were unable to distinguish a dermatologist from a non-dermatologist; however, 93% of respondents responded that they were willing to visit a dermatologist for treatment. A fair number of respondents identified dermatologists by signboards, professional biographies, and licenses. However, some non-dermatologists' signboards and biographies were considered misleading and confused patients.
CONCLUSION
Many patients intend to visit a dermatologist for their dermatological treatments. However, half could not distinguish dermatologists from non-dermatologists. For this reason, we underline the importance of increasing public awareness of the dermatologist's expertise in helping patients in choosing their clinics.