Dermatology: Unveiling the Skin's Silent Battles

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An angry red bump glares amidst the smooth, porcelain white surface. It is a pimple, a clogged gland, a girl’s worst nightmare. Acne is one of the most common afflictions that affect the integumentary system, a human organ system comprised of the skin, hair, and nails. When serious complications in the integumentary system arise, patients need to seek a certain type of doctor, a dermatologist. The American Academy of Dermatology defines dermatologists as those who “diagnose and treat more than 3,000 different diseases...[in] their patients’ skin, hair, and nails” (“Why See”). Unlike cosmetic or plastic surgeons, dermatologists do not focus on surgical aesthetic enhancements, though they can subspecialize in cosmetic dermatology; most dermatologists …show more content…

The great rewards of being a dermatologist are not free: a position in dermatology is highly competitive even amongst elite medical students, as many get turned down from the specialization. The New York Times reveals that “ only 61 percent of seniors who select dermatology as their first choice residency are typically awarded a position in the field [whereas] 98 percent of those pursuing internal medicine” are awarded the specialization (“How to”). Compared to other specializations, dermatology is highly competitive, and the journey to become one is even harder than that of many other doctor specializations. Also, though dermatologists can operate their own private clinics and adjust their workdays, for many beginning dermatologists, the extensive sum of money needed to open an office is unrealistic. Instead, it is best to employ under a health care provider first to garner a good reputation and save up to open a private clinic (“Dermatologists”). On the other hand, for those who enjoy the field and complete the schooling, the rewards are truly worth it. The benefits of being a dermatologist come not only from working in an enjoyable career, but also from the monetary compensation. Medscape’s 2014 Dermatologist Compensation reports that “the average salary for a U.S. dermatologist is $308,000, ranking in top third of highest paying physician specialties” (“How to”). Furthermore, once dermatologists operate their own private clinics, they can set their own schedules and breaks, which differs from the spontaneous and erratic schedules of many other doctors. Though there is rigorous competition to become a dermatologist, for those who succeed, the many rewards compensate all their hard work and time invested. The Career Information

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