Mentee: Christine Akoh, MD, PhD
Mentor: Seemal Desai, MD, FAAD
Innovative Dermatology
During my one-week rotation with Dr. Seemal Desai at Innovative Dermatology, I was exposed to new topical therapies and laser-based devices that are not readily available in an academic setting. I also learned to appreciate the value of a dermatology-focused electronic medical record system to improve documentation and clinic follow-up.
Some newer medications I learned about included acne medications for application on the face and trunk, steroid-sparing topicals for plaque psoriasis, and topical medications for actinic keratoses that I was less familiar with. Although some might be cost-prohibitive, the office was able to provide patients with either samples or access to pharmacies to obtain the medications at a cheaper price. I also learned about newer non-ablative lasers to address pigmentation, texture, and were safe for all skin types. Many of these therapies I hope to incorporate into my future practice.
Dr. Desai is a world-renowned expert in vitiligo. While in Texas, I saw many pediatric and adult vitiligo patients visit his office. Some patients had very active and widespread disease and were made aware of a phase 3 clinical trial for a JAK inhibitor that would soon be underway. It was aspiring to see how he combined his clinical expertise with cutting-edge research that will greatly impact the field of dermatology and improve the quality of life for many patients in the future.
I am appreciative of the invaluable advice Dr. Desai provided me regarding career trajectory and people who I may want to network with in the future. I was impressed by his commitment to leadership and service in dermatology professional societies and ability to find time to precept with dermatology residents at the local university.
Participating in the SOCS Observership has confirmed my interests in pursuing a career in dermatology in the private practice setting. As a private practice dermatologist, I will be able to make contributions to the dermatology profession through leadership, service, and participation in clinical trials. I truly value the mentorship I received and hope to continue to foster such relationships throughout my training and career.