Dermatology Elective
I. Rationale
Family physicians are on the front line of managing dermatologic conditions. In light of the fact that 10
to 15 percent of general physician consultations are dermatologically related, it is extremely important
that all physicians have a minimum core of dermatologic knowledge. Family physicians must develop
keen observational skills and use appropriate terminology to characterize different skin lesions. A family
physician must have knowledge of different diagnoses associated with different lesion types and must
know where to access appropriate information in a timely manner using textbook or online resources.
Family physicians are experts at treating the whole patient and are well suited to detecting systemic
disease that may have dermatologic manifestations. The dermatology elective will allow the resident to
develop a better understanding of dermatological problems and their differential diagnosis and clinical
management in the ambulatory care setting. The resident will become more cognizant of the special
knowledge and skills of dermatological consultants when referral is appropriate. They will also become
more aware of the impact of dermatological diseases on the body image of patients.
Some residents may choose to complete an elective rotation in dermatology to help improve their
diagnostic and treatment abilities. For these residents, this particular curriculum is available. It is in a
different site than the required dermatology rotation in order to allow for a different perspective and a
different patient population.
II. Competencies
Medical Knowledge/Patient Care
Goals:
A. Provide compassionate and culturally appropriate patient care that recognizes the effect of skin
problems on the patient and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive preventative care.
B. Be proficient in the diagnosis and treatment of common dermatologic diseases and be adept at
performing common dermatologic procedures.
Objectives:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
Understand role of prevention in dermatologic problems.
Describe the distinguishing signs of skin malignancy.
Demonstrate the ability to take a dermatologic history and describe cutaneous physical signs.
Understand the skin effects of occupational exposures.
Understand the appropriate diagnostic method for common disorders.
Recognize common skin diseases and skin tumors.
Recognize important cutaneous signs of systemic disease or adverse reactions to drugs.
Appreciate the impact of skin diseases on patients and their families.
Possess knowledge about dermatologic emergencies, including the concept of skin failure (e.g.,
toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, acute urticaria, angioedema); residents should
be able to recognize the emergency and initiate first-line management
J. Describe eczema, psoriasis, scabies, fungal infection and urticaria.
K. Through their introduction to dermatologic therapy, residents should understand the principles of
topical treatment, including choice of base (e.g., cream versus ointment or lotion) and use of
occlusion.
L. Understand basic principles of wound healing.
Last Updated April 19, 2013
M. Recognize melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer; be able to distinguish from pre-malignant
and benign cutaneous lesions.
N. Recognize cutaneous vasculitis, explain the principle causes and formulate a plan of investigation.
O. Be able to perform:
1. Biopsy of skin lesions (punch biopsy, shave biopsy, excisional biopsy)
2. Scraping and microscopic examination
3. Injection (local anesthesia, steroids)
4. Incision and drainage
5. Destruction of lesions (cryosurgery, electrodesiccation, curettage)
P. Write a prescription for topical treatment that reflects knowledge of quantities and bases.
Q. Diagnosis, differential diagnosis, management and prevention of:
1. Inflammatory skin disease (atopic and contact dermatitis, psoriasis)
2. Skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma)
3. Acne
4. Leg ulcers
5. Cutaneous infections (bacterial, viral and fungal)
6. Infestations (e.g., scabies)
7. Urticaria
8. Blister disorders
9. Drug eruption
Learning Activities
X
Attending Rounds
X
Multidisciplinary Rounds
Grand Rounds
Sub-Specialty Conference
Morning Report
X
Didactics
Other
Evaluation Methods
X
Attending Evaluation
Program Dir
X
Review
X
360 ᵒ evaluation
Other
X
X
X
Research Conference
Ethics/Comm Conference
Specialty Conference
Noon Conference
Faculty Supervision
Procedures
X
X
X
Directly Supervised Procedures
In-Training Exam
X
Videotape Review
X
X
Outpatient Clinics
Direct Patient care
Resident Seminar
Journal Club
Readings
Morning Report
Faculty Supervision
and Feedback
Quarterly Review
Interpersonal and Communication Skills
Goal: Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively with the patient so that dermatologic diagnosis
and treatment is provided in a non-judgmental, caring manner.
Objectives:
A. Understand the impact of skin problems on patients and their families.
B. Develop skills for interviewing that allow accurate, complete collection of information
regarding symptoms, family, and community environment that affect the patient.
C. Develop skills in communicating results, educating patients and their families, dealing with
sensitive issues for patients and families, and negotiating a plan of treatment with the
patient and family.
D. Develop counseling skills appropriate for prevention and management of skin problems.
Last Updated April 19, 2013
Learning Activities
Attending Rounds
Multidisciplinary Rounds
Grand Rounds
Sub-Specialty Conference
X
Morning Report
Didactics
Other
Evaluation Methods
X
Attending Evaluation
Program Dir
X
Review
X
360 ᵒ evaluation
Other
X
X
X
Research Conference
Ethics/Comm Conference
Specialty Conference
Noon Conference
Faculty Supervision
Procedures
X
X
X
Directly Supervised Procedures
In-Training Exam
X
Videotape Review
X
Outpatient Clinics
Direct Patient care
Resident Seminar
Journal Club
Readings
Morning Report
Faculty Supervision
and Feedback
Quarterly Review
Practice Based Learning and Improvement
Goal: Utilize diagnostic and evidence-based treatment guidelines as well as maintain up to date
knowledge of appropriate usage of evolving dermatologic treatment technology.
Objectives:
A. Identify resources for personal education and develop a plan for ongoing education in
dermatology.
B. Identify Point of Care learning resources
C. Utilize Electronic Medical Records Decision aid tools and templates for patient care
D. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses of knowledge and skills in self and others.
E. Appropriately code for procedures done.
F. Document all procedures performed and the diagnoses of patients managed.
Learning Activities
Attending Rounds
Multidisciplinary Rounds
Grand Rounds
Sub-Specialty Conference
Morning Report
X
Didactics
Other
Evaluation Methods
X
Attending Evaluation
X
Program Dir
Review
360 ᵒ evaluation
Other
Systems Based Practice
Last Updated April 19, 2013
X
X
Research Conference
Ethics/Comm Conference
Specialty Conference
Noon Conference
Faculty Supervision
Procedures
X
X
X
Directly Supervised Procedures
In-Training Exam
X
Videotape Review
X
Outpatient Clinics
Direct Patient care
Resident Seminar
Journal Club
Readings
Morning Report
Faculty Supervision
and Feedback
Quarterly Review
Goal: Incorporate knowledge of the dermatology specialty in order to determine which problems can be
managed by a family physician and to understand how to coordinate needed referrals to specialty
providers.
Objectives:
A. Utilize and understand the importance of appropriate referral or consultation with
dermatologists.
B. Distinguish between primary management of skin disorders and appropriate referral.
C. Support of the individual and family through consultation, evaluation and treatment.
D. Understand the psychosocial and economic impact of dermatological disease on the individual
and family and use of the health care system to assist as needed.
E. Learns most cost effective ways to manage dermatological conditions.
Learning Activities
Attending Rounds
X
Multidisciplinary Rounds
Grand Rounds
Sub-Specialty Conference
Morning Report
Didactics
Other
Evaluation Methods
X
Attending Evaluation
X
Program Dir
Review
X
360 ᵒ evaluation
Other
X
Research Conference
X
Outpatient Clinics
Ethics/Comm Conference
Specialty Conference
Noon Conference
Faculty Supervision
Procedures
X
Direct Patient care
Resident Seminar
Journal Club
Readings
Directly Supervised Procedures
In-Training Exam
X
X
Videotape Review
Morning Report
Faculty Supervision
and Feedback
Quarterly Review
Professionalism
Goal: Residents will demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence
to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population.
Objectives:
A. Demonstrate integrity, honesty, respect and a commitment to excellence in all activities
B. Demonstrate sensitivity, respect and adapt appropriately to the social and cultural issues of each
patient
C. Display initiative and resourcefulness in patient care and in solving problems.
D. Be timely in attendance of activities and completion of tasks.
Learning Activities
Attending Rounds
Multidisciplinary Rounds
Grand Rounds
Last Updated April 19, 2013
Research Conference
Ethics/Comm Conference
Specialty Conference
X
X
Outpatient Clinics
Direct Patient care
Resident Seminar
Sub-Specialty Conference
Morning Report
Didactics
Other:
Evaluation Methods
X
Attending Evaluation
X
Program Dir
Review
X
360 ᵒ evaluation
Other
X
X
Noon Conference
Faculty Supervision
Procedures
Journal Club
Readings
Directly Supervised Procedures
In-Training Exam
X
Videotape Review
X
Morning Report
Faculty Supervision
and Feedback
Quarterly Review
III. Instructional Strategies (see above)
A. This will be 1-month block rotation taught mostly through precepted patient care under the
supervision of a dermatologist(s). These will be complemented by didactic presentations on a
longitudinal basis.
B. Associated rotations: EM, FPC, Pediatrics, IM, FM, Urology, Gynecology, Rheumatology,
Geriatrics.
IV. Evaluation Strategies (see above)
V.
A.
Resident Evaluation:
1. The resident will receive a final evaluation, using the attached evaluation form.
2. At the midpoint of each rotation and frequently as possible throughout, the resident
should be given specific and instructive feedback in progress to include recommendations
for improvement and personal growth. If the resident does not receive this midpoint
evaluation, he/she should request it from the Dermatology preceptor.
B.
Rotation Evaluation:
1. The resident will provide written and verbal feedback to the Derm staff and to the FP
advisor at the end of the rotation.
2. If the resident finds that the rotation is not meeting stated objectives, both the Derm
staff and the FP liaison must be notified. This will allow time for corrections of deficiencies.
Implementation Methods
A.
Administrative Policies:
1.
Length of rotation: 1 month
2.
Location: 875 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30342
3.
Leave Policy: One-week allowed
B.
Dermatology Liaison: Dr. Calvin McCall (404) 616-4237
C.
Resident Responsibilities:
1. The resident interviews and examines clinic patients with a focused dermatologic
exam. The resident presents the case, the differential, and the treatment plan to the
dermatologist. The preceptor will examine the patient and add teaching points for
Last Updated April 19, 2013
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
VI.
each case. The resident works at his/her own pace. The more rashes seen, the more
learned.
Procedures are learned in the Derm clinic. The resident will be allowed to
work independently, after demonstrating technical competence in each procedure:
shave biopsy, excisional biopsy, cryotherapy, intralesional injection.
Spend 5 half-days per week in dermatology clinic and 4 half-days per week in
Family Practice Clinic.
Attend morning dermatologic conference on mornings when not in the Family
Practice Clinic.
Attend Family Practice morning report on mornings when in Family Practice
Clinic.
Perform Family Practice call.
Document all procedures and diagnoses managed
Actively seek feedback from preceptors.
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thur
Fri
AM
Clinic
Derm
Clinic
Didactics
Derm
PM
Clinic
Derm
Clinic
Derm
Derm
Suggested Readings/Resources
Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy by Habif. This may be
supplemented on an as-needed basis by articles suggested by the dermatology preceptor.
Weinstock M, et al. Basic Skin Cancer Triage for Teaching Melanoma Detection. Journal of the
American Academy of Dermatology. 34(6):1063-11)66, 1996
Anonymous. Conditions of the Skin: Recommended Core Educational Guideline for Family Practice
Residents. American Family Physician. 49(5):1253-1,'),56, 1994
O'Brien J. Common Skin Problems of Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence. Primary Car @,
22(l):99-115, 1995
Fleischer A, Feldman S, McConnell C. The Most Common Dermatologic Problems Identified by
Family Physicians, 1990-1994. Family Medicine, 29i,9):648-652, 1997.
Online Resources
American Academy of Dermatology http://www.aad.org/education-and-quality-care/medicalstudent-core-curriculum : Online core curriculum for dermatology
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1130419-overview#aw2aab6b4: Extremely
comprehensive and updated list of Dermatology sites.
Electronic Textbook of Dermatology: http://www.telemedicine.org/stamford.htm
Image Databases
Dermatlas: http://dermatlas.med.jhmi.edu/derm
Dermatologic Image Database: The University of Iowa College of Medicine's Department of
Dermatology includes many excellent low-resolution images.
Last Updated April 19, 2013
Dermatology Internet Service (DermIS): http://www.dermis.net/dermisroot/en/home/index.htm
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology
http://www.aocd.org
AFP Monographs
Skin Disorders Update (#346) March 2008
Last Updated April 19, 2013