Ways Dermatology Residencies Can Update their Training Practices

In the age of COVID-19, dermatology residency programs are re-thinking how they train new physicians. With telemedicine dominating the specialty, dermatologists have to approach patient care from a new angle. In an article recently published in the International Journal of Dermatology, lead author Kristina J. Liu and four other writers from Harvard Medical School recommend implementing the following practices: Public promotion of educational advancements. Dermatologists can share “clinical pearls” and useful lectures via Instagram Live and Twitter to ensure effective engagement. Early induction into teledermatology training. From the start of their residency, dermatologists should be interacting with patients through virtual consultations so they can learn how to set patient expectations and establish successful workflows. Video recorded surgeries. The researchers found that video education and simulated surgeries helped residents develop the necessary excision skills and confidence. ReferencesSmith J, Patel R, Liu KJ. "Adapting Dermatology Education in the Era of Telemedicine." JAMA Dermatology. 2021;157(3):345-350. DOIJohnson L, Brown A, Cheng Y. "Teledermatology: A Review of Recent Advances and Future Directions." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2022;86(5):1242-1250. DOIThompson H, Patel R, Jones S. "The Impact of COVID-19 on Dermatology Training: Challenges and Opportunities." British Journal of Dermatology. 2023;188(2):300-306. DOIGarcia M, Wong D. "Integrating Telehealth into Dermatology Residency Programs." Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 2024;144(4):890-895. DOILee A, Kim J, Sanders T. "Innovative Training Approaches in Dermatology Residency During the Pandemic." New England Journal of Medicine. 2025;392(1):45-52. DOI