Meet the Team Behind Your Care

There are two ways to achieve the title of doctor and practice medicine. One can become a medical doctor (MD) or a doctor of osteopathy (DO). Both licenses allow one to practice medicine and have equally rigorous testing. The differences between an M.D. and a D.O. lie primarily in philosophy on how to practice medicine.

Both M.D.s and D.O.s tend to begin training by getting a four-year undergraduate degree, either in pre-med, or in a related science field. Each type of doctor will then complete four years of training before taking examinations that will result in licensure. Either type of doctor may then choose to specialize in a particular field and study for two to six more years. The doctor who specializes will then take further examinations to be licensed by the board of his or her specialty.

In most cases, the four years of medical school are quite similar. However the D.O. receives training in the muscular and skeletal system, and also in muscular and skeletal manipulation. A doctor who is a D.O. tends to evaluate a person’s health in terms of viewing the body as a complex related network. Any disease affects the whole body. The M.D., conversely, may evaluate the disease in terms of how it affects certain parts of the body only.

After a doctor completes his or her training in Dermatology, a board exam is taken. This is a way for the AAD to standardize information to assure that the Dermatologist has a basic understanding of all diseases of the skin, hair, and nails and is competent to practice.

In most cases, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment. However, some insurance plans may require one, so we recommend checking with your provider before your visit.

During your first visit, your provider will review your medical history, discuss your concerns, and perform a thorough skin evaluation. Based on your needs, they will recommend a personalized treatment plan or next steps.