How to Find a Dermatologist to Treat Acne
Finding a dermatologist to help you win the war against blackheads and pimples requires research, recommendations and a plan. While acne management methods vary, from length of treatment to type of medication used, a dermatologist is a trusted partner in keeping your skin blemish-free. Whether you are a teenager with whiteheads or a middle-aged woman fighting flare-ups, the best dermatologist to treat acne will provide an effective treatment regimen that is sensitive to your lifestyle, medical history and specific type of acne. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Referrals from your primary care physician
- List of dermatologists in your medical insurance provider network
- Journal
Instructions
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Ask for a referral from your primary care physician. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), "40 to 50 million Americans are affected by acne. It is the most common skin disorder in the United States" A dermatologist specializes in treating and diagnosing skin disorders. Because medical doctors classify acne in four grades (using the Pillsbury Classification method), your family physician will have a recommendation of two to three professionals to treat your specific type of acne.
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Review your health insurance plan for recommended doctors within your preferred provider network. While insurance plans usually cover acne treatments and medications, a recommended physician may not be a member of your medical insurance network. Call your insurance provider to determine the number of dermatology specialists available in your area before scheduling an appointment.
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Visit the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) for a list of acne practitioners in your city. Founded in 1938, the AAD represents more than 16,000 physicians worldwide. Search the AAD database by state, city, zip code or area code to find a board certified dermatologist to treat your acne.
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Keep an acne journal. Write notes in a journal to present a quick history of your acne flare-ups and eating habits to each dermatologist you interview. Two weeks before your initial dermatology consultation, use this journal to capture your daily eating schedule, places on your body where you normally see breakouts, and any other information that may pertain to your acne condition.
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Set up free consultations with your top three dermatology practitioners. Inquire about the specific methods used in your dermatologist's acne treatment plan. Ask the dermatologist questions about his qualifications and specific experience treating acne. Discuss with each dermatologist the information found in your acne journal. Review before and after pictures of successful acne treatments methods prescribed by the dermatologist for current and former patients.
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Assess your compatibility with the doctor's personality and treatment methodologies. It is important to feel comfortable with the acne treatment methods and medical advice prescribed by the dermatologist. During these consultations, determine whether you can build a genuine rapport with the practitioner. Arrive at the doctor's office 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment to talk to other patients and the medical staff about the doctor's treatment success rate and rapport with his clients.
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Tips & Warnings
Health insurance companies divide prescription medications into three tiers: generics, preferred medications and non-preferred medications. Your co-pay will rise or fall based on the type of acne medication recommended by your physician. If your medication is too expensive, ask your physician for a recommendation that is in a lower tier to treat your acne.
