Analysis of Trends in Geographic Distribution of US Dermatology Workforce Density

Abstract

The number of dermatology providers practicing per 100 000 people in each 3-digit postal section code is indicated by the colors on the map. Section codes without a dermatology provider are included in white. Note that the Great Lakes are included in US section coding and do not appear on the map.

Geographic Distribution of Nonphysician Clinicians Who Independently Billed Medicare for Common Dermatologic Services in 2014

“…7,8 Increasing the number and use of NPCs has been proposed as a possible solution for physician shortages and maldistribution, including within dermatology. 4,9,10 While the original intent of NPCs was to provide expanded access to primary care, it is becoming increasingly common for NPCs to offer specialty care services. 11,12 In fact, the proportion of PAs reporting primary care practice has steadily decreased from 50% in 1997 to 30% in 2013.…”

Demographics and spatial distribution of the Brazilian dermatologists

“…The demand of the population for dermatological assistance is not well-defined and varies between countries, according to structures of health services and the type of service provided. 1 - 3 Brazilian public health system (SUS) functions with a professional planning of 0.12/10,000 dermatologists/inhabitants with the goal of meeting the secondary demand in general dermatology and leprology. Stratified, high quality public health systems such as in England function with an expectancy of 0.1/10,000 inhabitants.…”

“…In the USA, there is some consensus regarding the density of 1 dermatologist for every 25,000 inhabitants (0.4/10,000 inhabitants). 1 , 2 …”

Perception of dermatology by medical students

“…

A dearth of trained dermatologists is observed in most western countries, with a consequent need to assess the factors responsible for this inadequate supply [1][2][3] . Although various aspects infl uence the career decisions of medical students, the perception of different specialties is of particular importance [ 4 ] .

…”