Public Perception of Dermatologists: A Single Center Surveillance.
- Author:
Joon Bum LEE
1
;
Byung Ho OH
;
Young Wook RYOO
;
Sung Ae KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Korea. skksasf@dsmc.or.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Dermatologist;
Non-dermatologist;
Perception;
Questionnaire
- MeSH:
Diagnosis;
Humans;
Licensure;
Skin;
Surveys and Questionnaires
- From:Korean Journal of Dermatology
2017;55(8):483-489
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Currently, physicians from different medical specialties treat patients' skin conditions, especially for cosmetic purposes. Although diagnosis and treatment made by non-dermatologists may sometimes be improper, many patients are unable to distinguish a non-dermatologist from a dermatologist. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate public's perception of dermatologists. METHODS: A total of 515 participants completed the online survey. The questionnaire consisted of three main parts: information regarding respondents, experience of dermatological treatments, and awareness of skin treatments performed by dermatologists, and by medical specialties. RESULTS: Overall, 48% of respondents were unable to distinguish a dermatologist from a non-dermatologist; however, 93% of respondents responded that they were willing to visit a dermatologist for treatment. A fair number of respondents identified dermatologists by signboards, professional biographies, and licenses. However, some non-dermatologists' signboards and biographies were considered misleading and confused patients. CONCLUSION: Many patients intend to visit a dermatologist for their dermatological treatments. However, half could not distinguish dermatologists from non-dermatologists. For this reason, we underline the importance of increasing public awareness of the dermatologist's expertise in helping patients in choosing their clinics.
