How can I tell if a - dermatologist near me focuses on medical dermatology?

[EthanFP]

I'm trying to find a dermatologist near me for a skin check, but I'm noticing many clinics seem to focus heavily on cosmetic procedures. I want someone who prioritizes medical dermatology and will take the time for a thorough exam. How can you tell if a practice is more medically oriented versus primarily cosmetic before you book an appointment?

[Jacob.T]

Look for a dermatologist who clearly emphasizes medical dermatology over cosmetic work The clinic should offer skin cancer screening mole mapping and biopsy capabilities If the site leans hard into cosmetic services ask which doctors handle medical issues and whether you can book a longer exam for a full body check

[GeorgeS]

Read the doctors bios for real credentials Check board certification in dermatology and any fellowship in medical dermatology or skin cancer That tells you they are trained to handle suspicious lesions as well as routine care

[ThomasH]

Go to the first visit with a short list of questions and focus on how they approach suspicious lesions Do they describe a standard workflow for mole checks and biopsies and how they communicate risk and next steps If the clinic shows too many before and after cosmetic photos you may be in the wrong place

[BrianHG]

Ask about visit length and how they balance medical care with patient education If you get rushed during a lesion check you should consider another clinic and see if you can schedule more time or a specialist nurse as part of the visit

[Jeffrey.M]

Call or email ahead to confirm medical focus Costs and insurance can vary Find out what counts as a medical visit for your plan and what the typical out of pocket cost is for a skin check If the responses feel murky you may want to search for best dermatologist near me 2025