Why Dermatology?

It’s challenging. Maybe it’s from working in the ER or as an EMT or in remote South American villages, but I want to be in a field where I work day-to-day with a wide range of complex problems.

Patient impact. The skin is the largest and most visible organ. A dermatologist can not only provide life-saving care by treating serious conditions like melanomas or rare skin diseases, but can also improve patients’ overall health, confidence and happiness by treating conditions that aren’t so easily concealed.

Lifelong learning. All doctors have to commit to lifelong learning, but dermatology is a complex specialty. Skin conditions can be the manifestation of many different underlying conditions, and many lack research. These are the kind of challenges I find intimidating, but rewarding.

Daniel Paul Ashley is smiling in the center of a group of people. They are all wearing medical scrubs. In front of them is a table covered in medical supplies and equipment.