Are you aware of the common ethical challenges that the Dermatology field faces?

This is not a trick question because there are indeed some very unique ethical dilemmas that Dermatologists face daily in practice. While you likely know some of these challenges, it is a good idea to research and do some reading before your interview so you can come to this interview and speak confidently. Some common ethical challenges include the fact that a lot of work will be done on patients seeking improvements in physical appearance and dispensing so-called cosmeceuticals to patients.

"Any time elective procedures are brought into play, that can raise some ethical red flags. For Dermatologists, this is enhanced for patients seeking elective procedures to improve their appearance. I believe beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, and if the patient is making a sound choice for themselves, their confidence, and their well-being, I am willing to help them through safe and effective modern medicine."

"There may be some ethical challenges with regards to providing elective cosmetic procedures and treatments in dermatology. In particular, care must be taken to ensure patients may not have underlying psychiatric comorbidities such as body dysmorphic disorder. While there may be monetary incentive for dermatologists to go ahead with procedures, care must be taken to select a patient population that understands procedure risks and realistic outcomes. I hope to address such concerns by performing a thorough history and exam on all my patients, including screening them for their motivations and desired outcomes from cosmetic procedures, and to defer treatment and connect patients to any care they may need if there are concerns."