Dermatologists for children diagnose and treat both chronic and acute skin conditions. Professionals are well-versed in the effects of infections and common illnesses on infants, children, and adolescents. To become a pediatric dermatologist, a person must first complete medical school and then complete up to six years of residency and fellowship training. A pediatric dermatologist can work in a children’s hospital, a joint dermatology practice, or a private practice after completing the necessary training and passing national certification exams.
A four-year bachelor’s degree in biology or health can help you prepare for medical school. Most accredited universities allow future doctors to concentrate on premedical studies while still in school. Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, math, and developmental psychology classes can help a student who wants to become a pediatric dermatologist in the future. Science lab classes are important because they can give students an idea of the type of research they will do in medical school.
While pursuing their degrees, many undergraduates interested in medical careers apply for internships and paid entry-level positions. In fact, medical schools often place a high value on applicants who have worked with doctors and patients in the past. In the last two years of a bachelor’s program, a student can take a national admissions test and start sending in application materials.
Typically, medical school lasts four years, during which time students attend classes, participate in lab research, and intern at local hospitals and clinics. A student interested in pursuing a career as a pediatric dermatologist can meet with professors and academic advisers to determine which classes will best prepare him or her for that path. Internships allow students to observe and assist physicians in a variety of specialties, allowing them to gain a better understanding of the profession.
After graduation, a person can apply for a three- to four-year dermatology residency program. A resident continues to attend classes and supervises direct patient contact. He or she gains valuable hands-on experience using dermatology equipment and learning how to treat a variety of skin conditions. Following their residencies, many doctors take exams and enter general practices, but a pediatric dermatologist typically needs to complete an additional two years of fellowship training.
A fellowship in pediatric dermatology can take place in a hospital or a small practice. Under the guidance and supervision of established doctors, an individual has the opportunity to treat a large number of young patients. He or she learns about childhood disorders and how skin problems affect children differently than they do adults. A new doctor can take a national exam to earn board certification and the right to work independently after receiving the necessary training and knowledge.