The demand for dermatologic care throughout the United States has increased due to a variety of reasons, including increased life expectancy, a higher incidence of skin cancer and complex inflammatory skin disorders, and a growing market for surgical and non-invasive dermatology procedures.

“Research shows that dermatologists tend to be concentrated in cities and there is a shortage of these specialists in rural areas, but little is known about trends over time,” explains Hao Feng, MD, MHS. “A better understanding of these trends is needed to address workforce disparities that can negatively affect outcomes for patients living in underserved areas.”