From the Clinic to the Skin: A Comprehensive Model for Managing Dermatologic Conditions in Family and Internal Medicine

Abstract

Patients often appear with a variety of skin-related problems, making dermatologologic diseases a prominent concern in both internal medicine and family medicine settings. Many medical specialists in these fields, however, believe they are not adequately equipped to handle dermatological diseases beyond basic treatment. This paper proposes a comprehensive, integrated model for managing dermatologic conditions within the framework of family and internal medicine. By examining the interplay between clinical skills, early diagnosis, preventative care, and interdisciplinary collaboration, we argue that family physicians and internists are uniquely positioned to manage a broad spectrum of dermatologic conditions. This model emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, leveraging both clinical expertise and available dermatologic resources to optimize outcomes.