A dermatologist, affably known as a skin doctor, is among the most lucrative professions presently, and there are reasons behind such success. One of the main reasons behind the rise is the ever-growing love for one’s skin. Skin is among the most visible and sensitive parts of our body, and, therefore, it is important that we take good care of skin. This is where dermatologist comes in and provides solutions to various skin ailments and advises on ensuring a bright and impeccable skin—something which everyone dearly loves and would be willing to shell money to ensure the same.
Freelance dermatology is becoming quite prevalent in the contemporary world, and one can find ample opportunities to kick-start his or her career in dermatology as a freelancer. There are, however, a few considerations which are to be essentially studied and worked upon to get the best out of the freelance world. In this article, we shall talk about those really important factors that determine one’s success in the freelance dermatology.
1. Job Requirements
You cannot simply claim to be a freelance dermatologist without any academic qualifications. You will be a quack—nothing more, nothing less. The freelance community is as competitive as any other, and you must not expect a relaxed environment for participants. The clients want the best, and you must deliver to them the best.
The question is: How to do that? Well, read the following carefully.
- In order to become a freelance dermatologist, you must possess an MBBS degree from a recognized university or college in India or abroad. Following the successful completion of the MBBS course, candidates have to enroll themselves to M.D. in Dermatology, which is essentially a Master’s degree in the field of Dermatology. A Master’s in dermatology is absolutely essential for you to become a dermatologist.
- There are a number of examinations for the above course such as All India Post Graduate Medical/Dental Entrance Examination, Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research and Research Entrance Exam. MD entrance examinations are among the toughest examinations in the country, and therefore, there is immense repute associated with it.
- There are some institutes, which admit students on the basis of the MBBS scores.
- Upon the completion of MD course, one major task remains whose fulfillment is absolutely required. One has to get himself or herself registration from the Medical Council of India. Once registered, you are legally authorized to practice as a dermatologist.
- MD courses are offered by a number of institutes—most of them are subject to the high regard and academic excellence. Some of these institutes include All India Institute of Medical Sciences (famously known by its acronym AIIMS), Armed Forces Medical College, Kasturba Medical College, Lady Hardinge Medical College, Madras Medical College, King George’s Medical University, Osmania Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, etc.
- If you plan to pursue an MD course from outside the country, then you can go to colleges such as Yale University, University College London, Karolinska Institute, University of Cambridge, Harvard University etc.
2. Skills Required
Dermatologists deal with a sensitive body organ, skin, and it has to be handled with utmost care. There are, therefore, a number of skills which you, as a freelance dermatologist, must possess. These skills are in high demand in the freelance community, and you must take each one of them pretty seriously.
- Ability to apply acquired knowledge: Gaining theoretical knowledge will not suffice if you are unable to put that knowledge into practical use. We are talking about experience, and experience can only be gained if one engages in it frequently.
- Patience: A dermatologist is basically a doctor, and a doctor must be patient enough to allow patients to adequately explain their issues. As a dermatologist, you must carefully address the patient’s problems and provide pertinent solutions.
- Skilled with equipment: A dermatologist must be able to adeptly perform procedures such as cryotherapy, biopsies, removal of skin, etc.
- A dermatologist must be thoroughly acquainted with the subcutaneous and skin anatomy, clinical pharmacology, basic radiation physics, basic immunology, basic laser physics, cutaneous microanatomy, biology, etc.
- Communication skills: A dermatologist must be able to communicate his analysis of the problem to the patient in a simple and unambiguous manner.
3. Where can you work?
There is a number of work opportunities you can avail of. Some of them have been mentioned below:
- As a freelance dermatologist, you can start running your clinic. Dermatologists are usually engaged in private practices, whether in individual or group practices.
- You can provide freelancing services to hospitals. You may provide services in the emergency room or any other unit, as the hospital authority deems fit.
- A dermatologist may engage in academia. Medical schools often recruit freelance dermatologist for providing lectures to students.
- You can apply to laboratories for the post of a freelance dermatologist. These dermatologists are engaged in the development of creams and medications for various skin conditions such as wrinkles, age spots, disfiguring rosacea.
- There are a number of freelance websites which offer a common platform for clients and freelancers to work together. All you need to do is create a profile, upload a portfolio of skills, and apply to job openings. When you apply, submit a well-drafted proposal laying down the reasons for applying and why you are most suitable for the job applied. Such websites include worknhire.com, upwork.com, freelance.com, guru.com, linkedin.com.
4. Pay scale
The pay rate for a freelance dermatologist has much to do with the qualifications, skills, and experience. Thus, there are varying pay rates in the community of freelance dermatologists.
If you are a well-qualified and highly experienced dermatologist, you can claim a high pay rate on an hourly basis. In case you a beginner but with amazing qualifications from a reputed institute, then you may charge as much as an experienced dermatologist; however, if you lack in both, then there is no place for you here.
In order to know more about the pay scale, join forums and online groups. These forums will help you establish connections with a bigger world, and this will help you further professional interests.
