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Marie Bosslett is the assistant editor of 

 and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in October 2024. She attended Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with minors in marketing and writing. When she’s not writing, Marie enjoys going to concerts, reading on the beach, and spending time with friends and family.

Articles

Catch up on coverage from the second day of the 2025 Elevate-Derm Summer Conference held in Park City, Utah.

Day 2 Recap: Elevate-Derm Summer Conference 2025

Ata Moshiri, MD, MPH, FAAD, spoke about pathology interpretation and patient communication at Elevate-Derm Summer 2025, enhancing skin cancer diagnosis.

Insights on Pathology, Biopsy, and Patient Understanding

Maddi Hebebrand is an associate editor of 

and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in May 2024. She attended Baldwin Wallace University, studying Media Production and Film, and received her Masters in Digital Media from Ohio University. When she's not writing, Maddi loves to read, attend concerts and spend time with her family. 

Catch up on coverage from the second day of the 50th Annual Society for Pediatric Dermatology Meeting in Seattle, Washington.

Day 2 Recap: 50th Annual SPD Dermatology Conference 2025

DERM 2025 featured tips and tricks for a thorough pruritus diagnosis and treatment strategy from Adam Friedman, MD.  

Scratching the Itch of Pruritus With Adam Friedman, MD

Dermatology Times connects dermatology professionals with key skin disorder coverage, therapeutic strategies, clinical trial updates, and expert insights.

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Clinical

This episode of The Cutaneous Connection podcast dives into the aesthetic industry, highlighting stackable aesthetic treatments, how the aesthetic world has changed in the last 10 years, and how allied health care workers should be utilized in the practice. 

The Cutaneous Connection: Diving Into the Aesthetics Industry

Although bimekizumab carries a precaution for suicidal ideation and behavior, current data suggest it may improve mental health outcomes for patients with psoriasis. 

Beyond the Label: Evaluating Bimekizumab’s Mental Health Profile in Psoriasis Treatment

Jamie Restivo, MPAS, PA-C, shares her key takeaways from the final day of the recent Fall Clinical PA/NP Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Clinical Pearls from the 2025 Fall Clinical PA/NP Meeting: Day 3

Jamie Restivo, MPAS, PA-C, shares her key takeaways from the second day of the recent Fall Clinical PA/NP Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Clinical Pearls from the 2025 Fall Clinical PA/NP Meeting: Day 2 

Jamie Restivo, MPAS, PA-C, shares her key takeaways from the first day of the recent Fall Clinical PA/NP Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Clinical Pearls from the 2025 Fall Clinical PA/NP Meeting: Day 1

Catch up on coverage from the last day of the 2025 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference for PAs and NPs held in Orlando, Florida.

Day 4 Recap: Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference for PAs and NPs 2025

Tristan Hasbargen, PA-C, led a hands-on suturing workshop at the Fall Clinical NP/PA Conference, enhancing skills in surgical dermatology.

Tristan Hasbargen, PA-C, Builds Surgical Skills and Support at Fall Clinical PA/NP

Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference for PAs and NPs in Orlando, Florida

, Tristan Hasbargen, PA-C, who has been practicing dermatology for 13 years at Dermatology Associates in Tallahassee, Florida, led a surgical workshop titled “Suture Self.” The 2-hour session focused on practical, hands-on training in suturing techniques, drawing from Hasbargen’s extensive experience working with a Mohs surgeon. Key topics included basic and advanced suturing methods such as simple interrupted, cross mattress, figure-eight, vertical and horizontal mattress, and running locking sutures. He also covered more complex techniques like the running subcuticular stitch and Aberdeen knot. Special attention was given to handling delicate cases such as suturing elderly skin and preventing wound dehiscence using Steri-strips or Unna boots. The session also addressed antibiotic prophylaxis, common surgical complications, and patient-specific considerations such as smoking. Hasbargen was joined by Mohs surgeon, Harrison Nguyen, MD, MBA, MPH, and TJ Chao, PA-C, along with dermatology fellows from Darrell Riegel, MD’s program, making the session highly collaborative and engaging.

As an attendee, Hasbargen appreciates the format of the Fall Clinical PA/NP conference. He highlighted the short, focused lectures, which cater well to clinicians who prefer rapid-fire, high-yield learning like himself. He praised the quality and expertise of the speakers, including newer professionals like Curtis Chen, PA-C, who delivered a compelling session on being a hero for hidradenitis suppurativa. For Hasbargen, these sessions offer not only education but inspiration, as presenters share real-world clinical insights and trial experiences.

He also emphasized the importance of conferences like this for NPs and PAs, noting that they are tailored to the specific educational needs and challenges of these advanced practice providers. Beyond professional development, Hasbargen highlighted the value of networking, reconnecting with regular attendees, and building a supportive community. He described these events as places where attendees can both learn and feel supported, contributing to the overall advancement of the PA and NP roles in dermatology.

“It becomes a really big family,” Hasbargen said. “And I think that's really important in the community that we have people that we're surrounded by that encourage us and that want to uplift us and really elevate the career.”

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The recent Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference in Orlando featured a surgical workshop led by Tristan Hasbargen, PA-C, focusing on practical suturing techniques. The session covered both basic and advanced methods, addressing complex cases and surgical complications. Hasbargen emphasized the conference's format, which offers short, focused lectures ideal for rapid learning. He praised the expertise of speakers and highlighted the conference's role in professional development and community building for NPs and PAs. The event fosters networking and support, enhancing the roles of advanced practice providers in dermatology.

Heather Gates, PA-C, shares insights on the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and legislative reform for PAs and NPs in dermatology.

Empowerment, Education, and Advocacy for NPs and PAs

Heather Gates, PA-C, a presenter at this year’s 

, has been practicing dermatology for more than 15 years and is now at The Dermatology Institute and Skin Cancer Center in The Villages, Florida. Gates spoke to 

 about her passion for continued learning, professional support, and legislative reform in the physician associate (PA)/nurse practitioner (NP) space. First, she highlighted the immense value of attending PA/NP-focused dermatology meetings and conferences.

“You are learning from the best of the best,” Gates said, citing the presence of industry leaders like “the godfather of psoriasis,” Mark Lebwohl, MD, and even top PA/NP presenters. These events, she noted, provide opportunities to absorb cutting-edge knowledge and bring it back home to elevate patient care across diverse practice settings.

Beyond clinical education, Gates addressed a pressing issue facing advanced practice providers: legislative barriers. In many states, restrictive laws prevent PAs and NPs from practicing to the full extent of their training, which limits access to dermatologic care in underserved areas. She applauded the ongoing work of advocacy leaders, particularly Christina Clark, PA-C, of t

, who is spearheading efforts to eliminate outdated restrictions and improve access for patients in both rural and urban communities.

Gates also shared what she hopes more colleagues in the field understand about the PA role. Working collaboratively with 2 supportive physicians, she practices with significant autonomy and maintains her own patient panel. She values the partnership with her colleagues and stresses the importance of mentorship and support, especially within the PA/NP community.

Reflecting on her own journey, Gates emphasized the need for experienced clinicians to serve as resources for those early in their careers. Even after 15 years, Gates continues to make new connections at conferences, lift up her peers, and provide guidance as a mentor to early career physicians.

“It's really important, if you are newer in the field, to create that community to reach out to and work together and collaborate and help each other,” Gates said. “That's how I got to where I am now, so other people deserve that as well.”

Want to hear more from Gates and other conference presenters? Stay up to date with the latest insights by signing up to receive our 

Heather Gates, PA-C, emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional support in dermatology, particularly through PA/NP-focused conferences. She highlights the value of learning from industry leaders and the need to address legislative barriers that limit PAs and NPs from practicing fully. Gates advocates for mentorship and collaboration within the PA/NP community, stressing the importance of experienced clinicians guiding early-career professionals. She underscores the significance of building a supportive network to enhance patient care and professional growth in dermatology.

At the 10th Annual Fall Clinical PA/NP Conference in Orlando, Florida

, Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, clinical professor at New York University, adjunct clinical professor at UT Southwestern, and consultant dermatologist at Cooper Clinic in Dallas, presented a session titled “Real-World Data and Patient Perspectives: A Guide for PAs and NPs in Actinic Keratosis (AK) Care.” In his talk, Rigel shared practical, evidence-based strategies for improving AK treatment outcomes while enhancing the patient experience.

Discover innovative strategies for AK treatment from Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, enhancing patient care and outcomes at the latest Fall Clinical PA/NP conference.

Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, on Real-World Advancements in Actinic Keratosis Management

AKs are traditionally treated with cryosurgery and topical therapies like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). While effective, Rigel noted that 5-FU often causes intense skin reactions and significant downtime, prompting many patients to seek alternatives. Among newer treatments, tirbanibulin stood out in Rigel’s session for its efficacy and improved tolerability. It delivers the standard clearance rates of about 80% of lesions, with fewer adverse effects and quicker delivery. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for up to 100 cm² of skin, tirbanibulin offers a broader treatment area, making it ideal for full-face, forearm, or other large applications.

Rigel also addressed the ongoing debate around combination therapy: should clinicians freeze lesions before applying a topical agent or the other way around? Rigel referred to it as “a chicken or the egg problem.”

“The answer to that question is there's no right answer. It's a matter of style,” Rigel said. He personally prefers freezing first to target larger lesions before using topical therapy for residual areas.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) remains another valuable option. Rigel endorsed short-contact PDT, applying the photosensitizer and activating it shortly thereafter, as both effective and far less painful than older protocols requiring long incubation times. No matter what methods are used, he emphasized proactive, annual AK treatments, even for patients with no visible lesions, to help prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma.

“The whole management of AKs are really very dynamic. It's changing, but these new approaches really make a difference and make it better for your patients too,” Rigel told 

Looking for more conference coverage from industry leaders like Rigel? Check out our 

 page to stay in the loop with what’s new and improved in dermatology.

Darrell Rigel, MD, presented strategies for improving actinic keratosis (AK) treatment outcomes at a conference, emphasizing patient experience. Traditional treatments like cryosurgery and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are effective but can cause significant skin reactions. Rigel highlighted tirbanibulin for its efficacy and tolerability, offering broader treatment areas. He discussed the debate on combination therapy, suggesting freezing lesions before topical application. Rigel also endorsed short-contact photodynamic therapy (PDT) for its effectiveness and reduced pain. He stressed the importance of proactive, annual AK treatments to prevent progression to squamous cell carcinoma.

Discover innovative strategies for AK treatment from Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, at the latest Fall Clinical PA/NP conference.

, Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, clinical professor at New York University, adjunct clinical professor at UT Southwestern, and consultant dermatologist at Cooper Clinic in Dallas, delivered a seminar on the evolving role of gene expression profiling (GEP) in managing skin cancers, particularly melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. In his session, “Seminar-in-Depth: The Clinician’s Case-Based Guide to Gene Expression Profiling in Skin Cancer Management,” Rigel educated attendees on GEP testing’s growing role in modern skin cancer care for precise, personalized, and evidence-based disease management.

At this year's Fall Clinical PA/NP meeting, Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, spoke about the evolving role of GEP in managing melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

ene Expression Profiling as an Emerging Tool in Skin Cancer Management

Rigel emphasized the alarming rise in melanoma incidence in the U.S., with over 100,000 new cases of invasive melanoma expected this year alone. Traditional prognostic tools such as tumor thickness, ulceration, and sentinel lymph node status remain important, but Rigel highlighted the need for more precise and individualized risk assessment through GEP testing.

The 31-GEP test analyzes the expression of 31 genes to provide a prognosis and the likelihood of sentinel lymph node positivity. This allows clinicians to tailor follow-up intensity and consider advanced treatments earlier for higher-risk patients. Conversely, patients with better-than-expected prognoses may avoid unnecessary interventions. Currently, about 20,000 patients receive the 31-GEP test annually, prescribed by over 4,000 dermatology healthcare providers nationwide.

GEP also plays a pivotal role in guiding sentinel node biopsy decisions. For patients with low-risk (Class 1A) profiles, the test can spare them from undergoing unnecessary biopsies. Higher-risk (Class 2B) patients, on the other hand, can be confidently advised to proceed with the biopsy.

Rigel also highlighted expanding use of GEP testing in squamous cell carcinoma cases with higher-risk features. Rigel mentioned a recent study, which showed that patients with Class 2B results will benefit from adjuvant radiation therapy, while those with lower-risk profiles do not, offering a practical framework for therapy decisions.

“We're just scratching the surface with GEP testing. It's making a real difference in my management of skin cancer, especially for melanoma and squamous cell carcinomas,” Rigel concluded. “I think the use is really becoming broad-based to the point that to me, it's almost the best practices at this point to integrate this kind of approach in managing these patients.”

Gene expression profiling (GEP) is increasingly vital in managing skin cancers, particularly melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Traditional prognostic tools remain important, but GEP offers more precise, personalized risk assessments. The 31-GEP test analyzes gene expression to predict sentinel lymph node positivity, guiding treatment intensity and biopsy decisions. It helps avoid unnecessary interventions for low-risk patients and supports advanced treatments for high-risk cases. GEP's role is expanding in squamous cell carcinoma, aiding therapy decisions, such as adjuvant radiation for high-risk patients.

Gene Expression Profiling as an Emerging Tool in Skin Cancer Management

, Heather Gates, PA-C, a dermatology physician’s assistant from The Villages, Florida, shared her expertise on a timely and evolving topic: leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and social media to enhance clinical practice. With 15 years of experience in medical, surgical, cosmetic, and geriatric dermatology, Gates offered a blend of tech-savvy insights and real-world clinical relevance in her lecture.

In her presentation at Fall Clinical NP/PA, Heather Gates, PA-C, shared how professionals can enhance their practice using AI and social media, fostering authenticity and patient trust in a digital age.

Practical Strategies for Harnessing AI and Social Media in Dermatology

Dermatology is especially intertwined with social media, given the visual nature of skin health. According to Gates, having an ethical online presence builds trust and credibility among patients while allowing clinicians to showcase their expertise and share evidence-based information. This is particularly essential in a world dominated by unlicensed “skinfluencers.”

Gates further emphasized the importance of strategic content creation, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where engagement metrics can significantly impact visibility. She advised using compelling hooks to capture viewers’ attention in the critical first few seconds of a video, as well as incorporating relevant hashtags to improve reach. Gates also reminded attendees that relatability is key.

“You need to be authentic and humanize yourself,” she told Dermatology Times. “Looking at a picture-perfect Instagram gets a little bit boring after a while. Your patients want to see the ‘real you’ online, not the ‘fake you’ online.”

A highlight of her talk was the discussion on AI, specifically the practical and responsible use of ChatGPT in a clinical setting. Gates shared how she uses the tool to create patient handouts, educational materials, and even prep for interviews or summarize research studies. She described AI as a powerful “productivity hack,” helping to streamline administrative tasks and enhance patient communication. However, she cautioned against relying on AI as a substitute for clinical knowledge. Instead, it should be viewed as an assistant that enhances, rather than replaces, human expertise.

Throughout her informative session, Gates encouraged clinicians to embrace new technologies and platforms like Canva, VisualDx, and Otter.ai, while staying grounded in their training and personal voice. She encouraged attendees to network, follow each other, share tips, and build a community online, especially those who are looking to modernize their practices without compromising authenticity or clinical excellence. Overall, thoughtful, intentional use of social media and AI can not only elevate individual careers but also uphold the integrity and professionalism of dermatology as a whole, according to Gates.

Looking for more conference coverage from industry leaders like Gates? Check out our 

 page to stay in the loop with what's new and improved in dermatology.

Heather Gates, PA-C, shared insights on integrating AI and social media into dermatology practice at a recent conference. She emphasized the importance of maintaining an ethical online presence to build trust and credibility, especially in a field influenced by visual content. Gates highlighted strategic content creation on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, stressing authenticity and relatability. She discussed AI tools like ChatGPT for enhancing productivity but warned against over-reliance. Gates encouraged embracing technology while maintaining clinical excellence and authenticity to elevate careers and uphold dermatology's integrity.

, Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, a dermatology nurse practitioner at US Dermatology Partners and newly inducted president of the 

Society for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (SDNP),

 shared her commitment to expanding support and educational resources for dermatology NPs and PAs through the revamped SDNP.

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, is fostering community and collaboration for NPs and PAs as the new president of the SDNP.

SDNP President Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, on Empowering NPs Through Enhanced Support and Education

Caldwell is enthusiastic about increasing NP engagement in research and education through SDNP. The organization is actively developing partnerships with journals to help members navigate the process of publishing. With a dedicated team behind her, she encourages NPs to reach out and share their goals, interests, and dreams so the organization can provide guidance. In addition to research, SDNP is building out educational tools, including resources on textbooks, apps, and continuing education opportunities. A key initiative under her leadership is to modernize and humanize SDNP, emphasizing accessibility through social media, peer support, and a stronger digital presence.

She also highlights the welcoming, supportive nature of SDNP, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the organization and are considering getting involved. Having discovered SDNP only 3 years ago, Caldwell recalled how attending her first SDNP conference as an introverted newcomer inspired her to become a volunteer.

“I felt welcomed and at home. And I met so many wonderful people across the whole US that I keep in touch with,” she said. “And so instantly after that conference, I felt really empowered and said, ‘OK, I'm ready to change the world. What can I do?’”

Importantly, Caldwell emphasized that SDNP isn’t just for members. Free monthly webinars, open conference access, and strong interprofessional collaboration, including support from physicians, make the organization a valuable resource for NPs and PAs of any level. She believes that thanks to their nursing background, NPs bring a holistic, patient-centered approach to dermatology, which is particularly essential in underserved areas. Caldwell recognizes this and invites all NPs to get involved, take advantage of the resources, and find an empowered community of peers through SDNP.

“It's contagious, it's infectious, and so if you just give it a chance and see, I think we would have everyone hooked,” Caldwell concluded.

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, aims to enhance support and educational resources for dermatology nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) through the Society for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (SDNP). Her initiatives focus on increasing NP engagement in research, modernizing SDNP's digital presence, and fostering a welcoming community. SDNP offers free webinars, open conference access, and interprofessional collaboration, making it a valuable resource for NPs and PAs. Caldwell emphasizes the holistic, patient-centered approach NPs bring to dermatology, especially in underserved areas, and encourages involvement in SDNP.

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, is promoting accessibility, education, and relatability as the newly inducted president of the Society for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners.

From Patient to President: Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, And Her Journey with SDNP

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, a dermatology nurse practitioner at US Dermatology Partners, has recently stepped into her role as president of the 

Society for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (SDNP)

. With a passion for accessible health care and general dermatology, Caldwell brings both personal and professional motivation to her leadership. Having battled skin cancer at age 23, along with other dermatological conditions, her early experience with the specialty drove her commitment to dermatologic care. Caldwell’s vision as president centers on expanding access to high-quality education and career support, not just for nurse practitioners (NPs) but for physician assistants (PAs) as well.

“We're continuing to grow, and I want to be the home for NP dermatology practitioners, but also, we welcome our physician assistant friends too...we’re stronger together,” she emphasized.

Her team’s initiatives include offering free monthly webinars, comprehensive review courses, and new member engagement efforts as part of an SDNP rebrand. She is especially focused on listening to member needs and filling the gaps in the industry, whether it's helping find jobs, working with collaborators, or navigating practice authority.

Caldwell credits much of her professional growth to mentorship, particularly from Christy Parham, MD, MPH, MA, who encouraged her to become a provider, and Mark Fleischman, MD, FAAD, her collaborator at US Dermatology Partners. On a personal level, her mother remains a key source of inspiration. After the sudden loss of Caldwell’s father when she was 12 years old, her mother worked full time and earned a college degree while raising four children, instilling resilience and purpose in Caldwell’s journey.

Among the top issues facing dermatology NPs today, Caldwell identifies limited access to education, unequal pay, and difficulty finding employment in the specialty. She advocates for equal compensation, noting that many NPs practice independently in full practice authority states and manage complex conditions such as autoimmune diseases. Caldwell also aims to boost SDNP’s networking power to connect NPs with job opportunities. Through her leadership, SDNP hopes to reduce barriers and foster professional growth in dermatologic practice.

Above all, she is focused on building a supportive, inclusive home for dermatology NPs and PAs.
“To me, especially with patients and even myself, I think being relatable is important,” Caldwell said. “We're in this world together. Let's help each other out, and if someone knows I've kind of walked in their shoes, it definitely helps build some trust.”

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C, has assumed the presidency of the Society for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (SDNP), driven by her personal and professional experiences in dermatology. Her leadership aims to enhance access to education and career support for nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs). Initiatives include free webinars, review courses, and member engagement efforts. Caldwell emphasizes mentorship and aims to address challenges like limited education access, unequal pay, and employment difficulties. Her vision is to create a supportive, inclusive community for dermatology NPs and PAs.

andrew baker, sdpa, society of dermatology physician assistants

Andrew Baker Shares Vision for SDPA Leadership

, Andrew Baker, MBA, MPAS, PA-C, shared his professional insights and aspirations as he steps into the role of president-elect of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA). A practicing physician assistant based in Columbus, Ohio, Baker brings over a decade of dermatological experience to his leadership position, with a deep-rooted commitment to patient care, collaboration, and professional development.

Baker, currently affiliated with Docs Dermatology (Dermatologists of Central States), emphasized several key initiatives he aims to prioritize during his tenure. At the forefront is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into dermatological practice. He acknowledged the rapid pace of AI development and shared how his current practice has implemented an AI-based prior authorization platform. While recognizing that AI often carries buzzword status without tangible implementation, Baker views it as a tool for streamlining diagnostics and enhancing care delivery, particularly in managing skin cancer and inflammatory skin conditions.

Another cornerstone of Baker’s vision involves strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration among physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and physicians. He noted that enhancing communication and teamwork within healthcare is critical to improving patient outcomes. His commitment to holistic, team-based care reflects a broader trend in medicine toward integrated treatment models.

Baker also identified the need for ongoing advocacy around reimbursement issues. With shifting insurance policies and inconsistent compensation structures for PAs, he highlighted the importance of parity in reimbursement and SDPA’s active role in lobbying for fair recognition and pay for advanced practice providers.

Mentorship and inspiration play a significant role in Baker’s career trajectory. He credited numerous influential figures—including Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C; Laura Bush, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA; and Matthew Brunner MHS, PA-C, DFAAPA—for shaping his professional path and leadership aspirations. These individuals demonstrated exemplary commitment to patient care and education, which Baker aims to emulate.

He further encouraged participation in clinical research, drawing from his own experience launching trials as a principal investigator in private practice. He believes that as more seasoned PAs enter dermatology, their involvement in research will enrich the field’s evidence base and clinical innovation.

Ultimately, Baker advocates for deeper engagement with SDPA, citing its diverse opportunities—from monthly volunteer commitments to national leadership roles—as pivotal to both personal growth and professional advancement. His message to colleagues is clear: involvement in SDPA is both an avenue for meaningful contribution and a source of professional fulfillment.

Andrew Baker, the president-elect of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, emphasizes integrating AI in dermatology, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing reimbursement issues. With over a decade of experience, he aims to streamline diagnostics and improve patient care through AI, particularly for skin cancer and inflammatory conditions. Baker also stresses the importance of mentorship, inspired by influential figures in his career, and encourages participation in clinical research. He advocates for active engagement with SDPA, highlighting its role in professional growth and contribution to the field.

Strengthening interdisciplinary relationships remains a central part of Baker’s focus.

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