Clinical and Conference Insights from a Dermatology PA Leader

In a recent interview with Dermatology Times, Jamie Restivo, PA-C, a board-certified dermatology physician assistant and current president of the Pennsylvania Dermatology Physician Assistants (PDPA), offered a wide-ranging perspective on the evolving landscape of dermatologic care, continuing education, and systemic challenges within the field.

Restivo emphasized the multifaceted benefits of dermatology conferences, particularly the DermSquared Fall Clinical PA/NP meeting. She highlighted how such gatherings serve not only as platforms for clinical education, but also as opportunities to strengthen professional networks and assess the current state of the specialty. According to Restivo, these meetings provide comprehensive learning opportunities across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, with the added value of emerging topics such as academic writing and professional development. She noted that staying abreast of novel therapeutics is crucial for ensuring optimal patient care, and expressed concern for providers who may fall behind current standards due to lack of exposure to recent advancements.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of continual learning and the need to address deficits in education, particularly regarding underrepresented or emerging dermatologic conditions. Restivo drew attention to diseases such as lichen sclerosus, generalized lichen planus, and frontal fibrosing alopecia, where therapeutic innovation has lagged behind that seen in more common conditions like psoriasis or atopic dermatitis.

The interview also touched on broader systemic issues affecting all dermatology clinicians. Restivo expressed concern over the financial pressures resulting from stagnant reimbursements and increasing operational costs. She argued that this economic strain forces clinicians to increase patient volumes, potentially compromising the quality of care and contributing to widespread burnout—a concern relevant across physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, and support staff alike. The resulting attrition from the health care workforce, she warned, could have long-term consequences for patient access and safety.

Looking ahead, Restivo was optimistic about the promise of personalized medicine and artificial intelligence (AI). She discussed the potential of molecular diagnostics and genomic profiling to match patients with targeted therapies—particularly in complex conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Restivo also highlighted AI's potential to reduce administrative burdens, such as insurance documentation, freeing up time for direct patient care.

In conclusion, Restivo framed the current moment in dermatology as both promising and challenging. The specialty is experiencing a rapid expansion of therapeutic options and technological tools, yet still contends with significant systemic and clinical gaps. Her insights underscore the need for continued investment in education, advocacy, and innovation to ensure the specialty evolves in a way that ultimately benefits both providers and patients.

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