Needs and Gaps in Resident Trainee Education, Clinical Patient Care, and Clinical Research in Cosmetic Dermatology: Position Statement of the Association of Academic Cosmetic Dermatology

Cosmetic dermatology is a key subspecialty of academic dermatology. As such, academic centers are expected to demonstrate excellence in the teaching of cosmetic dermatology skills to trainees, the clinical delivery of cosmetic dermatology services to patients, and the performance of clinical research that advances knowledge and uncovers new therapies in cosmetic dermatology. The Association of Academic Cosmetic Dermatology (AACD), a newly formed medical professional society, includes as its principal aims the support of all of these areas. AACD is comprised of group of board-certified dermatologists who teach cosmetic and laser dermatology at US dermatology residency programs. An expert panel constituted by the AACD recently convened a workshop to review gaps pertaining to academic cosmetic dermatology. This panel considered needs and potential corrective initiatives in three domains: resident education, patient experience, and clinical research. The work of the panel was used to develop a roadmap, which was adopted by consensus, and which will serve to guide the AACD moving forward.