Should Non-Physicians Perform Cosmetic Procedures?

Practice Models and Roles of Physician Extenders in Dermatologic Surgery

“…The increasing reliance upon PEs in cosmetic and surgical procedures has raised the concern of many dermatologists and patient advocacy groups about the appropriate level of training and supervision for PEs. [1][2][3]6 The AAD survey data reported herein suggest intrinsic differences between MMSFT surgeons and NMMSFT surgeons in both practice models and use of PEs in cosmetic and noncosmetic surgical procedures. Further workforce studies are needed to assess the level of autonomy and supervision of PEs in dermatologic surgery practices of MMSFT and NMMSFT practices.…”

“…T he increased prevalence of nonphysician and nondermatologist physician providers in the delivery of U.S. dermatologic health care has been documented in a number of recent workforce studies. [1][2][3][4] The number of physician extenders (PEs), including physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), has grown exponentially in dermatology over the last decade, given higher reimbursement levels for extenders in dermatology than in other specialties, patient demand for dermatologic health care, and the overall shortage of dermatologist physicians. PAs and NPs specializing in dermatology have no specific training or certification requirements, and the Society for Dermatologic Physician Assistants attests that ''PAs can be trained on the job in Dermatology practices within 2 to 3 months to see patients and assist with and perform basic cosmetic and surgical procedures with limited physician oversight.''…”