Primary Care Providers' Perspectives on Pediatric Dermatology Care in a Rural, Underserved Region of California.

Abstract

This study aims to assess perspectives on pediatric dermatology care in an underserved, rural region of California using semi-structured interviews with 13 PCPs with experience in the Central Valley of California. Most participants reported a high need for pediatric dermatologists in this rural region and had differing strategies for addressing gaps resulting from this workforce shortage. Participants also noted numerous barriers and challenges facing patient families, including lack of adequate transportation, language barriers, knowledge gaps, and financial burden. The findings of our study demonstrate strategies most useful to rural PCPs in caring for pediatric dermatology patients, which can inform efforts to enhance health equity given the near absence of pediatric dermatologists practicing in these regions.