A Reply to ‘Comment on “The Doctors' Perception of Skin Diseases in General Practice in Denmark, With Emphasis on Atopic Dermatitis—A Descriptive Study”—The Irish Experience’ by Wolinska et al. Dermatology Training in General Practice—A Pan-European Challenge?

Abstract

We read the letter from Wolinska et al. with great interest and thank them for their insightful comment. The letter emphasizes the need for enhanced dermatological training for general practitioners (GPs), a necessity highlighted in our study and supported by findings across the literature [1-3]. The critical question is how best to implement this training: Should it involve online modules, in-person courses, clinical rotations in dermatology departments, expanded medical school curricula or other methods? Addressing this need effectively invites international collaboration among countries with healthcare systems in which GPs act as gatekeepers, encountering a high volume of patients with skin symptoms and diseases. Such collaboration can help develop the most effective and practical educational strategies.

In reference to Wolinska et al.'s study, a noteworthy point is raised regarding confidence in diagnosing atopic dermatitis in patients with skin of colour (SoC) [2]. Only 29% of respondents felt confident diagnosing atopic dermatitis in patients with SoC. Although awareness of SoC in dermatology has increased in recent years, the imagery in educational resources still primarily features patients with Fitzpatrick skin types II and III [4, 5]. It is unsurprising, then, that studies assessing diagnostic confidence among both dermatologists and non-dermatologists reflect similar gaps, underlining that this is an area in need of significant knowledge improvement.

In summary, the findings from both studies highlight an urgent need for targeted training initiatives for GPs. Given that dermatologists have managed fewer than 30% of patient visits for skin-related issues in the United States during periods of workforce shortages, there is a significant reliance on non-dermatologist care [6]. This demand will likely intensify as the population ages and the incidence of skin cancer rises, further increasing the need for effective dermatological care [7]. Consequently, these findings emphasize the importance of developing targeted training programs that equip healthcare providers to meet the evolving dermatological needs of their patients with confidence.

Anne Sofie Frølunde drafted the manuscript and finalized it based on input from the co-authors. Mette Deleuran, Janus Laust Thomsen and Christian Vestergaard critically revised the draft. All authors have read and approved the final version of the manuscript.

Not applicable.

M.D. has received research support, honoraria for lecturing and/or consulting/advisory board agreements from AbbVie, Eli Lilly, LEO Pharma, UNION Therapeutics, Incyte, La Roche Posay, NUMAB Therapeutics AG, Pierre Fabre, Pfizer, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sanofi Genzyme, Almirall and Kymab. None of these COIs are relevant to the present article. C.V. has acted as a speaker and/or consultant for Almirall, Sanofi A/S, Eli Lilly Denmark A/S, Novartis Healthcare A/S, Janssen-Cilag A/S, LEO Pharma A/S, AstraZeneca A/S, Eli Lilly & Co Ltd, Pierre Fabre, Chiesi, Galderma, Pfizer and Abbvie, and has received research grants from Sanofi, Pfizer and Almirall. The other authors declare no conflicts of interest.