In the latest episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by HCPLive and hosted by Skin of Color Savvy (SOCS) leaders, host Elizabeth A. Kiracofe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Airia Comprehensive Dermatology, led a discussion on patient empowerment, shared decision-making, and advancing equitable dermatologic care for patients with skin of color.
Key Takeaways
- Patient empowerment begins with education, trust, and shared decision-making between clinicians and patients.
- Historical mistrust and underrepresentation continue to affect engagement in dermatologic care and clinical research among patients with skin of color.
- Effective communication, including listening to patients’ concerns and treatment goals, is essential for improving adherence, satisfaction, and outcomes.
- Greater representation in dermatology education, clinical trials, and provider training is critical to advancing equitable care for diverse patient populations.
Joining her were Avery LaChance, MD, MPH, a dermatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and director of multiple specialty clinics focused on autoimmune and inflammatory skin disease, and Barry Gardner, a biologic coordinator and medical assistant with LARK Dermatology who is currently completing his path toward becoming a physician assistant.
The conversation centered on the growing influence of patients in shaping their own care and how clinicians can better partner with them to improve outcomes. Kiracofe framed patient power as a shift away from a physician-directed model of care toward one in which patients actively participate in treatment decisions. Throughout the episode, the speakers emphasized that successful dermatologic care depends not only on clinical expertise but also on trust, education, and meaningful communication.
LaChance noted that today’s patients have unprecedented access to medical information, making treatment discussions more collaborative than ever before. She described patient power as the combination of personal beliefs, cultural values, education, and conversations with healthcare professionals that ultimately shape healthcare decisions. However, she stressed that these conversations are particularly important for patients with skin of color, many of whom may carry a historical mistrust of the healthcare system stemming from past inequities, biases, and underrepresentation in research.1
Gardner echoed the importance of trust and education, drawing from his experience working directly with patients. He explained that many patients with darker skin tones arrive at specialty dermatology clinics after multiple misdiagnoses or unsuccessful treatment experiences. For him, empowering patients begins with ensuring they understand their diagnosis, available treatment options, and the evidence supporting those therapies. He highlighted the value of accessible educational materials, clear communication, and creating opportunities for patients to ask questions even after appointments have ended.
