Rıdvan Şakir's Dr. His Feedback on the Dermatology Rotation in America, Completed Under the Supervision of Amor Khachemoune
My one-month rotation at Premier Dermatology in Virginia in March 2025 gave me an invaluable experience of the US healthcare system and the opportunity to observe the differences between Turkish and American practices. I deepened my clinical understanding by participating in Mohs surgery, general dermatology clinics, and diagnostic procedures.
Dr. Under the guidance of Khachemoune, I learned Mohs surgery techniques; I learned to recognize histological patterns such as basaloid islands in basal cell carcinoma and keratin pearls in squamous cell carcinoma. Dr. With Zahir, I performed biopsies and cryotherapy in cases such as molluscum contagiosum and tinea unguium. The rotation, unlike supervised training in Turkey, emphasized autonomy, teamwork and patient-centered care.
I overcame initial problems such as sewing errors and insufficient lidocaine injections with practice and feedback. Although adapting to the US electronic patient record system (EMR) was difficult at first, I increased my documentation efficiency by using checklists.
While the U.S. system prioritizes preventive health care, advanced technology, and collaboration, cost barriers remain. Turkey's universal system reduces the financial burden, but waiting times are long. While patient pre-assessment (by medical assistants) increases efficiency in the USA, integrated electronic records reduce unnecessary examinations in Turkey. Prescription flexibility (nationwide pharmacy access) in Turkey is more user-friendly than the US pharmacy-dependent system.
While American patients are more proactive and independent, family support comes to the fore in Turkey. The rotation strengthened my ability to adapt and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.
My exposure to dermatopathology reshaped my career goals. Dr. Khachemoune's mentorship sparked my interest in pathology, leading to my decision to pursue a pathology residency and dermatopathology subspecialty in the USA. My passion for diagnostic accuracy and interdisciplinary collaboration was reinforced by this rotation.
This experience enhanced my clinical skills, demonstrated the strengths of both systems, and clarified my career path. I aim for excellence in patient care by blending the innovation of the USA with the practicality of Turkey.