• I’d like to sign up for a dermatology rotation at UT southwestern, what are the available options?

There are two dermatology tracks available as elective clerkships. On both tracks, there are ample opportunities to interact with the faculty, and there is exposure to dermatology  in multiple formats: private clinics, the county hospital/community clinic at Parkland, inpatient rounds, dermatopathology rounds, and other lectures. Both tracks include integrated basic science lectures, pediatric dermatology lectures once a month, grand rounds, dermatological surgery lectures, and the Friday lecture and slide session.

The first track, Dermatology for the Generalist (DERM 0304, Track 2), is directed at medical students interested in a career in general medicine, pediatrics, or family practice who would like greater insight into common manifestations of cutaneous diseases that they may encounter in their practices. It is also a good experience for anyone interested in any specialty who would like a bit more exposure to dermatology. You must score 74% or above on the Kodachrome assessment to pass the elective. It is open to fourth year students only.

The second rotation, Outpatient Dermatology for the Dermatologist (DERM 0301, Track 1), is more intensive. It is aimed at those seriously considering or intending to apply for a dermatology residency position. The rotation requires that you commit to a research project that leads to a publication, which will require a considerable amount of time. You will also choose a preceptor for the rotation (more about that below) and attend journal club and Dallas Dermatological Society meetings. Finally, you must score 84% or above on the Kodachrome assessment at the end of the rotation. This elective is open to third and fourth year students.

• When is the best time for me to schedule an elective dermatology rotation?

As can be expected, the interview months, late November through January, tend to be crowded. January through June leaves less competition for the available alternative subcomponents of the rotation. As with any application, advance planning ensures a secure spot in your area of interest. If you want more time with and access to the faculty, the “off-season” is for you. If you’ve completed a different rotation elsewhere and wish to strut your stuff amidst visiting co-applicants, take your pick. Given the method by which the third year off month is assigned at our institution, it is more difficult for the incoming third year student to forecast when the opportunity will arise.

• How do I choose a preceptor for the rotation?

In DERM 0301, there are four blocks with differing areas of concentration and a common requirement for participation in a project leading to publication.  The following blocks are available on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing or calling Jo Urquhart, 214-648-8806.

DERM 0304 clinic assignments are determined by the chief resident.

• Is there a limit on the number of rotations I can participate in?

Yes. The elective limit is 2, unless there is substantial difference in the 3rd elective. This applies even with away rotations in dermatology.

Additional details are available through the UT Southwestern website in the elective catalog section: http://www8.utsouthwestern.edu/utsw/cda/dept137886/files/138937.html