Dermatology
Dermatology is the study, research and diagnosis of disorders, diseases, cancers, cosmetic, ageing and physiological conditions of the skin, fat, hair, nails and oral and genital membranes. It includes the management of these by different investigations and therapies, including but not limited to dermatohistopathology, topical and systemic medications, dermatologic surgery, phototherapy, laser therapy, superficial radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy and other therapies that may become available.
Vocational training in dermatology is undertaken through the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). Once RACP training is completed, the doctor is awarded the Fellowship of the RACP (FRACP) in dermatology.
Am I able to apply to work as a recognised specialist in New Zealand?
To apply for vocational registration in dermatology, you would need to hold:
- the FRACP qualification in dermatology; or
- an international postgraduate medical qualification in dermatology, where your combination of qualifications, training and experience is assessed against the standard of the FRACP in dermatology.
What standard will I be compared against?
To obtain the FRACP in dermatology, the trainee completes 6-8 years of training:
- a minimum of 3 years of basic medical experience
- 24-36 months of basic dermatology training:
- firm understanding required of common benign and malignant tumours of the skin and their management, the role and use of dermascopy and the diagnosis and management of psoriasis, eczema and acne
- 2 years of basic dermatology training required in Auckland and Hamilton (1 year at each location)
- weekly or fortnightly presentations to supervisors
- presentations, during every year of basic dermatology training, at the annual meeting of the New Zealand Dermatological Societ
- publication of at least one paper in a peer reviewed journal
- 12-24 months of advanced dermatological training:
- undertaken at approved centres offshore, usually in the United Kingdom or United State
- firm understanding required of advanced adult dermatology, advanced procedural dermatology (Mohs surgery and cosmetic surgery), advanced dermatopathology and advanced paediatric dermatology
- FRACP in dermatology awarded on satisfactory completion of examination and training requirements
- participation required in the RACP continuing professional development programme (MyCPD) or in the New Zealand Dermatological Society continuing medical education programme
I want to make a vocational registration application
If you wish to make a vocational registration application, please refer to the Vocational Registration Homepage and select the Option appropriate for you.
Am I able to apply for other types of registration?
You may be able to apply for more than one type of registration. To find out which is the best fit for you, please use our self assessment tool