Developing relationships with patients, staff, and industry in dermatology

Maintaining a thriving dermatology practice requires thoughtful and intentional investment in relationships with patients, staff, and industry. Growing the patient–physician relationship involves optimizing patient satisfaction and outcomes, which can provide improved ratings and reimbursement. Cultivating an environment of employee engagement is also essential for promotion of patient satisfaction, employee satisfaction, and practice productivity. Additionally, relationships with industry require careful navigation to maximize its great potential for medical advancement and benefit for all parties. There are inherent conflicts of interest between physician motivation for improved patient outcomes and industry goals of increased profits. Successful management of these relationships can be a difficult task, but it remains important.