The DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group

The DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group is a networking group. We have a private, members-only page that can be found on Facebook. Admittedly, I was not on Facebook until the last year or so. During this time, I have found social media to be an immensely valuable tool when it comes to networking and learning from my colleagues. I write about social media and the benefits of the different platforms for healthcare providers frequently on the Mahogany Dermatology blog. While many people are hesitant to join or prefer to restrict their time on each platform, I've learned first hand that it can be leveraged to grow your network and your knowledge if used effectively.

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Membership

If you're not familiar, Facebook has different features including a personal page, business page, and public or private membership pages. When it comes to private groups, you have to meet specific criteria to join. I am part of a number of Facebook member-only pages for healthcare providers and there are some common themes amongst them that you'll find when you ask to join the DMV Dermatology NP+PA page:

-Have a legitimate personal account. This may include having a profile picture, recent activity on your page, and/or have an active account for a specific length of time.

-Provide your National Provider Identification (NPI) number which is searchable and may be used to verify your professional licensure.

-Agree to membership rules which aim to reduce spam, promote transparency, encourage respect, and create a safe space.

Some Facebook member-only pages don't allow self-promotion, however, the DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group welcomes the entrepreneurial spirit so we can all grow, learn, and build our businesses, perhaps even find a potential business partner.

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The Benefits

As busy Advance Practice Providers (APP), we have been studying and practicing for years, with little time for outside interests. So while we've heard about the benefits of networking and mentorship, we often don't know where to start. The DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group is a great place to get started if you're new to using social media as a strategic tool. So, whether you're looking for a mentor or looking for someone to mentor, this is the group for you.

We all know too well, the struggle of finding preceptors and gaining clinical hours, especially in dermatology. I would love to see students and even experienced APPs curious about transitioning to dermatology find opportunities and get their questions answered through the DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group.

As aforementioned, I am part of several Facebook member-only pages for healthcare providers and I have been thoroughly impressed with the level of respect, the kindness of others to address questions, the level of expertise and professionalism, and the daily/frequent activity that keeps me coming back. I hope the DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group can embody those same characteristics. I'm most excited about hosting virtual and in-person events once we get about 100 members or so. Local events is likely to be a huge draw as it prevents you from having to request time off. Lastly, I have a new friend as a result of my attendance at the Sunrise Dermatology conference who will be starting a Derm APP group for a nearby region! I am elated about our future collaboration and how we'll be able to strengthen our network. Once she has the page up and running, I'll update this post with the link.

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I Want Your Input

When you visit the homepage and click on the browse or community home tab, you'll find a chat called the Dermatology NP + PA Poll. Here, I simply want to know how to provide the most value through the page by asking you to share how you would like to benefit from being a member. The options include networking, mentorship, in-person events, and virtual events to name a few. I may be the administrator of the page, but it will be our collective voices that grow the community into something special.

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If you specialize in medical, cosmetic, or surgical dermatology as a practicing or aspiring NP or PA, join us and tell your colleagues!

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Kimberly Madison, DNP, AGPCNP-BC

Kimberly Madison is a new dermatology nurse practitioner with a passion for writing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and mentorship. I created this blog to share my journey as I become a dermatology nurse practitioner and entrepreneur. Most importantly, I’m looking forward to helping nurse practitioners and aspiring students to better understand the business of dermatology and their role in improving access to care, providing culturally competent care, and advancing education.

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