That's Derm Good‪!‬ Janelle Ball

In this episode of That's Derm Good, host Lacey interviews Lacey Varnon, the VP of NAMAPA (National Association of Medication Access and Patient Advocacy) and a biologic coordinator in the field of allergy. Janelle Ball and Lacey Varnon discuss the connections between the roles of allergy, asthma, dermatology, and biologic coordinators in these specialties. They also talk about their initial meeting at the Healthcare Advocates Summit and the impacts they are making in their respective fields. Overall, this episode showcases Lacey's journey in the medical field and her insights into the interconnectedness of asthma, allergy, and dermatology.
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
The episode also delves into the potential isolation that can accompany the coordinator role. The speaker acknowledges that only some in the workplace have a partner, and some coordinators may feel they are navigating their work alone. Because of the potential for isolation, Lacey works hard to bolster the camaraderie among team members through regular communication and conversations to build relationships and stay engaged with each other. 
ADVERTISER: Looking to equip your dermatology office staff better? Work with BC Educators offers in-office training and virtual biologic coordinators to create a single point of contact for everything from prior authorizations to prescription acquisition and patient follow-up. To ensure patients have access to the medications they need, visit bceducators.com.
Overall, Lacey's experience with the buy-and-bill process is a testament to the importance of continuous learning and growth in the medical field. It highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be adaptable and willing to take on new challenges. Lacey's journey demonstrates the positive impact that can be made when individuals are given opportunities to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new responsibilities.
This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Janelle Ball welcomes Dr. Scott Drew, a dermatologist and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Dr. Drew explains the history and philosophy behind osteopathic medicine, which focuses on treating the whole body rather than just individual ailments. He discusses how this approach is particularly relevant in dermatology, as the skin can often provide clues to underlying systemic diseases. Dr. Drew also highlights the growing number of dermatology residency programs at DO hospitals and medical schools. Tune in to learn more about the unique perspective that osteopathic medicine brings to dermatology.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Dr. Drew emphasizes the importance of treating the whole body in dermatology rather than just focusing on specific skin conditions. He explains that dermatologists are trained to look for cutaneous signs of systemic diseases, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, which may manifest on the skin. This holistic approach allows dermatologists to identify underlying health issues and provide comprehensive patient care.
ADVERTISER: PrescriberPoint is a FREE, AI-powered hub with resources to get patients on therapy, including prescribing information, insurance coverage, and prior authorization forms with one click! Get started with a free profile at prescriberpoint.com/ThatsDermGood. 
One of the reasons dermatology profoundly impacts patients' lives is the visible nature of skin conditions. Dr. Drew mentions dermatologists often see patients initially diagnosed by primary care physicians or OB/GYNs. Skin conditions like melanoma, which can be life-threatening, are often first detected by non-dermatologists. Therefore, dermatologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating these conditions, ensuring early intervention and improved outcomes.

Dr. Drew acknowledges that careful planning and coordination in medical missionary work to ensure you address the community's specific needs. Going with a group that includes experienced veterans and newcomers creates a balance of knowledge and fresh perspectives that contribute to the mission's success. You can trust Dr. Drew when he advises about best practices for mission work; after all, he has traveled on more than 30 international trips, including trips to Kenya, Peru, Uganda, and Sierra Leone.
This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Listen as Zeinub Alber, an RN, former biologic coordinator, and field reimbursement specialist. They discuss the importance of process and access in healthcare and how they can make a difference in patients' lives. Zeinub emphasizes the need for resources and different ways of learning and praises the host for creating a platform to share valuable information.
NOTE: Zeinub Alber is sharing her opinions and thoughts about healthcare; her comments do not reflect the opinions of her employer. 

Zeinub highlights the importance of comprehensive documentation as good clinical practice. Additionally, this documentation serves as a means to revisit and evaluate the efficacy of treatments or interventions that benefit the patient.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Zeinub saw the emergence of field reimbursement specialists (FRMs) and the importance of pharmaceutical sales reps in her education and patient care. She realized these roles impacted her ability to navigate the system and help her patients receive the needed therapies. Inspired by their work, she became an FRM, aiming to touch more lives and support healthcare professionals like her.

The discussion between Janelle Ball and Zeinub Alber addresses the role of insurance companies in questioning the treatments or interventions being administered. Zeinub challenges the idea that insurance companies create obstacles or seek reasons to deny coverage. Instead, ask questions of patients and providers to ensure that the treatments or interventions are supported by evidence and are safe and effective.
ADVERTISER: Looking to equip your dermatology office staff better? Work with BC Educators offers in-office training and virtual biologic coordinators to create a single point of contact for everything from prior authorizations to prescription acquisition and patient follow-up. To ensure patients have access to the medications they need, visit bceducators.com.

Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers recognizing the significance of biologics in a patient's journey and making them accessible in their offices. It acknowledges the challenges office staff face in accessing and understanding biologics but also highlights the increasing availability of resources and support. Patients are encouraged to actively participate in decision-making and stay informed about their insurance coverage.

Zeinub’s story also demonstrates the importance of education and networking in overcoming these challenges. By actively seeking out opportunities for learning, attending dinner programs, and engaging with sales reps and FRMs, Zeinub enhanced her knowledge and improved patient outcomes. She recognized the value of collaboration and leveraging the expertise of others in the field.
This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Elizabeth Johnson is the CEO of MedicoCX, President of NAMAPA, and co-founder of the Healthcare Advocate Summit. This fun episode is about Elizabeth's love for karaoke and how it can connect people. Elizabeth has a nursing background and discusses the importance of loving what you do in healthcare.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Elizabeth Johnson likes to network, party, and advocate. The CEO's primary goal is to empower and support healthcare workers because she believes that her legacy is helping them become more efficient and effective in their roles. Elizabeth Johnson aims to equip them with the necessary education and resources to excel and become heroes for their patients. 

ADVERTISER: PrescriberPoint is a FREE, AI-powered hub with resources to get patients on therapy, including prescribing information, insurance coverage, and prior authorization forms with one click! Get started with a free profile at prescriberpoint.com/ThatsDermGood. 

Elizabeth believes they can establish stronger one-on-one relationships with patients and deliver better care by supporting healthcare workers. Elizabeth has worked in various healthcare settings, starting in a hospital and later transitioning to a specialty medication role. 

Elizabeth Johnson highlights the challenges nurses face working in hospitals, which led her to seek a position with more manageable hours. She stumbled upon an allergy position on Craigslist, thinking it would be a straightforward job dealing with runny noses. However, she quickly realized that allergy immunology encompasses many conditions and treatments and fell in love with the specialty.

As the President of NAMAPA (National Association of Medication Access & Patient Advocacy), Elizabeth knows how authenticity, empowerment, and resiliency can improve healthcare. As the President of this organization, Elizabeth can advocate for patients and healthcare advocates on a large scale.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Dr. Hannah Kopelman appreciates that your skin tells a story about other reactions within your body. In this episode, Dr. Kopelman, a dual-trained dermatologist specializing in skin cancer and hair loss, explains how your liver, nails, hair, and feet can tell a story about your health and how she enjoys researching and identifying the reactions. 

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Dr. Kopelman took proactive steps to gain experience and knowledge in dermatology. She sought dermatology research opportunities and ran the dermatology club at their medical school. However, she realized she needed more hands-on experience, so she began rotations across the United States. This required significant effort and resources, as she had to travel long distances and face the disappointment of being turned away from some rotation sites. Despite these challenges, she did not give up.

The individual's persistence is also evident in their post-graduate journey. After completing their intern year, she took two to three years to focus solely on dermatology research and clinical fellowships. Dr. Hannah Kopelman wanted a strong foundation and felt competent in the field. She continued to seek opportunities for growth and learning, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

ADVERTISER: Looking to equip your dermatology office staff better? Work with BC Educators offers in-office training and virtual biologic coordinators to create a single point of contact for everything from prior authorizations to prescription acquisition and patient follow-up. To ensure patients have access to the medications they need, visit bceducators.com.

Dr. Hannah Kopelman adapted to the circumstances by engaging in teledermatology and working as a medical assistant despite already having a medical license. Their commitment to their dream career was unwavering. 

One of the exciting developments in dermatology is the emergence of accessible teledermatology platforms for patients. This podcast transcript highlights the efforts of an individual working on such a platform called Derm On Demand. This platform aims to offer accessible care to patients anywhere at any time.
This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Janelle Ball interviews Brooke Hazy, a dermatology Registered Nurse (RN), who shares her passion for wound care and patient education. Brooke's journey into the field of dermatology began during her vocational program in high school, where she had the opportunity to shadow at a dermatology clinic. This experience sparked her interest in skincare and wound care, leading her to pursue a career as an RN specializing in dermatology.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Brooke's dedication to wound care stems from her desire to educate patients on proper wound care techniques. As a dermatology RN, she encounters various surgeries, including excisions and Mohs surgery. One of her primary responsibilities is explaining how to care for their wounds and emphasizing the importance of using pressure dressings, especially for elderly patients on blood thinners. By educating patients on wound care, Brooke aims to prevent bleeding, reduce the risk of hematoma formation, and minimize the chances of infection.

ADVERTISER: PrescriberPoint is a FREE, AI-powered hub with resources to get patients on therapy, including prescribing information, insurance coverage, and prior authorization forms with one click! Get started with a free profile at prescriberpoint.com/ThatsDermGood. 

One aspect of wound care that Brooke emphasizes is the importance of keeping the wound moist. Many patients mistakenly believe that allowing a scab to form is necessary for proper wound healing. However, Brooke educates patients on the benefits of using Vaseline or Aquaphor-based products to keep the wound moist. While this may prolong the healing process slightly, it ultimately yields the best cosmetic results. Patient education plays a crucial role in wound healing, and Brooke ensures that her patients understand the rationale behind each step of the care process.

Moreover, patient education helps to dispel common misconceptions and promote healthy behaviors. In the podcast, Brooke mentions educating patients about avoiding medications like ibuprofen, alcohol, and smoking, which can delay wound healing. This shows that patient education goes beyond providing information; it also involves guiding patients toward making choices that will benefit their health. By debunking myths and providing evidence-based information, healthcare professionals empower patients to make informed decisions and adopt healthier lifestyles.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.