It is with immense pride and profound excitement that I share a significant milestone for our community: my article, "Improving Diversity in Dermatology Nursing Education," has been published in the groundbreaking, first-ever magazine for DNPs of Color!

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This publication isn't just ink on a page; it’s a powerful testament to the growing influence and critical contributions of Doctor of Nursing Practice-prepared nurses of color. My article delves into vital, often overlooked questions: Why isn’t skin of color education mandated in nursing and medical schools or healthcare entities?  It highlights the urgent need to address the lack of diversity in dermatology, a challenge I’ve extensively covered on the Mahogany Dermatology Blog, encompassing everything from medical education to hands-on training and decision aids. Despite some progress, the work is far from over. I founded Mahogany Dermatology Nursing | Education | Research ™ to directly address these gaps, emphasizing skin of color, business acumen, and digital literacy for nurses and nurse practitioners.

The article also unpacks how Nurse Practitioners are uniquely positioned to bridge the significant physician shortage in dermatology. Patients face alarming wait times, up to 35 days in urban areas and over 75 days in rural regions, and less than 1% of dermatologists are American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander, with only 5% being Black or Hispanic. Just as NPs have effectively stepped into the gap in primary care, we are essential to expanding access and improving outcomes in dermatology. Our work at Mahogany Dermatology, from developing resources  to fostering communities like the DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group or DERM NPs + PAs of Atlanta, is a direct response to the demand for experienced dermatology NPs and a commitment to nurturing the next generation through mentorship.

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Now, here's how you can read this impactful piece: This groundbreaking article is an exclusive benefit for members of DNPs of Color.

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Joining DNPs of Color is more than just gaining access to a magazine; it's about connecting with a powerful movement. Professional organizations, especially those dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, provide an invaluable ecosystem of support. They offer a unique community where you can find mentorship that truly understands your journey, access specialized professional development opportunities, and engage in advocacy efforts that drive meaningful change. In a profession where nurses and NPs often navigate complex paths and face misconceptions, these organizations provide a critical space for shared learning, collaboration, and collective empowerment. They are vital for enhancing professional visibility, fostering leadership, and ensuring that our expertise is recognized and celebrated.

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I invite you to become a part of this transformative community. Discover the full depth of insights in my article and countless other resources designed to elevate your practice and purpose.

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Learn more and join DNPs of Color here

The DMV Dermatology NP + PA Group's Summer Mixer is scheduled for Friday June 27, 2025 at 5:30 pm in collaboration with the SDPA Conference. If you're interested in attending the conference, there's still time to register. If you would like to RSVP for our Mixer, contact us here and bring a friend!

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Kimberly Madison, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, WCC

Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner, educator, and author dedicated to advancing dermatology nursing education and research with an emphasis on skin of color. As the founder of Mahogany Dermatology Nursing | Education | Research™, I aim to expand access to dermatology research, business acumen, and innovation using artificial intelligence and augmented reality, while also leading professional groups and mentoring clinicians. Through engaging and informative social media content and peer-reviewed research, I empower nurses and healthcare professionals to excel in dermatology and improve patient care.

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