Addressing Health Care Disparities in Psoriasis

In her Dermatology Week Fall 2023 session, "Health Disparities in Dermatology: Psoriasis," Dr Junko Takeshita underscored the critical issue of health care disparities in dermatology. She emphasized that equitable access to quality health care is not always a reality for everyone, even in the realm of dermatology. Dr Takeshita's session highlighted the racial/ethnic and gender-based disparities in managing common skin conditions, particularly focusing on psoriasis. By examining differences in cost, treatment approaches, and patient satisfaction along these lines, the presentation highlighted the inequalities that persist in dermatologic care.

Junko Takeshita, MD, PhD, MSCE, is an assistant professor at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. The learning objectives of her presentation included defining health and health care disparities, summarizing racial and ethnic health and health care disparities related to psoriasis, and exploring strategies to address and mitigate these disparities.

“Psoriasis is common across all races, ethnicities, and skin tones,” she explained. “Racial and ethnic disparities in disease burden, health care utilization, and treatment exist.”

Finally, Dr Takeshita noted, “Equitable psoriasis care requires accurate and timely diagnosis, adequate education about psoriasis and treatment options, and a culturally mindful approach to medical management.”

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Reference
Takeshita J. Health disparities in dermatology: psoriasis. Presented at: Dermatology Week; September 20–23; Virtual.