Dermatology 101

A dermatologist is a licensed physician educated in the specialty of dermatology which covers diseases of the skin, hair and nails. He/she has undergone a 3-year residency training at a hospital or institution approved by the Philippine Dermatological Society(PDS) after which he/she takes the board examinations of the PDS then earns the title Board Certified.

Beauty centers are the in thing right now. These centers are sprouting almost everywhere – in malls, in highly-populated areas, even in your very own neighborhood! These centers offer services such as skin peeling, whitening, rejuvenation and a whole lot more. But wait! Are you sure that the persons whom you have entrusted your skin to are really qualified to do so? 

The FREEMAN Lifestyle went to MO Dermatologic Laser and Surgery Center and talked to Dr. Marilou Jimenez Ong, a certified dermatologist to find out the truth about the practice of dermatology. 

TF: What is the work of a dermatologist? 

Dr. Ong: A dermatologist is a licensed physician educated in the specialty of dermatology which covers diseases of the skin, hair and nails. He/she has undergone a 3-year residency training at a hospital or institution approved by the Philippine Dermatological Society(PDS) after which he/she takes the board examinations of the PDS then earns the title Board Certified. He/she will give you effective and safe medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments for skin, hair and nail problems. 

TF: After 18 years of practicing dermatology, why is it that you put up, just recently, the MO Dermatologic Laser and Surgery Center? 

Dr. Ong: Actually I have been doing laser treatments for about 10 years now. But everything just fell into place – I met up with a plastic surgeon and he agreed to be a partner. And I felt that it was time for me to open a separate center for my laser machines and welcome other board-certified dermatologists to bring their patients for laser treatments. 

TF: Do you think people are becoming vain? 

Dr. Ong: I guess so. But it’s not just vanity. I think people feel good if they look good.  

TF: What is your advice for people with skin problems? 

Dr. Ong: Definitely for them to go and see ONLY certified members of the Philippine Dermatological Society, which is the ONLY medical society for dermatology recognized by the Philippine Medical Society.  ONLY your PDS dermatologist is a competent and skilled physician who is the authority on skin. Actually, PDS has a Skin Safety Campaign going on right now 

TF: When did this campaign of the Philippine Dermatological Society start? 

Dr. Ong: This campaign started a few months ago. All members are encouraged to be active in this campaign for the benefit of the general public.

TF: Is doing liposuction part of the job of a dermatologist? 

Dr. Ong: Yes, a dermatologist can train in liposuction. 

TF: How will you know that the doctor we are going to is a licensed dermatologist? 

Dr. Ong: There are 2 ways of identifying a certified dermatologist. One is to look for the PDS Skin Safety Campaign logo in the clinic, which may be displayed at the entrance. Another is to look for prescription pad information indicating the physician is a Fellow(FPDS), Diplomate (DPDS), PDS Associate or Affiliate. This means that the physician is an accredited member of the Philippine Dermatological Society.  

TF: What is the Philippine Dermatological Society doing about the problem of pseudo-dermatologists? 

Dr. Ong: The PDS can only police its own members. Its’ Skin Safety Campaign is just one way of helping the public to be aware. It’s really up to the patients to be vigilant in their choice. “Risk not! It’s the only skin you’ve got!” — PDS. 

For more information about MO Dermatologic Laser and Surgery Center, please call 254-9521 and 2537960 or visit them at Room 307, M. Diaz Bldg. Don Jose Avila Street, Cebu City.