Mission & Impact
The Medical Dermatology Society (MDS) is a professional community dedicated to improving the care of patients with complex, often systemically linked skin diseases. Since 1994, MDS has brought together clinicians, researchers, and educators who share a commitment to advancing medical dermatology through clinical care, research, mentorship, and education.
Our members include academic and practicing dermatologists, residents, fellows, and health professionals who treat or study diseases at the intersection of dermatology and internal medicine—conditions like lupus, dermatomyositis, cutaneous lymphoma, and severe drug reactions that often require systemic treatment and multidisciplinary care.
MDS fills a unique niche in the dermatology landscape by focusing on the systemically ill dermatologic patient—and by championing the people and pathways that improve their care.
Our Mission
The Medical Dermatology Society is dedicated to improving the care of patients whose skin diseases or treatments have significant systemic consequences.
We pursue this mission by:
- Fostering education and clinical excellence in medical dermatology
- Supporting research and clinical trials focused on high-need patient populations
- Providing mentorship and professional development across career stages
- Advocating for the value and visibility of medical dermatology in academic, community, and hospital settings
A Community for Collaboration and Care
We are proud to provide a smaller, highly collaborative society—one where members build meaningful professional relationships, contribute to the field’s advancement, and find opportunities to lead.
What Makes MDS Unique:
- Patient-Centered Focus – From rare autoimmune diseases to drug hypersensitivity reactions, we support those working at the front lines of systemic skin disease care.
- Commitment to Mentorship – Our Mentorship Program connects experienced leaders with trainees and early-career dermatologists.
- Annual Meeting – A one-day event that draws 400+ attendees each year for high-impact presentations, networking, and discussion.
- Advocacy for Medical Dermatology – We elevate the role of medical dermatology within broader healthcare conversations, with a focus on access, equity, and research funding.
- Career-Spanning Support – MDS welcomes medical students, residents, new dermatologists, faculty, and researchers with tiered membership options and leadership opportunities.
Interested in Membership?
MDS offers affordable membership options for students, residents, early-career professionals, and seasoned clinicians. Click below to learn more about membership benefits and how to join.