Register

San Francisco, California • March 18, 2027

MEMBER LOGIN • Donate • CONNECT LinkedIn

Studying, Researching, or Practicing Medical Dermatology? Join MDS!

Whether you are exploring dermatology in medical school or are a practicing clinician or academic leader, the Medical Dermatology Society (MDS) offers a community and professional home for every stage of your journey. With annual dues starting at just $50, MDS membership is a smart investment in your future—and in the future of medical dermatology.

Join Now

Why Join the Medical
Dermatology Society?

You belong in MDS if you are:

  • A medical student considering a career in dermatology
  • A dermatology resident or fellow
  • A practicing dermatologist in academic, hospital, or clinical settings
  • A researcher or health professional focused on skin-related disease and care

As a member, you’ll have
the opportunity to:

  • Attend the Annual Meeting at a significantly reduced rate
  • Present your research and engage in topical discussions
  • Participate in our Mentorship Program—whether as a mentee or mentor
  • Serve on committees or hold leadership positions
  • Access exclusive member-only content and professional resources
  • Expand your professional network through a close-knit, collaborative community

A Small Society with Big Impact

With just over 400 members, MDS is intentionally small—fostering real connection, visibility, and collaboration. Whether you’re submitting an abstract, joining a committee, or attending your first meeting, you won’t get lost in the crowd.

William W. Huang, MD, MPH, FAAD

UNC School of Medicine

The Medical Dermatology Society (MDS) has been vital to my career as a clinician, educator, and researcher in complex medical dermatology! Through the society I have developed lifelong friends, colleagues, and collaborators who all share a common interest in shaping Dermatology’s position in the House of Medicine.

Alexandra P. Charrow, MD

Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School

I have been a member of MDS since residency! The annual meeting every year is the highlight of the AAD—engaging and jam-packed with new science and exciting developments in medical dermatology. The MDS highlights and connects others in complex medical dermatology including specialists in severe drug rashes, neutrophilic disorders, IBD derm, HS, hospital dermatology, and infectious disease. Every year, I get to hang out with friends I haven’t seen in years, talk science, review complex patient scenarios, and more.

Scott Elman, MD

University of Miami Health System

I joined the Medical Dermatology Society as a medical student more than a decade ago, and it has been one of the most formative experiences of my career. Through its unique blend of networking, research, and leadership opportunities, MDS has not only helped me grow as a physician but also connected me with mentors and colleagues who continue to inspire me every day. The society represents the very best of our field, a community committed to advancing knowledge, improving patient care, and shaping the future of medical dermatology.

Joseph Merola, MD, MMSC

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

MDS is a truly special community—it is a group of dedicated and brilliant people who share a commitment to caring for patients with complex medical dermatology needs. It offers a sense of home and complements larger organizations like the AAD by focusing deeply on the interdisciplinary space where dermatology meets internal medicine.

Membership Levels and Benefits

Use this guide to choose the membership level that aligns with your current role. All members receive discounted pricing for the Annual Meeting, MDS Mentorship Program, and members-only resources.

Medical Student Membership
Annual dues: $25

For individuals currently enrolled in medical school with an interest in dermatology.

  • Access to members-only resources
  • Discounted Annual Meeting registration
  • Eligible to present research at the Annual Meeting
  • Connect with mentors through the MDS Mentorship Program

Non-voting; not eligible to hold office

Resident/Fellow Membership
Annual dues: $50

For dermatology residents or fellows (up to 5 years).

  • Access to members-only resources
  • Discounted Annual Meeting registration
  • Eligible to present research at the Annual Meeting
  • Connect with mentors through the MDS Mentorship Program

Non-voting; not eligible to hold office

Affiliate Membership
Annual dues: $100

For non-physician professionals (e.g., researchers, scientists, allied health professionals) working in dermatology through academic, clinical, public, or industry roles.

  • Access to members-only resources
  • Discounted Annual Meeting registration
  • Participate in committees

Eligible to vote and hold office

Active Membership
Annual dues: $200

For board-certified dermatologists in clinical, academic, or research roles.

  • Access to members-only resources
  • Discounted Annual Meeting registration
  • Eligible to present research at the Annual Meeting
  • Serve as a mentee to emerging leaders
  • Build your network and shape the direction of MDS

Eligible to vote and hold office

Sustaining Membership
Annual dues: $500

For members who want to go further—sustaining membership helps support reduced dues for trainees and funds MDS programming.

  • All Active Member benefits
  • Special recognition at the Annual Meeting
  • $300 of dues are tax-deductible

Eligible to vote and hold office. Ideal for faculty or members looking to give back to the field.

Ready to Join?

Click below to start your membership application. Or, if you still have questions, contact us to learn more about which membership is right for you.

    Become a Member