Photo by Brandon Sullivan

Specialty: Dermatology
Medical School: University of Wisconsin
Years Practicing: 20
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

How did you know you wanted to be a dermatologist?
“I’ve wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. I confirmed my interest when I did some volunteer work at a hospital in high school. I became interested in dermatology as a senior medical student. I did a rotation in it and found I loved the ability to immediately see, diagnose and treat a problem with relatively quick results. I was already targeted to do an internal medicine residency, which I did. About halfway through I decided to pursue dermatology and completed a residency in that as well. I think a background in internal medicine helps all medical sub-specialties. It gives us a foundation of understanding the whole body and whole patient.”

If we asked your patients to describe their experiences with you, what would they say?
“I would like to think they’d describe it as a competent evaluation of their skin with effective treatment. I hope they have confidence in their care. My staff and I try to treat patients with a combination of respect, professionalism and comfort.”

What has been your proudest moment as a doctor?
“I’m most proud of the practice I’m in with seven other physicians. I believe we provide excellent dermatologic care. I’m most pleased when I get to give relief to someone with a bad skin problem. I’m also happy when I’m able to diagnose skin cancer in its earliest form when it is much less threatening.”

Do people show you their weird skin conditions during social occasions?
“All the time. I try to approach it professionally because many people are serious in their concern. If the problem needs more investigation, I usually ask them to come into the office.”

Where’s your favorite place to go in Phoenix to get out of the sun?
“I much prefer outdoor activities (tennis, hiking, running, gardening) to any indoor activities. While I prefer to be outdoors, I do wear sunscreen and do my best to protect against the sun. Indoors, I like to watch the Phoenix Suns and enjoy Phoenix’s many restaurants.