Expert consensus recommendations for surgical proficiencies of dermatology physician assistants: a modified Delphi survey

The volume of dermatologic procedures being performed by physician assistants (PAs) is increasing rapidly. A recent national survey showed that most dermatologists recommend that PAs be able to treat common skin cancers after accruing 2 years of employment in dermatology, but learning objectives for safely and responsibly delivering this care have not been delineated in the literature. We sought to establish consensus-based proficiency recommendations for the growing dermatology PA workforce, using a modified Delphi survey of experts. A panel of eight dermatologists and 7 PAs from diverse practice settings and geographic locations reached consensus on 23 learning objectives for dermatology PAs and 11 additional skills for Mohs PAs, presuming 2 years of appropriately supervised experience in each respective setting. These recommendations provide guidance for the clinical mentorship of PAs new to the specialty and presume that supervising dermatologists engage frequently with trainees. Several recommended readings are also offered, which may help learners achieve these proficiency objectives.