Establishing Competency & Building Excellence in Dermatology
Course Directors
Margaret Bobonich, DNP, FNP-C, DCNP
Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C
Leigh Ann Pansch, MSN, FNP-C, DCNP
Program Content Subject To Change
Program Highlights
- Review course for CAQ-Derm and DCNP Certification Exam
- Core curriculum to guide and document your in-office clinical training
- Review knowledge and skills required for clinical competency for any NP/PA specializing in dermatology
- Enhance diagnostic accuracy
- Increase competence and confidence in prescribing dermatology drugs
- NEW! Dermatopathology Workshop: Build essential dermatopathology knowledge for practice
About Our Program
The DCNP and CAQ-Derm review course has been expanded to incorporate new scientific advancements in the diagnosis and management of skin diseases. This core curriculum now includes a greater emphasis on advanced pharmacotherapies, providing foundational knowledge for all dermatology advanced practice clinicians. Whether your goal is to prepare for certification, fill knowledge gaps, or assess your current knowledge level, this program offers a comprehensive overview of essential dermatology knowledge that all dermatology NPs and PAs should master for competency in practice. The core curriculum presented aligns with the requisite standard of care for all dermatology NPs and PAs.
The 2026 Dermatology Essentials and Advanced Pharmacology for NPs and PAs will focus on both disease state education and pharmacotherapies. The conference has been expanded to include a full third day dedicated to pharmacology, concentrating on biologics, immunosuppressants, and small molecule therapies used in dermatology. This intensive content will deepen attendees’ understanding of pharmacokinetics and immunomodulation. The program will assist dermatology clinicians in integrating new drug knowledge into clinical practice, covering patient and drug selection, dosing, monitoring, and adverse events. This core curriculum was constructed in accordance with the Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam blueprint published by the Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Board, as well as the NCCPA’s CAQ-Derm certificate blueprint.
Who Should Attend
NPs and PAs who are:
- seeking advanced pharmacology education to increase their competency and confidence in prescribing dermatologic drugs
- pursuing dermatology continuing education, including pharmacology hours, for recertification or licensure
- not formally trained in dermatology but seeking a comprehensive curriculum to guide their clinical on-the-job training.
- currently in a Master’s program with plans to specialize in dermatology
- preparing for Dermatology NP and PA certification (DCNP or CAQ-Derm)
- developing a professional statement for prospective employers that answers the question: What do you know and how did you learn it?
Our Partners in Dermatology
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors
Accreditation
