Best Dermatologists in Chesapeake

Introduction to Dermatology in Chesapeake

Overview of dermatology and its importance

Dermatology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. It plays a significant role in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Dermatologists address a wide range of conditions, from common issues like acne and eczema to more serious concerns such as skin cancer. They also provide cosmetic services to improve the appearance of the skin.

Regular visits to a dermatologist can help in early detection and prevention of various skin-related health issues, making it an essential aspect of comprehensive healthcare.

The dermatology landscape in Chesapeake

Based on the provided data, Chesapeake has at least 11 dermatology professionals serving the community, including board-certified dermatologists and specialized practitioners.

The dermatologists in Chesapeake offer a comprehensive range of services, including general dermatology, dermatopathology, and pediatric dermatology. This diversity ensures that residents have access to specialized care for various skin-related concerns.

Many of the dermatologists in Chesapeake are affiliated with reputable hospitals in the area, such as Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and Sentara hospitals, indicating strong ties to the local medical community.

Choosing a Dermatologist in Chesapeake

Key Factors in Dermatologist Selection

Board Certification

• Importance of American Board of Dermatology certification
• Examples: Dr. Larry Legum, Dr. Rachel Byrd, Dr. Ashley Mason

Experience and Specializations

• Years in practice and educational background
• Subspecialties like dermatopathology (Dr. Ashley Mason, Dr. Timothy Gardner)
• Pediatric dermatology (Dr. Judith Williams)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Analyzing star ratings and number of reviews
• Top-rated doctors: Dr. Larry Legum (5.0, 13 reviews), Dr. Rachel Byrd (5.0, 1 review)

Hospital Affiliations

• Local hospital connections (e.g., Chesapeake Regional Medical Center)
• Multiple affiliations as a positive indicator

Personal Preferences and Comfort

Gender Considerations

• Availability of both male and female dermatologists
• Examples: Dr. Michael Gross (male), Dr. Katherine Belote (female)

Language and Communication

• Importance of clear doctor-patient communication
• Multilingual options (e.g., Dr. Michael Gross speaks English and Spanish)

Accessibility and Convenience

Location within Chesapeake

• Proximity to patient's home or work
• Parking and public transportation options

Office Hours and Availability

• Flexible scheduling options
• Wait times for appointments

Top-Rated Dermatologists in Chesapeake

Dr. Larry Legum

Credentials and Experience

• Board certified by the American Board of Dermatology
• Graduated from UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX / NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CAMPUS in 1972

Patient Satisfaction

• Highest star rating of 5.0 based on 13 reviews
• Indicates consistent patient satisfaction

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
• Contact number: (757) 547-9401

Dr. Rachel Byrd

Qualifications

• Board certified by the American Board of Dermatology
• Graduated from SOUTHWEST COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINEHEALTH SCIENCES in 2015

Patient Feedback

• Perfect 5.0 star rating (Note: based on 1 review)
• Suggests positive patient experience, though more reviews would provide a broader perspective

Practice Details

• Multiple hospital affiliations including Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, Sentara Leigh Hospital, and Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
• Contact number: (757) 622-6315

Janel Fellner, PA

Professional Background

• Physician Assistant specializing in dermatology
• Offers an alternative to traditional physician care

Patient Reviews

• Strong star rating of 4.4 based on 10 reviews
• Indicates consistent satisfaction among patients

Contact Information

• Available at (757) 549-2973

Additional Highly Rated Specialists

Dr. Ashley Mason

• Specializes in both dermatology and dermatopathology
• Board certified by the American Board of Dermatology
• Star rating of 4.2 based on 5 reviews

Dr. Timothy Gardner

• Expertise in dermatopathology and general dermatology
• Board certified by the American Board of Dermatology
• Star rating of 3.8 based on 4 reviews

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Dermatologist in Chesapeake

Subspecialties within dermatology

Pediatric dermatology

• Dr. Judith Williams specializes in pediatric dermatology
• Affiliated with Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters

Dermatopathology

• Dr. Ashley Mason and Dr. Timothy Gardner specialize in dermatopathology
• Important for accurate diagnosis of skin conditions

Language considerations

Multilingual practitioners

• Dr. Michael Gross speaks both English and Spanish
• Importance of clear communication in dermatological care

Gender preferences

Available options

• Male dermatologists: Dr. Larry Legum, Dr. Kevin Dehart, Dr. Michael Gross
• Female dermatologists: Dr. Rachel Byrd, Dr. Ashley Mason, Dr. Katherine Belote

Hospital affiliations

Local medical centers

• Chesapeake Regional Medical Center
• Sentara hospitals in the area
• Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center

Importance of hospital affiliations

• Access to additional resources and facilities
• Potential for coordinated care with other specialists