Aiding relief to the regional dermatology shortage for over 200,000+ regional patients with this unique dermatology model.

Originally Published In: Spa + Clinic

Access to Australian dermatology services can be limited in regional areas due to a shortage of dermatologists and clinics, this can result in longer wait times for appointments, difficulty accessing specialist care, and a lack of preventative and early intervention measures. Without adequate access to dermatology services, individuals in regional areas may be at a higher risk of developing and worsening skin conditions, as well as missing potential diagnosis of the conditions as a starting point. Efforts to improve dermatology accessibility in regional areas, such as telehealth and outreach programs, have been identified as crucial in addressing this shortage and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

For leading Dermatologist Dr Shobhan Manoharan and his wife Dr Patricia Manoharan, this was a significant gap in the healthcare sector, and as of early 2023, they have expanded their line of speciality dermatology practices (named Eczema, Psoriasis and Vitiligo Clinics) to regional Victoria, based in the regional yet largely populated town of Geelong.

SPA+CLINIC caught up with Dr Shobhan to discuss their decision process in opening in a rural location, and how their approach can increase accessibility to dermatologists for patients.

What led you to opening your specialty practices (Eczema, Psoriasis & Vitiligo Clinics)?

My wife, Patricia, and I have always had a passion for rural and regional health provision, and have understood the significant challenges that individuals in those communities face in obtaining high-quality, rapid access health services.

Over the years, I have spent time as a dermatologist in Mt Isa and other regional areas in Australia and the UK, and have also been one of the pioneers of Teledermatology in Australia, to provide healthcare to those unable to physically get to a dermatologist for a consult or treatment.

Eczema and Psoriasis are 2 of the most common skin conditions, affecting 2-20% of the population. Vitiligo is a passion for me and I wanted patients to be able to access our expertise rapidly.

So, Eczema/Psoriasis/Vitiligo Clinics Australia, were set up with the intention of enabling patients in both metropolitan and particularly regional centres to have rapid access to dermatology specialist services for these particular conditions which require timely intervention and often regular follow ups and treatments.