Beyond Supervision: Redefining the Modern PA–Dermatologist Partnership
Recorded On: 11/08/2025
1.0 AAPA Category 1 CME credit
A thriving PA-Dermatologist partnership is the cornerstone of successful dermatology practices—benefiting patients, providers, and the profession as a whole. In this engaging general session, Joseph Gatti, DMSc, MBA, PA-C, and Dr. Curtis Lamar Hardy, a triple-board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, share real-world insights from years of working together. The discussion will cover practical strategies for establishing trust, clarifying roles, managing communication, and navigating the evolving dynamics of team-based care. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to strengthen their collaborative relationships while advocating for PA growth and autonomy within a respectful, collegial framework.
Dermatology is inherently a collaborative discipline, requiring clear communication and a strong partnership between dermatologists and physician associates. It is through this unified, team-based approach that we elevate patient care to its highest standard while fostering a professional and fulfilling work environment.
At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify three core elements that foster trust and mutual respect between a PA and supervising/collaborating physician;
- Apply strategies to define roles, responsibilities, and boundaries in a way that supports both clinical excellence and professional growth;
- Identify potential points of tension in physician–patient relationships and utilize effective communication tools to resolve them constructively;
- Incorporate lessons from real-world PA-Physician partnerships into their own practice to improve patient outcomes and workplace satisfaction;
- Recognize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between dermatologists and physician associates in delivering high-quality dermatologic care;
- Demonstrate effective communication strategies that enhance teamwork, clinical efficiency, and patient-centered outcomes in dermatology practice;
- Explore approaches to fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture that supports professional growth and job satisfaction among team members.
Joseph Gatti, DMSc, MPAS, MBA, PA-C
Founder
The Clinic for Dermatology & Wellness, LLC, and Pure Medspa, LLC
Joseph Gatti is a nationally recognized leader in dermatology and aesthetics, whose career bridges advanced clinical care, business strategy, and industry innovation. A West Point graduate and decorated U.S. Army veteran with 16 years of service, he brings a rare blend of operational precision, leadership discipline, and patient-centered vision to every role he undertakes.
As the founder of The Clinic for Dermatology & Wellness, LLC, and Pure Medspa, LLC, in Medford, Oregon, Joseph has built two thriving practices that together serve over 28,000 patients and encompass one of the largest and most technologically advanced medical spas on the West Coast. Under his direction, Pure Medspa has become a regional destination for advanced laser surgery, energy-based devices, injectables, and integrative skin health—anchored in dermatology-based protocols and uncompromising safety standards.
Joseph is also the co-founder of Azimuth Consultants, a national advisory firm helping dermatology clinics, plastic surgeons, and medical spas optimize revenue cycles, improve operational efficiency, strengthen patient experience, and achieve sustainable, measurable growth. He is a frequent mentor and contributor on the Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) and American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) forums, guiding colleagues on leadership transitions, PA-dermatologist partnerships, and strategic practice management in a changing economic and policy landscape. Joseph is known for his candid assessments and feedback, offered without regard to popularity, which has earned him a reputation as a trusted voice for both emerging and established leaders in the field.
His expertise spans full-spectrum dermatology—from complex medical and surgical cases to high-end cosmetic and laser procedures—paired with deep business insight from an MBA and Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) in Administrative Medicine. Whether advising a start-up medical spa, negotiating a practice acquisition, or presenting at a national conference, Joseph is known for delivering content that is actionable, data-driven, and inspiring.
A compelling speaker who blends clinical mastery with real-world business acumen, Joseph Gatti empowers attendees to elevate patient care, build stronger partnerships, and lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving dermatology landscape.
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