Welcome to Dermatology at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora - Southern
What is Dermatology?
Dermatology is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails.
The skin is the largest and most visible organ of the body. It reflects the health of the body and acts as a barrier against injury and bacteria. Unfortunately, at one time or another, nearly everyone has some type of skin disease - infants, children, teenagers, adults and the elderly.
What is a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who has specialised in dermatology. Advanced training in dermatology involves at least four years of intensive study, research and practical experience in a variety of approved training centres across New Zealand and overseas. In total, your dermatologist will have a minimum of 13 years' training.
Dermatology at Southland and Dunedin Hospitals
We are currently working to create a South Island Dermatology Service and at this time we are not able to offer any Dermatology outpatient appointments.
During this time, if you have any concern regarding your ongoing condition please make an appointment with your General Practitioner.
We are aware that some patients are on medication that requires a Special Authority or a Specialist Endorsement. We have provided information to the General Practitioners as to how they can ensure that these are maintained for you.
Some patients also receive medication in hospital for their dermatological condition – please be assured your treatment remains unaffected.
We know that this news will be distressing to patients and are very sorry that we are currently unable to offer Dermatology outpatient appointments.
We will provide you with any updates as we have them available to us.
Sun Smart
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in New Zealand. Skin cancer is largely preventable. Over 90% of all skin cancer is attributed to excess sun exposure. All New Zealanders are encouraged to be SunSmart and to “Slip, slop, slap and wrap”.
For more information about SunSmart or sun protection visit: https://otago-southland.cancernz.org.nz/
Additional Information
These websites offers a wealth of information about skin diseases, treatments, the latest news, and much more.
DermNet NZ: www.dermnetnz.org
New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated: https://www.nzdsi.org/index.aspx