M. Verheijden1, 2, D. Murrell1, 3, H. Martens2, 4
Background: Dermatology became a separate discipline of medicine in the Netherlands in the 19th century, following the famous French ‘Hôpital Saint-Louis’ in Paris (18th century). The first dermatology chair was established at the University of Amsterdam in 1867. [1] Nowadays, the five year dermatology program is offered by 8 university hospitals and 22 peripheral hospitals. Average training of 1 to 2 year in dermatology or experience as a PhD-student before applying to the program is recommended.
Methods: The authors describe the dermatology training and practice in the Netherlands based upon a literature review.
Results: In 2004, there were 350 registered dermatologists and 95 dermatologists in training serving a population of 16.26 million (1 per 46500). In 2014, there were 493 registered dermatologists and 105 dermatologists in training serving a population of 16.83 million (1 per 361000). In 2016, there were 589 dermatologists and 190 dermatologists in training serving a population of 17.2 million (1 per 29200). [2]
A total of 78 dermatologists (51% women), approximately 191 (50% women) dermatologists in training and 42 (51% women) PhD-students work in the university hospitals. 14 dermatologists have been appointed as a professor, of which 3 are women (21%).
Conclusions: The number of dermatologists has grown over the past few years. Overall, there are more women dermatologists or dermatologists in training, but relatively more men are appointed as professors. Job prospects after completing the training is relatively good. No further examinations need to be performed for practising in Europe.
[1] Menke H., van Everdingen J., Faber W. (2014). Dutch contributions to dermatology. Belvèdére Publishers Limited.
[2] Stichting Capaciteitsorgaan voor Medische en Tandheelkundige Vervolgopleidingen (2016). Capaciteitsplan 2016. Rijksoverheid.