Fellow
Elizabeth Garcia Creighton
University of Colorado School of Medicine
Mentor
Lucinda Kohn, MD, MHS
Marin Health Dermatology
Overview
Nearly all people, at some point in their life, are affected by acne. In fact, acne is the most common skin concern in adolescents. Early, effective acne treatment prevents scarring and improves self-esteem, social engagement, and mental health. In contrast, untreated acne is associated with depression, anxiety, suicide and school and work absenteeism.
Hispanic people are largest ethnic minority in the United States; however, most Hispanic adolescents are unable to access dermatology care for acne. Due to financial, language and cultural barriers, Hispanic patients face incredible challenges when seeking dermatology care. This study directly targets this health inequity by developing an acne patient decision aid with and for Hispanic teenagers. With an adolescent acne patient decision aid, Hispanic teens would be able to access dermatology care at a clinic of their choice without prolonged wait times, unnecessary expenses, or traveling far distances.
Status
This project was funded through a 2024 PeDRA Research Fellowship Grant.