We’re shining the ProjectIMPACT Spotlight on Rebecca Vaquez, MD. Dr. Vasquez is interviewed by Roy Mendoza, a medical student at University of California, Riverside School of Medicine and VisualDx Student Advisory Board member.
How has your experience been in tailoring dermatological care to meet the specific needs and concerns of the Latinx population? Can you share any insights into culturally informed dermatological practices?
Dr. Vasquez: Understanding both cultural nuances and preferences of individuals who are part of the Latinx community is essential. For instance, some Latinx individuals may prefer home remedies or traditional treatments that have been passed down for generations over pharmaceutical options. Being respectful of these preferences while providing evidence-based care is important.
Dermatological conditions can vary across different ethnicities. In your practice, what are some of the common dermatological issues that you frequently address among the Latinx community, and how do you approach these cases?
Dr. Vasquez: I treat a number of individuals within the Latinx community who develop pigmentary conditions like melasma, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and vitiligo. Prior to developing a treatment plan, I like to hear from patients regarding their understanding of their skin condition, including their beliefs and practices related to skin health. I make an effort to tailor the therapy so that it meets the patients’ needs or preferences, whether related to lifestyle or cultural or structural considerations. For instance, with vitiligo, treatment can be resource intensive and time consuming. It is important for me to remain flexible and creative when providing treatment options.
Skin tone and type can significantly impact the manifestation of skin conditions. How do you ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans, considering the diverse range of skin tones within the Latinx population?
Dr. Vasquez: I try to stay updated on advances in dermatology research and continue learning about best practices for diagnosing and treating skin conditions in diverse populations. Collaboration with colleagues, including dermatologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists, has also provided valuable insights. More importantly, I also work in a healthcare system that provides care to patients who are disproportionately individuals with skin of color. These patients have taught me valuable lessons about their skin health; lessons that cannot be taught but learned through caring for diverse individuals.
Building trust is crucial in healthcare. How do you establish rapport and trust with your Latinx patients, and are there cultural considerations that guide your patient interactions?
Dr. Vasquez: Latinx communities value the importance of communication, including verbal and nonverbal, in interpersonal relationships. Whenever possible, try to communicate with patients in their preferred language. If you do not speak Spanish fluently, then consider using a professional interpreter or bilingual staff member to facilitate communication.
Take time to actively listen to their concerns, experiences, and preferences. Validate their feelings and perspectives to demonstrate empathy and understanding.
Finally, demonstrate commitment to their wellbeing by providing follow-up care. Continuity of care can strengthen the rapport between Latinx patients and their provider over time.
Are there prevalent misconceptions or cultural beliefs related to skincare within the Latinx community that you frequently encounter, and how do you navigate these in your practice?
Dr. Vasquez: As a pigmentary specialist, I often hear of different home remedies used to treat discoloration of the skin. One home remedy that is not uncommon among Latinx communities is applying lemon juice to the skin to help lighten dark spots or hyperpigmentation. However, lemon juice is acidic and can cause skin irritation and increased sensitivity to the sunlight—both of which can result in worse discoloration over time.
I try approach these conversations with understanding and empathy. It’s important for me to validate their past experiences as well as provide additional insight as to why a particular remedy could be counterproductive. I seek to be as transparent as possible and encourage dialogue to address any questions or concerns.
As a dermatologist working closely with the Latinx community, what changes or improvements would you like to see in the broader healthcare system to better address the dermatological needs of this population?
Dr. Vasquez: Despite ever-improving treatment options, disease-specific dermatologic disparities exist within the Latinx community. Beyond training culturally sensitive dermatologists to help eliminate health disparities in this community, it is urgent that we recruit and retain more dermatologists who identify as Latinx and incorporate trainings to understand the history, culture, and social determinants of health affecting the Latinx communities we are treating.
This Project IMPACT blog series was created to highlight leaders who are making a positive impact in healthcare by reducing racial bias in medicine.