The system of awarding academic titles to dermatologists primarily in community practice, as well as to those who volunteer in academic departments, needs reappraisal. It is our sense that this issue is on the minds of many physicians in academic departments of dermatology but has not been openly discussed. A less prevalent issue of inequities of academic titles within teaching institutions and the lack of such titles for some educators in training programs without academic affiliations is also addressed. These opinions are based on our own experience, reflections, and thoughts shared informally among colleagues. Our aim is to stimulate broad discussion of these topics with the acknowledgment that the education of residents will continue to be benefitted by the inclusion of community practitioners.
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