
Career decisions in dermatology are too often driven by emotion rather than data, according to a new practice management column examining common pitfalls in contract evaluation and compensation negotiations.

Joseph Gatti, DMSc, MPAS, MBA, PA-C, is a board-certified dermatology physician associate and co-owner of The Clinic for Dermatology & Wellness, LLC, and Pure Medspa, LLC, in Medford, Oregon. Through Azimuth Consultants, he advises clinicians nationwide on employment contracts, compensation strategy, and practice operations.

Career decisions in dermatology are too often driven by emotion rather than data, according to a new practice management column examining common pitfalls in contract evaluation and compensation negotiations.

Employment contracts can have enormous financial and career consequences, yet many clinicians review them too casually before signing.

Offers must pair strong compensation with operational and cultural support to succeed.

Successful negotiation integrates compensation, productivity, procedural access, and autonomy to create a sustainable, well-valued clinical role.

Clinician contract negotiation is often treated as administrative, but it directly affects pay, autonomy, workflow, and career trajectory.

Joseph Gatti, DMSc, MPAS, MBA, PA-C, discusses the impact of social media and AI on dermatology, urging professionals to adapt and educate in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Joseph Gatti, DMSc, MPAS, MBA, highlights the importance of collaboration between PAs and dermatologists, emphasizing mutual respect and the role of PAs in enhancing patient care.

March 23rd 2026

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