Building a More Resilient Independent Dermatology Practice

Roman Bronfenbrener, MD, a dermatologist in private practice and a member of the academic faculty at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, discussed the challenges facing today's independent dermatologists, including evolving practice exit strategies, the growing role of private equity, and the importance of peer support. Speaking with Dermatology Times following Clarity's 2026 State of Dermatology Report, Bronfenbrener shared practical advice for physicians looking to build resilient independent practices.¹

The Changing Exit Strategy for Independent Practices

Bronfenbrener said he was not surprised that nearly half of independent dermatologists surveyed had considered selling their practices. He explained that many of the traditional exit strategies available to previous generations of physicians have become increasingly difficult to achieve.

Historically, physicians could transition ownership by bringing on a partner or selling their practice to another dermatologist interested in continuing the business. Today, Bronfenbrener said, those opportunities are becoming less common. At the same time, most physicians want both continuity of care for their patients and financial value for practices they have spent decades building.¹

Private equity has emerged as the primary buyer of many dermatology practices, Bronfenbrener said, but he cautioned that these arrangements may come with additional oversight compared with remaining independent.

Building a Peer Network for Independent Practice

For physicians navigating unfamiliar business decisions, Bronfenbrener said one of the most valuable resources is other independent dermatologists.

"The biggest advice is use your colleagues," Bronfenbrener said.

Although independent physicians may not have many local colleagues facing similar challenges, he encouraged dermatologists to seek out online communities through specialty-specific social media groups. Many common practice management questions, he said, have already been discussed by physicians across the country.

Bronfenbrener recalled feeling isolated after opening his practice in 2021 amid the lingering disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Connecting with other independent dermatologists online gave him access to physicians who had already encountered many of the same operational questions.

"You're not in it alone," he said.

Learning From Others' Experience

Bronfenbrener shared one example from the early days of his practice, when he received cleaning service estimates ranging from approximately $700 to $5,000 per month. Some higher-priced companies marketed themselves as specializing in health care settings, leading him to question whether the additional expense was necessary.

"Healthcare specific is another name for doctors are stupid with their money, and they'll probably buy something that says healthcare specific on it," Bronfenbrener said.

After consulting colleagues about their own vendors and office protocols, Bronfenbrener ultimately selected the lower-cost provider, a decision he said has worked well for his practice.

He said conversations with peers helped him avoid unnecessary expenses and identify practical strategies for running an efficient practice. Bronfenbrener believes independent physicians are better positioned to navigate business challenges by sharing experiences and practical advice with one another.

"As the old saying goes, the rising tide lifts all ships," Bronfenbrener said.

References:

1. Clarity RCM. 2026 State of Dermatology Report. Conducted in collaboration with PureSpectrum. Published June 2026. Accessed July 7, 2026. https://report.clarityrcm.com.