National APP Week: Donna Lam Cahill, PA-C, on Persistence, Patient Advocacy, and Finding a Career in Dermatology

In recognition of National APP Week 2026, Dermatology Times and NPPA Connect spoke with Donna Lam Cahill, PA-C, about her journey into dermatology, the evolving role of physician assistants (PAs), and the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and persistence within the profession.

Cahill’s interest in health care began early, particularly after losing her father to renal failure. After gaining experience across multiple specialties before and during PA school, she ultimately found her place in dermatology, drawn to the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and see the tangible effects treatment can have on their confidence and quality of life.

Dermatology Times:

What inspired you to become a physician assistant, and what ultimately drew you to dermatology?

Cahill:

I always knew I wanted to work in health care, especially after losing my dad to renal failure. Before PA school, I gained experience in several different specialties, and my clinical rotations exposed me to even more areas of medicine.

Ultimately, I was drawn to dermatology because I love treating the skin and seeing the direct impact we can have on a patient’s confidence and quality of life. I also love the continuity of care, building relationships with patients, following their progress, and seeing how happy they are with their results is incredibly rewarding.

Dermatology Times:

What does being a PA in dermatology mean to you personally?

Cahill:

Being a PA in dermatology means being an advocate, a support system, and someone patients can turn to regardless of how big or small their concern may be.

It also means being part of a strong community of PAs and NPs where we support one another, learn from each other, and work together to advance our profession and improve patient care.

Dermatology Times:

What is one of the most rewarding parts of caring for dermatology patients?

Cahill:

One of the most rewarding parts is seeing how much a patient can change throughout their treatment journey, from their demeanor at the first visit to the confidence and happiness they have as they start seeing progress.

Being able to go through that process with them and be part of their journey makes everything we do so rewarding.

Dermatology Times:

How has the role of PAs in dermatology evolved since you began practicing?

Cahill:

Since I began practicing, I’ve seen the role of PAs in dermatology continue to grow, with greater autonomy and recognition of the education and expertise we bring to patient care.

There’s also a better understanding that PAs are not simply “assisting” physicians; we are health care providers who evaluate, diagnose, treat, and build our own relationships with patients. I’ve also seen more opportunities for PAs to become involved in leadership, research, education, and advocacy, which continues to advance our profession.

Dermatology Times:

What do you wish more patients—or even other health care professionals—understood about the role PAs play in dermatologic care?

Cahill:

I wish more people understood that providing the best dermatologic care often goes beyond choosing the right treatment. A big part of our role is navigating insurance, prior authorizations, and other barriers to actually get patients the medications they need.

We may know what treatment would be best, but sometimes we have to jump through several hoops behind the scenes to make it accessible. Advocating for our patients throughout that process is a huge part of what we do.

Dermatology Times:

Is there a patient experience or moment in your career that has reminded you why you chose this profession?

Cahill:

No matter how difficult a day, week, or even season of life may be, there is always that one patient who reminds you why you chose this profession.

Seeing a patient’s success and how treatment can positively impact them mentally, physically, and emotionally makes all of the challenges worth it. Those moments remind me why I love what I do.

There is always that one patient who reminds you why you chose this profession. — Donna Lam Cahill, PA-C,

Dermatology Times:

Collaboration is such an important part of dermatology. How do you see APPs contributing to the broader dermatology care team?

Cahill:

PAs and NPs contribute to the broader dermatology team through education, mentorship, collaboration, and giving back to the next generation of providers.

The skin is the largest organ in the body, and dermatology encompasses so much more than cosmetic care. As providers, we manage complex medical conditions, perform procedures, educate patients, and work alongside physicians and other health care professionals to provide comprehensive care.

By learning from one another and sharing our experiences, we can continue to strengthen the dermatology community as a whole.

Dermatology Times:

What advice would you give to a PA or PA student who is interested in pursuing a career in dermatology?

Cahill:

Never give up. If dermatology is truly your goal, keep going after it. Every no gets you one step closer to a yes. I applied to nearly 400 jobs before landing my first dermatology position.

Stay positive, don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s, put your head down, work hard, and keep pushing forward. Persistence really does pay off.

Dermatology Times:

In honor of National APP Week, is there an APP, mentor, colleague, or team you’d like to recognize?

Cahill:

There are honestly too many people to count. Aside from my friends and family who have supported me throughout my journey, and of course my mom, who has been through it for me to get to where I am, I’ve been fortunate to have so many mentors and colleagues who have helped me along the way.

A special shoutout to the leadership team at CTDermNPPA for believing in me and supporting my growth and development. I’m grateful to be part of such an amazing community.

Dermatology Times:

When you think about the future of APPs in dermatology, what are you most excited about?

Cahill:

I’m most excited to see PAs and NPs continue to grow as a community, learn from one another, and advocate for ourselves and the value we bring to dermatology.

I hope to see continued progress in recognition and compensation for the work we do, while also creating a supportive environment where we can build fulfilling careers, stay positive, and truly enjoy what we do.