The Value of Networking and Education for Dermatology NPs and PAs

Lakshi Aldredge, MSN, ANP-BC, DCNP, FAANP, a dermatology nurse practitioner (NP) in Beaver Creek, Oregon, recently spoke with Dermatology Times at the Horizons in Advanced Practice meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. As a co-chair of the meeting, she discussed the educational and networking value of the meeting for dermatology NPs and physician assistants (PAs). She also previewed session topics including oral peptides in psoriasis and JAK inhibitors in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

Value for Dermatology NPs and PAs

Aldredge called Horizons in Advanced Practice one of the most profound meetings for newer dermatology NPs and PAs. The intimate audience setting gives attendees access to updated, evidence-based information on immune-mediated dermatoses. She said these conditions can be among the most difficult for novice advanced practice providers to grasp.

“I think it’s one of the most profound meetings, especially for newer derm NPs and PAs, because it really gives you a very intimate audience setting,” Aldredge said.

Oral Peptides in Psoriasis

Aldredge said she is most excited about the latest data on oral peptides in psoriasis, describing the data as revolutionizing how clinicians treat the disease. She has practiced for 26 years and remembers the arrival of the first biologics, which she called transformational for patients. Biologics have improved quality of life and comorbidities associated with psoriasis, she said.

A newly approved oral option, icotrokinra, now offers biologic-like safety and efficacy in a once-daily molecule. Aldredge noted injectables do not suit every patient.

“As great as biologics are, injectables are not for everyone,” Aldredge said.

JAK Inhibitors in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Looking toward 2027, Aldredge said she is most excited about the role of JAK inhibitors across immune-mediated dermatoses. She singled out HS, a condition with few great treatment options for patients to date. Evidence is emerging for newer biologics and oral JAK inhibitors in HS.

“Very specifically, the data in hidradenitis suppurativa is super exciting,” Aldredge said.

She described the evidence as “phenomenal and very exciting.” In her view, it offers a treatment making a true difference in halting disease progression and improving quality of life in HS.

For more Horizons content, click here.