Military practice

Military dermatology overview

Military dermatology involves practicing as a commissioned medical officer in one of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Dermatologists in the military provide medical, surgical, and sometimes cosmetic care for active-duty service members, their families, and retirees. This model represents a small fraction of dermatology careers, around 1%, but comes with unique responsibilities, benefits, and lifestyle considerations.

Why dermatologists choose this

• Stable employment with government-funded salary and benefits.

• Service-oriented mission with opportunity to support military personnel.

• Loan repayment and tuition assistance options.

• Access to advanced medical technology and global clinical exposure.

• Structured promotion and career advancement within the military system.

How this model works

Employment and structure

Military dermatologists are officers who sign contracts for a fixed term of service, usually between 3-7 years. You’ll undergo military training and be stationed at a base, potentially stateside or overseas. Employment is governed by military service agreements rather than civilian contracts, but these still outline compensation, duties, and expectations.

Patient care model

Care is typically provided in military treatment facilities, where dermatologists manage skin diseases, perform surgeries, and treat combat-related skin issues. There’s a strong emphasis on medical dermatology and readiness for deployment-related conditions. Cosmetic procedures may be less emphasized.

Administrative support

Military dermatologists benefit from full administrative infrastructure including billing, credentialing, HR, and compliance which are all handled by the government system. However, military protocols and procedures often dictate daily workflows, limiting personal flexibility.

Compensation and incentives

Salaries are based on military rank and years of service, not productivity. Benefits include housing stipends, comprehensive health coverage, retirement pensions, and generous paid leave. Bonus pay may apply for board certification or hazardous duty.

Technology and operations

Military dermatology uses government-approved EHR systems such as MHS GENESIS. Access to advanced dermatologic technologies may vary by facility. Operations are guided by military protocols, with high standards for documentation, cybersecurity, and patient privacy. Teledermatology is often used for remote bases or deployed environments, and coordination with military-wide systems supports continuity of care across locations.

Career growth

Advancement is determined by promotion through military ranks. Dermatologists may move into leadership roles such as department chief, hospital commander, or academic educator. While ownership isn’t an option, military careers offer structured advancement and retirement security.

When this model makes sense

• For dermatologists with a strong interest in public service and national defense.

• If you’re looking for a structured, stable early-career path with excellent benefits.

• When you value serving a defined population with minimal business obligations.

• If you’re interested in global assignments, military lifestyle, and camaraderie.

Success factors

• Read your military employment agreement carefully as these contracts are legally binding and often long-term.

• Understand your rights and obligations, including deployment risks and transfer potential.

• Consult a legal or employment expert familiar with military contracts.

• Clarify expectations around clinical duties, research, and leadership development.

• Prepare for cultural and lifestyle differences unique to military environments.

Potential challenges

• Limited control over location and career mobility as assignments are determined by military needs.

• Lower base salary compared to high-earning private practices, though this is somewhat offset by benefits.

• Obligations related to rank, military training, and chain of command.

• Deployment and relocation can impact family and personal life.

• Exit strategies require planning because contracts often include multi-year commitments.

Real-world example

James Contestable, MD, FAAD, and a member of the U.S. Navy, notes that there are many advantages to military service: practicing medicine without financial interest, more time with patients, unlimited leadership opportunities, relative ease and support of off-label medications, exceptional opportunities for humanitarian assistance, overseas assignments, etc. However, there are some major disadvantages of military service such as frequent relocations, less control over working hours, and less control of facilities, HR, and services. Dr. Contestable also notes that while military service may seem rigid, opportunities exist to “create your own path” for those that wish to do so.

Early career advice

• Understand how military commitment affects long-term career flexibility and location.

• Review contract terms carefully, especially regarding service duration and exit clauses.

• Ask about deployment risk, research opportunities, and continuing education.

• Explore options for loan repayment or scholarship programs (HPSP, FAP).

• Consider this model if you're seeking stability, purpose, and strong post-service benefits.

Related AAD resources

• Practice types: See our full menu of resources on practice types, from solo to institutional.

• Get started: Access our guide to getting started in practice, with resources on practice types and policies and procedures.

• Employment guide: See all our resources on contracts, questions for employers, and more.

This content was created with the particular needs of early-career dermatologists in mind. See the rest of our Career Launch resources for young physicians.