WONCA Special Interest Group: Dermatology

Dermatology

The global burden of dermatological disease is profound, ranking as the fourth leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) worldwide. WONCA Special Interest Group on Dermatology was approved by the WONCA Council in March 2025. Membership is open to all interested family doctors who have a special interest in Dermatology.

The SIG on Dermatology will focus on three foundational pillars: networking, education, and research. By fostering a collaborative network of practitioners with an interest in dermatology, we aim to enhance the integration of dermatology training and research into primary care practice. Through this initiative, we seek to empower primary care physicians within the WONCA community to better address the dermatological needs of their patients.

Join our SIG

Convenor / Chair

Dr Chan Yuen Ching Cheryl (Hong Kong)

Dr. Chan is a family physician from Hong Kong. She is a passionate advocate for young doctors and a dedicated medical educator. After obtaining her MBBS degree from the University of Hong Kong in 2014, she embarked on specialist training in family medicine. In 2021, she was awarded Fellowships from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Hong Kong College of Family Physician (HKCFP). In the same year, she completed a Master's degree in Practical Dermatology from Cardiff University.

Dr. Chan currently serves as an Honorary Clinical Tutor at the University of Hong Kong. She also served as the representative for the Young Doctors’ Movements (YDMs) at the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) executive.

Dr Anneliese Willems (Australia)

Dr Anneliese Willems is an Australian General Practitioner with a special interest in dermatology and medical education. She is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of General Practice and Primary Care at the University of Melbourne and has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications. She was one of the first 10 GPs in Australia to receive Recognition of Extended Skills in Dermatology and served as co-host of the dermatology education podcast Spot Diagnosis.

Anneliese is currently completing a Master’s in Clinical Education, focusing on dermatology training in primary care. She represents GPs on national dermatology panels, advocating for the role of primary care in skin health.

Co-Convenor or other office bearers

Executive Members

Membership Open?

Vision and Mission of WONCA SIG on Dermatology

The SIG on Dermatology will focus on three key pillars—networking, education, and research.

Facilitate Networking and Collaboration:
- Build a global community of family doctors with a shared interest in dermatology.
- Engage in global advocacy efforts such as World Eczema Day and Skin Cancer Awareness Week.
- Encourage emerging family doctors to participate.
- Explore partnerships and funding opportunities.
Enhance Dermatology Education:
- Highlight the role of family doctors in managing skin conditions.
- Deliver accessible, high-quality dermatology education.
- Provide training on tools like dermoscopy.
- Develop tailored resources such as webinars and case studies.
Advance Research in Primary Care Dermatology:
- Foster research collaborations on dermatology in family medicine.
- Support evidence-based practice and share findings.
- Encourage SIG members to lead or join research projects.

Objectives of the WONCA SIG on Dermatology

To enhance the integration of dermatology training and research into primary care practice.
To empower and enhance family doctors’ knowledge and skills on treating dermatological conditions.
To provide a platform for knowledge exchange amongst family doctors with a special interest in dermatology.

Publications & Documents

Activities

2025

Conference Workshop in WONCA Asia Pacific Region Conference - Busan, South Korea.

Topic: "Derma Trivia for All"

Date: April 25 (Fri), 08:30 - 10:00am

Location: Room 7 / Conference hall B

Organizer: Dr Miriam Rey Seoane

Abstract:

Skincare is an essential yet intricate component of dermatology. Derma Trivia: Skincare Edition is a workshop designed to empower family doctors with skincare expertise through gamified learning. Using case-based and medicine-based knowledge, this trivia engages participants in a fun and educational way.

The trivia covers key aspects such as active ingredients, product types, and treatment options. Sessions encourage discussion and collaborative learning, with debriefing to reinforce key insights.

WONCA APR 2025 workshop session

EYFDM Forum 2025 - Online.

Topic: "Dermatoscope 3.0"

Date: April 26 (Sat), 14:00 - 15:00 CET

Location: Online

Organizer: Dr Raisa Alvarez

Abstract:

Skin lesions are a common concern in Primary Care, with melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer rates rising each year. Early diagnosis is essential, making the dermatoscope a valuable and cost-effective tool, especially for examining ambiguous lesions.

The session aims to help participants interpret dermatoscopy images effectively and differentiate between benign and malignant pathologies.

Webinar - Online (Live streaming).

Title: From Rashes to Acne: Addressing Skin Problems in Primary Care Settings

Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025

Start time: 09:30am UTC

Format: Live streaming

Speakers:

Dr Anneliese Willems - General Practitioner and Senior Lecturer at the University of Melbourne, Co-Chair, WONCA SIG Dermatology (topic: More than a Nappy Rash)
Dr Cheryl Chan - Family Medicine Specialist, Co-Chair, WONCA SIG Dermatology (topic: Acne Vulgaris and Rosacea in Primary Care)
Dr Rochelle Oei-Hicks - General Practitioner and Research Fellow, Founding Member, WONCA SIG Dermatology (topic: Just a Spider Bite...?)

Webinar poster: From Rashes to Acne