by Clay Whorton, PA-C, Laura Stigge, PA-C, Robert Higham, MPAS, PA-C, and Diane Hanna, DNP, DCNP, FAANP
Introduction
Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) are transforming dermatology, with over 4,500 PAs and 3,500 NPs now comprising more than half of the clinicians providing dermatologic care. As frontline providers, they tackle daily challenges in the clinic, forge lasting patient connections, and deliver compassionate care. Yet, personal growth, evolving interests, and life’s demands might prompt some to explore alternative paths to leverage their skills while continuing to serve patients.
For many, the answer lies beyond the exam room in roles like medical affairs or other industry positions. These opportunities allow NPs and PAs to influence dermatology on a broader scale. Instead of treating dozens of patients daily, you can shape therapies, lead clinical trials, or develop educational programs that impact thousands of lives. This transition isn’t about leaving clinical roots behind, it’s about applying expertise in new ways to enhance patient care.
At Arcutis Biotherapeutics, NPs and PAs are not just welcomed, they are celebrated as leaders. Diane Hanna, DNP, DCNP, FAANP, serves as Vice President of Medical Affairs, shaping dermatology strategy at the highest level. NPs and PAs hold key roles as Medical Science Liaisons, contribute to clinical trial activities, develop continuing medical education, author publications, collaborate with medical societies and patient advocacy groups, and train commercial teams. Their clinical perspective ensures patient’s needs remain central, grounding innovation in real-world insights.
Laura Stigge, PA-C, reflects on her transition: “Moving from a dermatology practice to a medical science liaison role allows me to blend patient care experience with science, sharing insights internally and with my NP/PA colleagues. At Arcutis, NPs and PAs contribute to publications, advisory boards, and meaningful scientific work, which are opportunities rarely available in daily practice.”
What Can Set NPs and PAs Apart in Industry Roles
NPs and PAs bring a unique perspective shaped by clinical experience. We understand patients’ personal struggles, navigate challenges like prior authorizations, and balance evidence-based medicine with real-world realities. In industry, this perspective is invaluable, adding authenticity to peer education, credibility to provider engagement, and practicality to our scientific approach. Our insights ensure innovations are not only exciting but also actionable in practice.
NPs and PAs bring distinctive expertise to dermatology at Arcutis Biotherapeutics, particularly in medical affairs, where their clinical insights enhance Phase II proof-of-concept trial design by identifying enrollment barriers and optimizing data relevance for clinicians and patients. Their frontline experience also excels in educational settings, where they distill complex scientific data into actionable feedback that resonates with providers, effectively bridging research and clinical practice.
Transitioning from clinic to industry can feel intimidating, as many NPs and PAs are unaware of suitable roles or how to pursue them. A practical first step involves connecting with medical science liaisons or colleagues who have transitioned, while exploring opportunities that align with their skills and passions. Success in industry demands robust cross-functional collaboration with teams such as clinical development, marketing, regulatory, compliance, and others, alongside navigating communication regulations with external stakeholders like healthcare providers and advocacy groups. NPs and PAs shine in translating science and data across these diverse teams, making them indispensable partners.
Though the shift might initially feel challenging, the ability to apply clinical expertise in innovative ways empowers them to shape dermatology’s future, extending the impact far beyond the exam room, which many find to be profoundly rewarding. Robert Higham, MPAS, PA-C, shares: “The transition from clinic to the biotech industry wasn’t about leaving medicine behind, it was about expanding its reach. Here, I still use my clinical knowledge every day, but in a different way that provides the opportunity to shape the future of dermatology for patients and clinicians.”
Extending Impact Beyond Industry
NPs and PAs in industry also champion their communities. Clay Whorton, PA-C, notes: “I’m passionate about supporting NP and PA societies, attending meetings, and building partnerships that advance learning and create meaningful opportunities for NPs and PAs. It’s about helping our colleagues grow and have a seat at the table.”
At Arcutis, we’re committed to ensuring NP and PA voices are heard and supported. Structured career pathways, mentorship, conference participation, and publication opportunities all reflect our investment in NP and PA leadership. Just as importantly, this helps shift the old perception that moving into industry means “stepping away” from care. The reality is quite the opposite, as NPs and PAs are stepping up to amplify their impact.
The Takeaway
NP and PA skills extend far beyond the bedside. Our ability to listen, solve problems, and translate science into meaningful care is exactly what industry needs. At Arcutis and across dermatology, NPs and PAs are not just part of the conversation, they’re leading it. Whether you stay in the clinic or explore industry roles, your expertise is indispensable. Every patient you’ve cared for and every challenge you’ve overcome prepares you to shape dermatology in new ways. When NP and PA voices are amplified, the entire field, and the patients we serve, benefits.
For those considering industry roles, your clinical experience is not just transferable, it’s indispensable. Explore opportunities, connect with peers, and recognize that your voice matters in shaping the future of dermatology.