A typical healthcare team
Doctors, nurses and other healthcare roles work closely with each other to make sure that you receive the most effective and suitable treatment for your psoriasis.
Your healthcare team may include the following people:
Your GP
Your GP will be the first healthcare professional you see, as you will most likely book an appointment to see your GP when you first think you have a skin problem. GPs see lots of people with skin disorders and receive training in this area, referred to as dermatology. Some practices include a GP with a special interest in dermatology who may help with your diagnosis and treatment.
Many people with psoriasis will be diagnosed and treated by their GP. It is important to tell your GP about your symptoms as soon as possible. The earlier you get a diagnosis, the sooner you can start receiving treatment to manage your psoriasis.
You should try to discuss your psoriasis openly so that your GP can arrange the most appropriate treatment for you and offer any support that you may need.
Practice nurse
For some of your routine check-ups you may see a practice nurse rather than your GP. It is important that you share details of your symptoms with the practice nurse, who is able to help you find the additional support or treatment you may require.
Dermatologist
Your GP may refer you to a dermatologist. Dermatologists are specialists in treating skin disorders and they are usually based in hospitals. They have extensive experience in treating psoriasis and will be able to consider a wider range of treatment options, such as phototherapy that may be more suitable for you.
Dermatology nurse specialist
In the same way that GP surgeries may have practice nurses, dermatology centres may also have dermatology specialist nurses. These nurses will be able to provide you with additional support or discuss any treatment you may require. For example, if you are prescribed phototherapy to treat your psoriasis, these procedures will most likely be carried out by a dermatology nurse specialist in a hospital.
Rheumatologist
If you are diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, your dermatologist may refer you to a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists are specialists in joints and have extensive experience in treating joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is a condition associated with psoriasis which can cause joint pain and swelling. Click here to find out more about psoriatic arthritis.
Other Healthcare Professionals that you may see:
Counsellor, Psychotherapist or Psychiatrist
The effects of psoriasis can cause distress and worry in some people, which may lead to depression. If you feel worried or depressed about your psoriasis, your healthcare team may recommend that you see a counsellor, psychotherapist or psychiatrist. They can help you cope with and overcome this depression or worry. They may also help you to reduce your stress levels, which may improve your psoriasis.