We had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Catherine Ni, a renowned dermatologist practicing at Wieder Dermatology in Los Angeles. In this exclusive Q&A, Dr. Ni shares insights into her background, clinical interests, and her holistic approach to skin health and wellness. Here’s what she had to say.
Q&A Session with Dr. Catherine Ni
Q: Can you tell us about your background in dermatology?
Dr. Catherine Ni: My passion for dermatology ignited during medical school. I was drawn to fields that allowed for visual diagnosis and fostered long-term relationships with patients. Dermatology is unique in that it enables me to diagnose conditions visually and witness tangible improvements in my patient’s skin health.
Q: What are your main areas of clinical interest?
Dr. Ni: My clinical interests are diverse and include dermoscopy, skin cancer detection and prevention, psoriasis, acne, and various skin rashes. Each of these areas requires a specialized approach, which makes my practice especially rewarding.
Q: Where did you receive your medical training?
Dr. Ni: I completed my medical degree at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine from 2012 to 2016, followed by an internship in Internal Medicine at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center. I then completed my dermatology residency at UCLA from 2017 to 2020.
Q: Are you currently accepting new patients?
Dr. Ni: Yes, I am welcoming new patients at Wieder Dermatology.
Q: What services do you offer at your practice?
Dr. Ni: I provide comprehensive medical dermatology care, including routine skin exams and minor cosmetic procedures. Our goal is to address all aspects of skin health in a comfortable and caring environment.
Q: How can patients book an appointment with you?
Dr. Ni: You can book appointments by calling our office at 310-207-8900. We look forward to meeting new patients and providing them with personalized dermatology care.
Q: Why did you choose Wieder Dermatology to practice medicine?
Dr. Ni: I chose Wieder Dermatology because it allows me to prioritize patient care in a small, private practice setting. Here, I can build lasting relationships and provide personalized care, which is central to my approach to dermatology.
Q: What is your approach to patient education and partnership?
Dr. Ni: I strongly believe in educating my patients and forming partnerships with them to achieve their skin health goals. Understanding their unique needs and histories enables me to provide tailored treatments that not only address their conditions but also improve their overall well-being.
Q: Do you offer telehealth services?
Dr. Ni: Currently, I do not offer telehealth services. However, we strive to accommodate patients with scheduling that suits their needs.
Q: What are the best methods for skin cancer prevention?
Dr. Ni: I advocate for several preventive measures, including seeking shade during peak sun hours, using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and undergoing regular skin exams. Education about the signs of skin cancer is also crucial.
Q: Can you help with chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and acne?
Dr. Ni: Absolutely, managing chronic conditions like psoriasis and acne is a significant part of my practice. We focus on both therapeutic treatments and lifestyle adjustments to manage and alleviate symptoms.
Q: What is your philosophy on skin health and wellness?
Dr. Ni: I believe that skin health is integral to overall health. My approach involves treating the whole patient through a combination of therapeutics, diet, and lifestyle optimization to promote healthy skin.
Q: How are you involved in the dermatology community in Los Angeles?
Dr. Ni: Besides my practice, I am a Health Sciences Clinical Instructor at UCLA and work part-time at the West LA VA Medical Center. There, I train dermatology residents and engage in various academic activities, contributing to the future of dermatology.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Dr. Ni: I love reading and listening to audiobooks. I also cherish spending time with my husband and our two Shetland sheepdogs. These activities recharge me and enrich my personal life, allowing me to provide the best care to my patients.