Office dispensing: a responsible approach.

Office dispensing is a value added service in the dermatologist's office. As dermatologists we can recommend products with known scientific validity that will enhance patient care and provide reliable therapeutic results. Patients enjoy the convenience of being able to purchase products in the office and appreciate the dermatologist who spends time outlining a daily skin care regimen. Office dispensing benefits the physician by forcing him or her to keep current on new innovations in skin care and serves as an effective way to develop your cosmetic practice. Antiaging products, moisturizers and sunscreens, cleansers, and acne products are the basics for any in-office dispensing operation. The addition of hair and nail care products constitutes more advanced dispensing. Despite the mutual benefits for both the patient and physician, office dispensing continues to be controversial. The American Medical Association is concerned that selling health-related goods in the office may compromise the patient-physician relationship. The American Academy of Dermatology continues to support the right of dermatologists to dispense products in their office as long as it is in the best interest of the patient, as it is with all other dermatologic care. Dermatologists must preserve the right to dispense by conducting themselves in a highly professional and ethical manner.