Rod Hanners, CEO of Keck Medicine of USC, talks with the director of the USC Skin of Color and Pigmentary Disorder Program.
“Conversations with Rod” is a video series featuring Rod Hanners, CEO of Keck Medicine of USC, talking with Keck Medicine doctors about our innovative medical care and research. In this video, Hanners sat down with Nada Elbuluk, MD, a dermatologist at Keck Medicine, to discuss the specialized care you can get at the USC Skin of Color and Pigmentary Disorder Program. Watch the full video below — or read excerpts from their conversation.
Interview Excerpts
What is the USC Skin of Color and Pigmentary Disorder Program?
Nada Elbuluk, MD: I specialize in skin of color conditions and pigmentary conditions. When I came to Keck Medicine a couple of years ago, I had a vision for creating a premier center that really specialized, both in a clinic and a research standpoint, in conditions that affect skin of color and pigmentary disorders. I had the support of my chair, David Peng, to do that. And we’ve really been able to build — and are continuing to build — a really wonderful program that’s here to take care of the needs of this unique population.
How are you helping to build awareness and education about skin conditions?
NE: Even though the rates of skin cancer are lower in people of color, when they are diagnosed with it, it’s often at later stages and often with higher morbidity and mortality. And that’s something we really need to change. Because if you catch skin cancer early, it’s treatable. If you’re protecting yourself, it’s often preventable. Doing education in that area is so important so that people have that on their radar.
What drives your passion for medicine?
NE: I really am very passionate about diversity and equity inclusion. I bring that passion into my love for medicine and wanting to make sure that all people receive the best health care possible. I’m very big on health equity and improving health disparities, particularly for those communities that have been the most marginalized.
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