When you come to my office, you know me as Dr. Crutchfield, the Dermatologist who takes care of your medical and cosmetic problems. You may also know me as the media physician who is frequently a guest of local television, radio and newspapers.

Why am I always in the press? Because I feel it is very important to educate my patients and the general public. When a reporter asks me for information, I am more than glad to provide advice.

And in the international medical community, I also feel this is very important. That’s why I am frequently a guest at international medical meetings. For example, I recently gave a presentation on both medical and cosmetic dermatology at a physician’s conference in Mexico.

Sure, all of this takes time and effort. But it is very important. Educating one’s colleagues is an honor and a privilege.

That’s why I’ve spent a significant amount of time writing over 100 scientific and medical articles and co-authoring a textbook of Dermatology. I also dedicate a significant amount of time giving back, educationally, to medical students, residents and college students by having academic appointments as an Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School and Professor of Biology at Carleton College (my alma mater) in Northfield, Minnesota.

You see, education is the fulcrum point of the credibility of any doctor-patient relationship. If there is one thing I will continue to give, it is this.