Dermpath for APC
About Dermpath for APC
DermPath for APC is a specialized medical education platform dedicated to making dermatopathology practical and accessible for advanced practice clinicians and primary care physicians who perform skin biopsies. Founded by Dr. Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, FAAD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, the organization bridges a critical educational gap by helping clinicians understand the relationship between skin biopsy procedures, pathology findings, and clinical decision-making.
Through continuing medical education courses, targeted educational resources, and its DermPath: Pearls & Pitfallsnewsletter, DermPath for APC provides practical training designed to strengthen dermatopathology knowledge and clinical confidence. Its educational approach emphasizes translating complex pathology concepts into actionable insights that help nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physicians better interpret pathology reports and make informed patient care decisions. By focusing on the real-world needs of clinicians, DermPath for APC seeks to improve diagnostic understanding, clinical decision-making, and the quality of dermatologic care.
About the Dermatopathology Fundamentals
Dermatopathology Fundamentals is a six-hour enduring continuing education activity designed to strengthen healthcare professionals’ knowledge and practical application of dermatopathology in clinical practice. Led by Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, the course is designed for dermatology nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and primary care clinicians who perform skin biopsies and interpret pathology results.
Through practical, clinically focused instruction, participants will explore the essential principles of dermatopathology, including appropriate biopsy techniques, tissue processing, specimen handling, and effective communication with pathologists. The activity addresses biopsy considerations for common clinical presentations, including rashes, melanocytic and non-melanocytic lesions, alopecia, and nail conditions, as well as indications for direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and tissue cultures. Learners will also develop skills in interpreting pathology reports and understanding commonly used descriptive terminology.
By bridging the gap between biopsy procedures and pathology interpretation, this activity equips healthcare professionals with practical strategies to improve specimen quality, strengthen diagnostic communication, and make informed clinical decisions. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices that support accurate diagnosis, reduce unnecessary repeat biopsies, and improve patient care outcomes.
How Pinnacle Supported Dermpath for APC Through Joint Providership
Learn at Pinnacle partnered with Dermpath for APC to provide continuing education accreditation for Dermatopathology Fundamentals, a six-hour enduring educational activity designed to help healthcare professionals strengthen their dermatopathology knowledge and clinical decision-making skills. Through its joint providership model, Pinnacle supported the accreditation process, including educational planning, content review, faculty disclosures, conflict-of-interest management, and alignment with accreditation standards. Pinnacle also supported learner evaluations, knowledge assessments, and CE certification, providing opportunities for physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants to earn continuing education credit while developing practical skills in skin biopsy techniques, specimen handling, pathology interpretation, and communication with pathologists. This collaboration enabled Dermpath for APC to focus on delivering accessible, clinically relevant dermatopathology education while Pinnacle supported the accreditation requirements and learner credit process.
