Both are qualified doctors who care for skin, hair and nail conditions. The key differences are in the depth of specialist training, the complexity of cases they manage, and where they work.
Dr Ravi has worked closely with Consultant Dermatologists at the Royal Free Hospital in London, gaining valuable experience in managing a wide range of skin conditions, including skin cancer, while receiving high quality training. He was accredited as a GPwER by the Royal College of General Practitioners, which developed its official pathways in collaboration with the British Association of Dermatology. His expertise was recognised when he was invited to join a renowned Harley Street clinic. Today, Dr Ravi maintains strong professional relationships with Consultant colleagues, ensuring that patients at Sk:inspire Medical have seamless access to the highest level of specialist care whenever required.
GP with an Extended Role (GPwER) in Dermatology is a General Practitioner who has additional training and experience in skin disease. They manage common conditions and perform selected procedures. Some GPwER also lead clinics and certain dermatology departments on the NHS as well working in the private sector.
A Consultant Dermatologist has completed full specialist training and is listed on the specialist register. They diagnose and treat the full spectrum of skin disease, including complex or rare conditions and advanced therapies.
Fast access for assessment of your concern
Severe, recurrent, atypical or treatment-resistant conditions that a GPwER has been unable to help
Consideration of advanced systemic therapies (e.g., biologics) or complex diagnostic testing
A GPwER is a fully qualified GP who undertakes additional structured dermatology training and supervised practice to provide enhanced care beyond standard general practice.
Yes. Both are medically qualified doctors. A Consultant Dermatologist has completed full higher specialist training in dermatology and typically works in hospital specialist services.
Absolutely. Many patients start with a GPwER for speed and convenience; we haven’t had to but if needed, we can help arrange a smooth escalation to a Consultant with shared notes and continuity.
| Aspect | GP with Extended Role (GPwER) | Consultant Dermatologist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary training | Medical degree → Foundation training → GP specialty training. GP with extra dermatology education, exams, clinics and practice. | Medical degree → Foundation training → Dedicated dermatology specialist training. Specialist on the relevant register. |
| Typical conditions | Acne, eczema/dermatitis, psoriasis (mild–moderate), rosacea, fungal infections, warts, skin lesions, moles, rashes, hair and nail problems. | All of the left plus complex/rare rashes, severe psoriasis/eczema, autoimmune and blistering diseases, complex acne, advanced diagnostics. |
| Procedures | Cryotherapy, shave/curettage, excisions/biopsies, injections. | Cryotherapy, shave/curettage, excisions/biopsies, injections, MOHS surgery. |
| Medicines | Topicals and selected systemic treatments under agreed protocols; can initiate and monitor many therapies. | All dermatology medicines including complex immunomodulators and biologics. |
| Skin cancer pathway | Assessment and triage of suspicious lesions; can manage low-risk benign lesions. Refers confirmed or high-risk cancers into specialist hospital teams. | Leads diagnosis and treatment within cancer pathways, including surgery and multidisciplinary team (MDT) care. |
| Setting | Often faster access. Great for step-up care from seeing a GP. | Hospital or specialist centres; ideal for complex work-ups and advanced treatments. Needed for escalation. |