Final answer:
The PMD program is a healthcare management system where patients choose a primary doctor who coordinates all medical care and refers to specialists. Dermatology is a coveted medical specialty with limited residency spots, known for favorable work-life balance and the profitable niche of cosmetic dermatology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Preferred Medical Doctor (PMD) program is a type of managed care system in which patients select a primary care physician who oversees their medical care and makes referrals to specialists when needed. In a PMD program, the primary care doctor acts as a gatekeeper to specialist services, which can help manage healthcare costs and ensure continuity of care. These programs usually have a network of doctors that patients can choose from, and typically require patients to choose a PMD from within this network to receive the maximum level of insurance benefits.
For medical students interested in dermatology, entering a dermatology residency is highly competitive due to the limited number of openings in these programs. Dermatology is favored by many aspiring doctors because it offers a balanced workload compared to other specialties. Additionally, the rise of cosmetic dermatology has made the field even more attractive, with opportunities for specialization in cosmetic procedures that can be quite lucrative.