Dermatology Alumni

Joan Fernandez, M.D., AY ’23 Mohs fellow, reflects on her fellowship as it comes to a close

Joan found her passion for healthcare at a young age, inspired by her father’s dedication as a trauma surgeon. Throughout her medical school journey, she explored various specialties but felt a profound calling toward dermatology. The dynamic nature of the field, blending medical expertise with surgical skills, resonated deeply with her desire to continually evolve as a physician. Under the guidance of mentors, like her residency program director, Soo Jung Kim, M.D., Ph.D., and her Mohs surgical team mentors, Ida Orengo, M.D., Ikue Shimizu, M.D., Mohs fellowship program director, Jennifer Ranario, M.D., MBA, and Zeena Nawas, M.D., Dr. Fernandez honed her skills and greatly impacted her career development by modeling expertise, compassionate care and exemplary teaching. Choosing to pursue her fellowship at Baylor, Dr. Fernandez was drawn to the comprehensive training offered in Mohs surgery. Baylor’s program stood out for its unique setting at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, allowing her to serve and learn from veterans daily and adding a meaningful dimension to her training. As her fellowship draws to a close, Dr. Fernandez reflects on her journey and looks ahead to her next chapter in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Excited to practice both medical and surgical dermatology, she carries with her the invaluable lessons learned at Baylor.