The Global Access to Skin Health Observatory
Building the first comprehensive global picture of access to dermatologic care.The Skin Observatory maps dermatologist distribution, workforce gaps and barriers to care across WHO Member States, generating evidence to identify where needs are greatest and support stronger, more equitable skin health services.
WHO Member States targeted
countries represented
%
of the world's population represented
global benchmark of the dermatology workforce
From Data to Impact
Global picture of dermatology access
The study provides the first comprehensive overview of the distribution of dermatologists and access to dermatologic care across all 194 WHO Member States.
Evidence on barriers to care
It identifies key challenges affecting access to skin health services, including workforce shortages, training gaps, infrastructure limitations and patient-related barriers.
Data to support decision-making
Through global and country-level insights, the study provides evidence that can help governments and other stakeholders better understand where action is needed most.
Foundation for skin health equity
By highlighting underserved communities and access gaps, the study supports efforts to bring dermatologic care closer to patients, wherever they live.
Explore the Data
Skin Observatory Data Explorer
See Where the Gaps Are
Through interactive maps and visualisations, the Skin Observatory Data Explorer brings together global, regional and country-level data on access to dermatologic care, showing where services are available, where gaps remain and how access varies across regions and income levels.
About the Study
Watch Dr Esther Freeman, Principal Investigator, introduce the Skin Observatory study and explain how it is helping to build a better understanding of skin health around the world.
Meet the Team
The Skin Observatory is powered by a global, multidisciplinary team united by a shared goal: to build a clearer picture of access to dermatologic care worldwide. Led by Principal Investigator Dr Esther Freeman and Dr J. Michael Yardman-Frank, the study is guided by a six-member Steering Committee and supported by an Epidemiological Methods Director and dedicated Study Support team. Thirteen Regional Directors, representing all six WHO regions, provide vital links to regional stakeholders and perspectives, helping ensure the study is both globally rigorous and locally informed.
Esther Freeman
United States of America
ILDS / Massachusetts General Hospital
Principal Investigator
J. Michael Yardman-Frank
United States of America
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Co-Investigator
Our Partners
The International League of Dermatological Societies is a unique umbrella organisation for professional dermatology organisations of all sizes. We represent dermatology at the highest level through our ‘official relations’ status with the World Health Organization. Our mission is “To increase awareness, cooperation and communication within the global dermatology community to promote high quality education, clinical care, research and innovation that will improve skin health globally.”
At L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty, our mission is to offer life-changing and sustainable dermatological solutions to all. The Dermatological Beauty Division is the world leader in dermocosmetics, with international skincare brands recommended by health care professionals and distributed in healthcare outlets worldwide, including pharmacies, drugstores, medi-spas and e-retailers.