Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant at Vantage Dermatology in Calhoun, GA.

Mr DiRuggiero earned his master of health science and physician assistant science degrees from Duke University, and he earned his doctorate of medical sciences degree from the University of Lynchburg in 2019.

He specialized in dermatology 26 years ago and continues to enjoy medical and surgical dermatology, clinical research, publishing, and mentoring. He has delivered more than 900 medical lectures and has authored multiple textbook chapters and more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. Mr DiRuggiero has launched 2 scientific journals, including, most recently, the award-winning Journal of Dermatology for NPs & PAs, for which he also acts as co–editor in chief.

He is a nationally recognized medical educator and has received numerous teaching awards and honors, including the President's Volunteer Service Award Lifetime Achievement Award, the International Association of Healthcare Professionals Top Physician Assistant Award, the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants 2019 National Dermatology PA of the Year and 2022 Medical Educator PA of the Year awards, and the Point of Care Network 2022 and 2024 America’s Top PA Award. In May 2025, Mr DiRuggiero became the first advanced practice provider to be recognized as a national honoree by the National Psoriasis Foundation.

He is founding president of the Georgia Dermatology Professional Association and has acted as president and/or founder of several other dermatology and health care societies and foundations.