Expert Directory

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C

Certified Physician Assistant
Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Center
Rome, GA

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant at the Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Center in Rome and Cartersville, GA. He earned his master of health science degree from The Graduate School at Duke University, and he graduated with honors from the Duke University School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program. He earned his doctorate of medical sciences degree in 2019 from the University of Lynchburg, and he was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society.


Dr DiRuggiero has specialized in dermatology for 25 years, with a focus on medical and surgical dermatology, clinical research, publishing, and mentoring. He has delivered more than 800 invited medical lectures and has authored multiple textbook chapters and more than 60 peer-reviewed publications.


He is a nationally recognized medical educator and has received numerous 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 America's Top PA Award.


Dr DiRuggiero is the founding president of the Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants society, and he was the only physician assistant to be appointed to the Dermatology Hall of Fame Executive Board.