Dr Fiona Browne

How long have you been a dermatologist and do you care for adults and children?

I started my dermatology training in 2006 and have been a consultant since 2011. I initially worked with both adults in children but since moving to Dublin in 2015 I just look after children.

What inspired you to follow this career path?

I started my medical training wanting to do palliative care but during a rotation in dermatology I soon changed my mind. I quickly realised how rewarding it is to treat skin disease and what a huge difference you can make to people’s lives. I was also very lucky to have worked with great teachers and really inspiring mentors along the way.

What are the biggest challenges you face in your role?

Thankfully in dermatology we can treat most conditions successfully and year on year there are further advances made. Unfortunately though, there are still some conditions that we have no cure or treatment for and I find this very challenging.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Why did you become involved with the ISG?

I became involved with the ISG after meeting Mandy and Maggie at the Birmingham Paediatric Dermatology course. They came along to give a first-hand account to us, as trainees, of how living with ichthyosis was for them. Since then the ISG has been a great support to patients and families, not just in the UK but in Ireland also.

How do you raise awareness and signpost people towards the ISG?

I am lucky to work with a large multidisciplinary team and we do our best to make sure we work holistically from the first encounter with a family so we signpost to the ISG and the support they offer.

Why is being a dermatologist and researcher important to you?

Being a dermatologist brings me great satisfaction. It is never dull and we are constantly making progress in terms of treatments and understanding skin conditions. Doing research and participating in clinical trials is fundamental to that progress.

Outside of your role what are your interests and hobbies?

Family and friends are the most important things to me. We live in a very beautiful part of the world so being outdoors with them, walking on the beach or in the mountains is all I need to switch off.