Honoring the Legacy of a Skin Specialist Pioneer in Dermatology
Renowned dermatologist Lowell Goldsmith, who passed away at the age of 86 in North Carolina, left an indelible mark on the medical community, particularly in Rochester, New York, where he spent a significant portion of his career. Goldsmith's contributions were diverse, ranging from his pioneering work in teledermatology to his championing of diagnostic decision support tools like VisualDx.
Goldsmith was among the early clinicians to explore teledermatology as a means to improve access to dermatologic care, especially for underserved or rural populations. His efforts helped establish teledermatology services in Rochester, bridging the gap for remote consultations and specialist input.
As a proponent of enhancing diagnostic accuracy in dermatology, Goldsmith contributed to the conceptual and practical development of VisualDx. This digital diagnostic support system uses clinical images and symptom-based algorithms to assist clinicians in identifying skin conditions.
Goldsmith's background and expertise in both dermatology and medical informatics enabled him to bridge clinical challenges with emerging technology solutions. This synergy was instrumental in shaping how tools like VisualDx could be integrated into teledermatology workflows in Rochester.
By promoting teledermatology and decision support systems, Goldsmith influenced training programs and research initiatives. His work fostered greater acceptance of telemedicine tools among dermatologists and primary care providers, paving the way for wider adoption.
Beyond his professional achievements, Goldsmith was remembered for his engaging and warm personality, making him a beloved figure in the dermatology community. He was known for remembering the details of not only faculty, students, and residents but also lab techs, secretaries, and janitors.
Goldsmith served as the founding chair of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Rochester Medical Center and held the position of clinical professor of Dermatology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill. His CV is a testament to his extensive career, with numerous books, articles, and awards to his name, including over 300 peer-reviewed publications, books, chapters, and abstracts.
In recognition of his contributions, the Carol A. & Lowell A. Goldsmith Professorship in Dermatology was established at the University of Rochester Medical Center in 2019. Goldsmith's love of learning led him to earn a master's of public health at Rochester after completing his deanship in 2000.
Goldsmith's legacy continues to inspire the medical community. He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his sense of humor, his ability to find humor in almost everything, and his unwavering care for others.
Science and health-and-wellness intertwined in Goldsmith's career, as he made significant strides in medical conditions, particularly skin-care and skin-conditions. His work on a digital diagnostic support system, VisualDx, shows his involvement in education-and-self-development, aiming to aid clinicians in accurately identifying and diagnosing various skin conditions. His extensive career in dermatology also includes a master's of public health, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing learning and improving healthcare access for all.
