The dermatologist identity crisis: a phenomenological analysis of dermatology trainee professional identity during generalist redeployment.

This article examines the impact of COVID-19 redeployment on the professional identity of dermatology trainees within the UK National Health Service (NHS), particularly amid broader shifts in medical education towards generalism. Through phenomenological analysis of semistructured interviews with ten dermatology trainees, the study identifies key themes including trainee identity and values, redeployment transitions, and future career clarity, alongside integrative themes of uncertainty, community ("tribes"), and sense of purpose. Findings reveal that trainees associate their professional identity with competence, community support, and lifelong learning, but redeployment to generalist roles during the pandemic led to experiences ranging from reaffirmation of dermatology values to disorienting reflections on career trajectories. The study suggests that fostering supportive communities, minimizing uncertainty, and promoting a clear sense of purpose may help maintain and enrich dermatology trainee identity, which is crucial for sustaining the future dermatology workforce amid evolving healthcare demands.