Her Story
About Margaret
Margaret Bobonich is a nurse practitioner in dermatology with 25 years of experience. She practices in Silver Lake, Ohio, and focuses on advancing competencies and certification standards for dermatology nurse practitioners and physician assistants to ensure quality patient care and improved access. Bobonich earned both her master's and doctorate degrees from Case Western Reserve University at the Bolton School of Nursing. She created post-master's residency curricula and published competencies for dermatology NP and PA practice. Her certifications include DCMP and CAQ-DERM. Bobonich attributes her success to her father's emphasis on education and the leadership development she received at Case Western. She has established a dermatology clinic at the Northeast Ohio Lake County Free Clinics and created a medical mission group to Guatemala through Case Western. Bobonich advises young professionals to meet competencies, identify knowledge gaps, and pursue specialized education and certification.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Margaret
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from two main sources. First, my father instilled in me the passion and the pursuit of education. Second, at Case Western they curated me to be a unique leader, not just another graduate who could publish or practice anywhere. They made me feel I needed to lead and advocate.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice came from my leaders at Case Western and Bolton School of Nursing. They taught me that leading as an NP or PA is about stepping forward and advocating for what we believe is right. I have stayed true to that by not fitting into a template and continuing to advocate for patients and the profession.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Meet your competencies first and foremost. Find what drives your passion and go for it. Define the competencies for your specialty, then identify educational programs, conferences, and continuing education to build your foundation. Focus on what you don't know and your knowledge gaps to become a better clinician and qualify as a specialist.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Dermatology NPs and PAs now exceed the number of dermatologists, which is great for access but the challenge is ensuring they are hired with proper competency. Universal adaptation of certification and objective measures like the Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner Blueprint or CAQ Dermatology Blueprint for PAs is key. Don't just rely on a doctor saying you're okay; curate your own educational knowledge.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Advocating education, professional responsibility, and accountability is key. We must ensure we are accountable for who we are and what we do. Supporting women in the profession is vital because we have a unique opportunity to address patients and support each other. Sharing knowledge through mentorship makes us all better.
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