About Us
About Dermatology Associates of Ithaca
Dermatology Associates of Ithaca is a state-of-the-art dermatology practice dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, confident skin in a welcoming and healing environment. Our approach is grounded in clinical excellence, compassion, and a deep commitment to our community.
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Our History
A Legacy of Care in Our Community
Dermatology Associates of Ithaca was founded with a clear purpose: to provide exceptional dermatologic care rooted in compassion, clinical excellence, and community service. From our earliest days to the present, our practice has continued to grow while remaining focused on personalized, patient-centered care.
Our Journey Through the Years
In 2009, Dr. McAllister joined Dr. Robert Horn who had been practicing in Ithaca for over 30 years. From a team of 2 Dermatologists, 1 Nurse, 1 Administrative Assistant, and 1 Office Manager in one location, we have grown to two locations, with 1 Dermatologist, 4 Physician Assistants, 2 Nurse Practitioners, 2 Nurses, 1 Aesthetician, 12 Medical Assistants, 11 Administrative Assistants, and 1 Practice Manager in Ithaca and Cortland. We have brought many updates to the practice of Dermatology in Ithaca, from voicemail to electronic medical records, cosmetic treatments like Botox and Restylane, laser treatment, secure text messaging, and online scheduling for patients. We have diagnosed hundreds of melanomas and diagnosed, treated, and cured tens of thousands of skin cancers and precancerous lesions.
Continuing Our Commitment
Dermatology Associates of Ithaca remains dedicated to combining experience, innovation, and compassion, caring for patients today while shaping the future of dermatologic care in our community.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, our focus remains unchanged: to provide thoughtful, evidence-based dermatologic care in a supportive environment where patients feel seen, heard, and respected.
Our Mission
To provide the highest quality dermatologic care to patients in Ithaca and the surrounding region, care that reflects the best practices and standards found in leading academic medical centers across the United States.
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Our Commitment to the Community
Dermatology Associates of Ithaca is deeply committed to ensuring access to high-quality dermatologic care for our local community.
Community Impact Highlights:
- More than 750 melanomas diagnosed since 2009
- Tens of thousands of skin cancers and precancerous lesions treated and cured
- A trusted partner in patient care within the local medical community
- Active leadership, including Dr. McAllister’s service as Past President of the Tompkins County Medical Society
- Dr. McAllister is a recipient of the American Academy of Dermatology Presidential Citation Award.

Our providers and staff are actively engaged in the community through service and advocacy, including:
- Serving on boards including the Tompkins County Health Consortium
- Advocating for local and national causes, including the New York Society of Physician Assistants
- Volunteering with local sports teams such as the Greek Peak Ski Club, as well as organizations such as the SPCA and the Community Faith Partners
- Participating as active members of their faith communities
We also provide free skin cancer screenings at community events, including:
- Cancer Resource Center of the Finger Lakes
- Skin Cancer Take a Hike
- Ithaca Fest
- Michael’s Miles for Melanoma
Community Contributions & Partnerships
We are proud to support organizations that strengthen and uplift our community:
Racker
A nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with special needs, from infancy through adulthood. We are honored to be a Business Partner of Racker, whose mission reflects compassion, inclusion, and service.
The Community Foundation of Tompkins County
Dedicated to improving quality of life through enduring philanthropy. Dermatology Associates of Ithaca is a proud HEROES Circle supporter, helping fund grants that address critical community needs and foster positive change.
Hospicare
A vital community resource providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support to individuals and families facing end-of-life care. We are honored to serve as a Corporate Sponsor of Hospicare’s annual Women Swimmin’ benefit.
About Josephine C. McAllister, MD FAAD
Dr. Josephine C. McAllister is the founder of Dermatology Associates of Ithaca and is dedicated to providing exceptional dermatologic care to patients of all ages. She earned her undergraduate degree from Harvard University and her medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. McAllister completed her dermatology residency through the Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program, with clinical training at leading institutions including Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Children’s Hospital Boston, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Lahey Clinic, and the Boston VA HealthCare System.
Dr. McAllister specializes in skin cancer prevention and treatment as well as comprehensive general dermatology, including acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, inflammatory skin conditions, and warts. Her approach to care emphasizes prevention, education, and evidence-based treatment delivered with compassion and respect.
Our Founder

Josephine C. McAllister,
MD, FAAD

Why Choose Dermatology Associates of Ithaca?
Caring Approach
We treat every patient with compassion and respect
Patient-Centered Care
Your concerns, goals, and comfort come first
Knowledge & Experience
Decades of combined dermatology expertise
Trusted Local Providers
Serving Ithaca & Cortland communities
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