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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.
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.

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

What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews

Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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