Robert G. Shoss, MD

Dr. Shoss is a board-certified dermatologist. He graduated from and completed his internal medicine internship and residency at the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He initiated his practice in 1976 in the Capital District following completion of his dermatology training at Albany Medical Center. During these 38 years, Dr. Shoss has provided comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care, skin cancer screening and treatment, as well as aesthetic medicine, including laser and intense pulsed light treatments and facial rejuvenation with Botox and dermal fillers. Recognizing the critical importance of skin care, he oversees esthetician services geared to improve the health and appearance of the skin.

Dr. Shoss has been actively involved in teaching at Albany Medical Center having served in the capacities of instructor, clinical assistant, and currently, clinical associate professor of medicine. He remains involved in the teaching of medical students and residents and also supervises the teaching of physician assistant trainees. His passion for education led to his recognition by The Academy of Family Practice Physicians for his involvement in teaching family practice residents. Dr. Shoss is a Fellow of The American Academy of Dermatology, a member of The American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery, The New York State Society of Dermatology, The Capital District Dermatological Society, The New England Dermatology Society, and The Medical Society of the State of New York. A popular lecturer on subjects related to skin disease, he is a regular guest on local news programs discussing topics related to his specialty.

A former Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves Medical Corps and Eagle Scout, Dr. Shoss is a previous board member of the Bender/St.Peter’s Hospital Hygienic Laboratory and the Bethlehem PTA Endowment Committee. He participates yearly in community activities such as the Albany Jewish Community Center and Albany Medical Center Hospital annual skin screening clinics.

David Foster, RPA-C

David joined Albany Dermatology in March 2015. He is a 1995 graduate of the Albany Medical College Physician Assistant Program, and worked in a family medicine group for nearly 20 years prior to joining our practice.

As a Physician Assistant who has received specialized training in dermatology, David is licensed and qualified to provide a wide range of medical and surgical services to our dermatologic patients. Proficient in performing biopsies, excisions and cryotherapy, and he is able to order and interpret laboratory blood tests and prescribe medication. He utilizes a range of therapies to treat patients with acne including oral antibiotics, topical treatments and Accutane derivatives. He is also able to prescribe topical and/or biologic treatment for patients with severe plaque psoriasis. David attends conferences regularly to update his medical knowledge and has held continuous board certification by the National Physician Assistant organization.

David is an active member of the local Physician Assistant community. He participates in the education of Physician Assistant and medical students and has volunteered his time to support internships for high school students interested in a Physician Assistant career. Previously a respiratory therapist, he continues to use this background to certify local firefighters.

A US Army veteran and former airborne paratrooper, David is also an active member of his community and school district, and volunteers in the many activities that his children are involved in.

David is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the State of New York.

LAUREN LEACH, PA-C

Lauren joined Albany Dermatology in November 2020. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from The State University of New York College at Oneonta and her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. She is a member of the Pi Alpha National Honor Society.

Prior to joining Albany Dermatology, Lauren spent five years working in family medicine. She enjoys developing close relationships with her patients and is passionate about enhancing their quality of life through skin care. Lauren has additional experience in personal training and is skilled in educating and motivating her patients to achieve their health goals.

As a Physician Assistant who has received specialized training in dermatology, Lauren is licensed and qualified to provide a wide range of medical and surgical services to our dermatologic patients.  She Is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the State of New York. Lauren is a proud member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants as well as the New England Dermatology Society.

LINH DONNELL, PA-C

Linh joined Albany Dermatology in November 2020. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT and then obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, CT. Her clinical year included rotations in dermatology and extensive surgical experience related to skin and soft tissue disease.

Linh’s interests include early detection and treatment of various skin cancers and is skilled in the management of a wide variety of chronic skin conditions. She is trained to perform procedures including cryotherapy, biopsies, and removal of benign and cancerous skin lesions. Linh has a passion for dermatology and thoroughly enjoys interacting with patients of all ages to address their concerns.

Linh is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the State of New York. She is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the New England Dermatology Society.

Michelle McLea, Licensed Esthetician

Michelle joined Albany Dermatology in January 2018. A 2005 graduate from the Aesthetic Science Institute in Latham, NY, Michelle brings 14 years of experience in the esthetic industry, having worked as an esthetician and manager at a Capital Region day spa. Michelle provides facials for patients with all skin types, including acne prone or oily; sun damaged or aging; or rosacea prone or sensitive. Michelle also performs a variety of medical grade customized chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

Michelle continually extends her knowledge of the industry by taking continuing education courses, attending trade shows and keeping abreast of the latest trends in esthetic products and procedures.

Feel FREE to call our office today to schedule a VISIA Complexion Analysis and consultation with Michelle.

THE ALBANY DERMATOLOGY NURSING TEAM

FELICIA NACY, RN

MICHELLE BRISEE, LPN

MELANIE BUSCH, LPN

TIMOTHY HARTNETT , LPN

NATALIA PASTOR-CLEMENTE, MA

These professionals bring a wealth of experience to the practice from a variety of health care settings. They support our providers by completing detailed patient health histories, assisting the medical staff during more complex medical, surgical and cosmetic procedures, and providing necessary support, advice and health education to our patients. The team also manages prescription renewals, including prior authorizations, provides patient care in rooms and completes entry of medical information into our electronic medical records system.

The AD Nursing Team maintains a high standard of patient care within the practice, promoting the concept of safe individualized patient care, and maintaining confidentiality at all times and in all places. Each keep abreast of updated clinical practice guidelines and policies to extend and improve their skills to meet the needs of our patients.