Rafael Homer

Rafael is a third-year medical student at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He graduated from the University of Wyoming with dual Bachelor’s degrees in molecular biology and finance. During undergrad, he conducted basic science research examining C. elegans molting, which has striking similarities to human epidermal processes. He simultaneously conducted research assessing healthcare barriers in his home state of Wyoming. As a medical student, he has continued to work to improve rural healthcare by serving on the board of the Wyoming Medical Society, focusing on prior authorization reform and other advocacy areas surrounding care expansion and access. He has also worked with Wyoming Medicaid to assess telehealth usability within the state.

His interest in dermatology blossomed through research on rare genetic disorders using organotypic epidermal models, leading him to further explore dermatology by completing a translational research fellowship focused on cutaneous lupus pathogenesis and treatment. Actively working to bridge the gap between rural care and dermatology, he works with the Sun Bus mobile skin cancer screening clinic to host rural screening events and develop community STEM education. He has also supported rural primary care dermoscopy education through in-person demonstrations and screenings and currently serves as a student liaison with the Rural Access to Dermatology Society.

Outside of medicine, he enjoys tabletop gaming, hiking, and exploring regional food and culture. He is excited to leverage his background in rural health and dermatology during his tenure on the VisualDx student board and throughout his future career.