Optima Dermatology Welcomes Maria Petkova, NP-C
January 2026
Maria Offers Her Expertise as a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner to Patients of All Ages
Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner Maria Petkova, NP-C, has joined Optima’s Salem and Bedford, NH practices, bringing industry-leading medical and dermatological experience to patients of all ages. She treats a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and more.
Before entering the dermatology field, Maria worked as a registered nurse in oncology and pediatric intensive care. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing, graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors with an emphasis on Family Medicine. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Simmons University in Boston.
Maria’s background and clinical interests focus on women’s and pediatric health, along with a strong foundation in oncology research. She has participated in multiple research studies at the Harvard School of Public Health and helped develop numerous cutaneous and non-cutaneous oncology clinical trials at the Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research.
She maintains an active membership with the Society of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners, the Dermatology Nurses Association, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
With her new role at Optima Dermatology, Maria looks forward to providing industry-leading dermatology care to patients of all ages in the southern New Hampshire area.
High Quality Care With a Personalized Approach
Because of her diverse experience in nutrition, academic and clinical research, oncology, ICU, and pediatrics, Maria is able to deliver care in a highly personalized and compassionate way, which aligns with Optima’s mission to treat every patient as we would our family and friends.
We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Maria, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.
What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like for you?
After spending several years working in inpatient oncology and ICU, I wanted to shift into a specialty where I could build more long-term relationships with my patients and be part of their ongoing care. My path into dermatology was shaped by the incredible mentorship I received early on. I had the opportunity to train with an exceptional dermatologist whose knowledge, passion, and genuine enthusiasm for the field were contagious. He was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance and support. That experience solidified my love for dermatology and the meaningful connections it allows me to make with patients.
What is your favorite aspect of being a board-certified nurse practitioner?
My favorite part of being a Nurse Practitioner is the ability to draw on my diverse clinical background to support my patients. My experience in nutrition, academic and clinical research, oncology, ICU, and pediatrics gives me a broad perspective that I use every day to create individualized care plans. I believe the compassion you gain as a nurse while being present with patients and families during some of their most difficult moments is something unique that NPs carry forward into advanced practice. It allows me to approach each patient with empathy and a commitment to improving their quality of life.
What is your approach to treating your patients?
My approach to patient care is to treat every individual the way I would want my own family to be treated. Having been a patient myself and having supported close family and friends through their own medical experiences, I understand how frightening, uncomfortable, and at times overwhelming healthcare can feel. Because of that, I prioritize building a trusting and respectful relationship with each patient. I want patients to feel heard, supported, and confident that we’re working together toward their best possible health.
What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?
My number one tip for taking care of our skin is simple: wear sunscreen every day and get annual skin checks. Unlike many internal cancers that require invasive testing or may only be detected once symptoms appear, most skin cancers can be identified early through routine exams, and many can be prevented with consistent sun protection.
What is one thing you want your patients to know about you?
One thing I want my patients to know is that I genuinely care about their health and quality of life. I believe that good health is one of the most important foundations in life, and I’m committed to supporting my patients in every way I can.
What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?
When I’m not in the office, I’m spending time with my husband and our two young boys. They keep us busy, and I love being able to focus on family time whenever I’m away from work.
What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Maria and Her Team
Patients visiting with Maria and her team at Optima Dermatology will receive the highest quality of care backed by advanced training and experience.
Maria is currently accepting new patients at our Salem and Bedford, NH locations. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 855-277–9689.