The mission of ASDSA is to speak in a unified voice to promote, protect and advance surgical and cosmetic dermatology through education and advocacy. ASDSA advances the practice of dermatologic surgery by advocating for its members and patients. As a resident dermatologic surgeon, YOU are uniquely qualified to advocate for patient safety and the field of dermatologic surgery.
If we are not advocating for ourselves, then legislators, regulators, and other policymakers are only hearing from others and may not fully understand the risks and benefits associated with the policies presented to them. This is your opportunity to get involved in advocacy early and help shape policies that protect patient access to care, support Medicare reform and strengthen the specialty you are just beginning to practice. ASDSA provides members with resources, tools and information and offers a variety of ways to get involved in important advocacy efforts.
Learn where ASDSA stands on key issues through our Position Statements. ASDSA has statements on more than 25 topics, including on Delegation and Protecting the Public From Practitioner Misrepresentation (TIA). These statements help underpin the need for patient safety, and highlight board certified dermatologists, on-site supervision by physicians and our work to keep the physician as the head of the health care team.
Three ASDSA-created pieces of model legislation help bring our policy visions to the states. Whether adopted in whole or part, or even utilized in the regulatory arena, they are tangible ways members can impact state policy:
defines “medical spa” and “medical director” and requires on-site supervision of non-physician providers performing cosmetic medical procedures.
addresses non-physicians performing laser procedures without proper training and/or physician oversight.
allows students to possess and utilize sunscreen in school and day camps without a prescription or physician’s note.