Advocacy

President's Column | May 2026

April has officially slipped away, and what a month it was. Our long‑awaited ITCH Conference in Puerto Rico was everything we hoped for and more. After nearly a decade of waiting to return, it felt meaningful to finally gather on the island. The lectures were eye‑opening—deep dives into a symptom we manage every single day, yet continue to learn more about as research evolves. The conversations in the hallways, the shared clinical pearls, the sense of community… it all reminded me why this work matters and why our members are such an incredible force in dermatology.

SDPA Statement on FDA Withdrawing Proposed Ban of Minors Using Sunlamps

The Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) expresses its disappointment in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision to withdraw its proposal to ban minors from using sunlamps.  

SDPA Statement on Topical Steroids

The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) recognizes emerging evidence on potential adverse effects associated with prolonged topical corticosteroid use in managing chronic inflammatory dermatoses. These findings highlight the need for vigilant treatment planning to mitigate long-term risks. To prioritize patient safety and optimize outcomes, the SDPA advocates for routine assessment of cumulative steroid exposure as a cornerstone of patient care.

From the Hill: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Dermatology PAs

Washington recently passed the wide-ranging One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping legislative package that touches everything from energy to tax reform.

Apremilast and IRA

The IRA’s drug price negotiations aim to lower costs but risk limiting patient access, treatment options, and future innovation. The SDPA urges policymakers to balance affordability with maintaining a broad range of therapies essential for individualized patient care.

Pharmacy Benefit Reform - New York S.1267-A

Pharmacy Benefit Reform Fails in 118th Congress New York S.1267-A Sets Precedent for States Moving Forward

SDPA Strengthens Advocacy and Public Relations Program with Key Leadership Appointments

SDPA Urges Action to Support Step-Therapy Reform Bill S.1267-A

Tell Congress to Recognize the High Quality of Care Delivered by PAs!

SDPA and other Healthcare Groups Applaud Filing of the Safe Step Act in the U.S House and Senate ​

SDPA Signs Letter Asking Congress to Include Medical Treatments in Mental Health Legislation

News Categories