President’s Message | December 2021

Dec 22, 2021

Dear Colleagues,

As I reflect on the past year, nothing makes me prouder than being a Dermatology Physician Assistant amongst the brightest, most passionate people who care for people throughout the country. I have had the honor and privilege of meeting many people over the course of the year and most importantly loved listening to what makes them shine bright.

Though the end of the year is a busy time for decorating and holiday planning; I want you to all make sure you make time to relax and enjoy time with your family and friends. You deserve it! I am so proud of the SDPA highlighting all your accomplishments this year. As Dermatology PAs, you are making a difference! Keep going!!!

Before you sign off for the year, I want to share a few updates from SDPA that may help you plan for 2022.

Registration for the 2022 SDPA Annual Summer Dermatology Conference, June 16-19, in Austin, Texas, opens in early January. Make sure you plan for the most unforgettable SDPA White Party while listening to the best of Austin’s local music stars and eating the best Texas food Austin has to offer.  However, we cannot forget the exceptional CME lectures with the most renowned speakers from across the country. Finally, all the connections speak for themselves! Nothing makes a conference more engaging than connecting with your peers. Please note, we are mindful of COVID-19 associated variants, and are prepared to make adjustments.

CME Committee volunteers are working alongside SDPA staff to create a world-class program headlined by keynote speaker Jean Bolognia, MD, senior editor of Dermatology Essentials. Dr. Bolognia will kick off the conference at 7:30AM Thursday, June 16 with a highly anticipated presentation you will not want to miss. I recently returned from an Austin conference site visit, and I was truly impressed. The atmosphere, the food, the people – the bats. Did you know Austin is celebrated for its urban bat population that congregates nightly in the “bat cave” under the Congress Avenue Bridge? As an animal lover, I can’t wait to see them. You are going to love it.

You will see additional updates on special events, faculty, and exhibitors in coming weeks, so please watch for email notices and social media posts. The best investment you can make in 2022 is to join us in Austin, June 16-19, and in Miami, Nov. 17-20.

On behalf of the membership, I also want to publicly thank the Legislative Committee for its swift work identifying real-world problems associated with FDA modifications to the IPLEDGE REMS. Because of the committee’s insight, SDPA staff quickly implemented a successful congressional letter writing campaign to address patient-access problems caused by the FDA modifications. You can find additional information on our Legislative Action page.

From everyone at SDPA, have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year. We are grateful for your support.

With you and for you,

Renata Block, MMS, PA-C SDPA President