It's hard to believe a year has passed since the pandemic began, but I'm encouraged by the vaccine rollout and the hopeful return to normalcy. I recently attended AAPA's virtual Leadership and Advocacy Summit, where we discussed crucial legislative efforts to ensure patient access to care, and I urge you to support these initiatives by joining AAPA and voting in the upcoming SDPA elections.
This February, as we celebrate Black History Month, I'm reflecting on healthcare disparities, especially for minorities, and how PAs are uniquely positioned to help. I'm personally committing to improving my cultural competency and challenge all Dermatology PAs to find ways, big or small, to contribute to lessening healthcare inequality.
Welcome to 2021! As you continue to serve on the frontlines, facing new challenges like E/M coding changes, I want to assure you that the SDPA is here to support your professional development with a two-part coding course and new distance education offerings.
I'm incredibly grateful for our adaptable leaders who've innovated events like "Cocktails & Conversation," our dedicated five-person staff who bring our ideas to life, and especially for you, our members, whose partnership helps us advocate for DermPAs™ nationwide.
I've been reflecting on how I've adapted to 2020's "new normal"—whether I've been a flexible "Twizzler" or an inflexible "pretzel stick." I'm proud to work with a team of "Twizzlers" who've made SDPA DIGITAL an incredibly engaging and educational virtual conference, and I can't wait to "see" you all there.
As September ends, I want to wish all PAs a happy PA Week, commending your unwavering commitment to patient care during the pandemic. I encourage you to never believe you are "just a PA," as our profession consistently shatters expectations, and I look forward to connecting with you all at SDPA DIGITAL 2020 in October.
As summer winds down, I'm reflecting on how different this fall will be, with a reimagined academic year for many. Similarly, the SDPA has reimagined its fall season by hosting our first-ever virtual conference, "SDPA DIGITAL 2020," offering exceptional education and networking opportunities.
Every July, the SDPA leadership team welcomes new volunteers passionate about advancing dermatology PAs. To get involved, identify your interests, connect with the relevant committee chairs, and take a step toward leadership—together, we grow as professionals and leaders in our communities and beyond.
Although "mayday" is widely recognized as a distress signal, May Day—celebrated on May 1st—represents hope, renewal, and transformation. As states gradually reopen amid the pandemic, healthcare professionals are resuming patient care, embracing new beginnings despite the persistent challenges.
In just four weeks, the pandemic has drastically changed our lives, but I’ve found valuable gifts in family time, professional growth, and community support. Despite challenges, this crisis has inspired me to grow personally and professionally while appreciating the power of connection and progress.
