ASDSA Names 2014 Patient Safety Hero Award Winners

Honoring physicians and dermatologic societies whose notable efforts for greater patient safety in cosmetic procedures have made a difference last year, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) recently named the 2014 winners of its annual Patient Safety Hero Awards. The Minnesota Dermatological Society was honored for its work to block legislation that would have significantly weakened protections for patients undergoing laser procedures and also for helping to pass a ban on indoor tanning by those younger than 18.

Recipients of the Physician Patient Safety Hero awards were Practical Dermatology® contributor Bruce A. Brod, MD and Ashley A. Smith, MD, for their work in highlight consumers’ preferences on truth in medical advertising. In 2013, as part of the ASDS Future Leaders Network, Dr. Brod and Dr. Smith conducted a consumer survey of those considering cosmetic medical procedures, specifically on board certification and dermatology. The survey revealed a clear preference on the part of consumers to know the level of licensure and other information about potential providers, according to the ASDSA. Dr. Brod and Dr. Smith's work was subsequently turned into a podcast and infographic, which were the centerpiece for advocating on the issue at a New York state legislative day as well as in efforts in several other states. Both the podcast and infographic are available for download at asdsa.asds.net.