Volunteerism
From the President
Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022.
By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, May 1, 2021
'Volunteer,’ (n)...person who performs/gives his/her services of own free will; (v)...to give/offer to give on one’s own initiative. To volunteer, to be a volunteer, is indeed a noble and commendable act, one that many of us do in our community, perhaps at church, work, school, shelter, etc. In the derm world, volunteer work occurs in many ways, on a small scale, perhaps a big scale, perhaps quietly without fanfare. If you’re involved in some way...outstanding, keep going, perhaps expand your activity. If uninvolved, tsk, tsk, so here are a few suggestions, all predicated on some degree of work.
Skin cancer screenings probably represent the most significant volunteer activity among members, even during the pandemic although on a lesser scale. Screenings began 35 years ago and typically occur May-September, but often in May (Melanoma Monday). To date, derms have provided almost 3 million screenings and detected almost 300,000 suspicious lesions, with approximately 10% suspicious for melanoma. Screenings are relatively easy and straightforward and the AAD provides all the necessary materials. Approximately 2,000 members participate in such screenings each year, a remarkable number which could be even higher. My compliments to all who participate regularly. For those who don’t, I encourage you to begin, even if occasionally, either via the AAD program in your community or perhaps in your clinic, hospital, local school, etc. It’s an ideal way to show our commitment to patients, our communities, and the specialty. Skin cancer is a pressing concern for many derm patients, and rightfully so. Early detection of skin cancer is paramount to good skin surveillance, especially when provided by a board-certified dermatologist.
Academy volunteerism opportunities
Check out AAD volunteerism opportunities.
For those inclined "to work up a sweat," Skin Cancer Take a Hike™ can fill that niche well, simply by joining a hike to support skin cancer screenings, or via construction of shade structures, or provision and distribution of sunscreen dispensers in communities throughout the U.S. Actual hikes are "on hold" because of pandemic, but should resume by end of the year or early 2022.
Good Skin Knowledge, an AAD teaching program directed at youngsters, attempts to capture the attention of two age groups: 8-10 and 11-13, by providing instruction materials about skin, hair, and nails. Participating members actually meet with the youngsters and discuss some basic derm topics, (e.g., acne and general "skin health," including sunscreens, and sub-topics as well). AAD provides handouts for members to share and the settings can vary (e.g., Boys/Girls clubs, Scouts, PTA meetings, school teams, youth centers, etc.). The program attempts to educate and instill good habits at an early age, which may help to dispel myths, enhance self-esteem, and diminish anxiety. All in all, a plus...
For those inclined "to roll up their sleeves" and perhaps "get down and dirty" in an exotic locale, Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO) would definitely fit the bill. HVO has been in operation for almost 35 years, with a mission to educate and train local physicians and medical staff in areas where resources are scare. HVO works in concert with many U.S. medical groups, including the AAD, which has been an active sponsor for many years. Not surprising, dermatologists have played an integral part in many of the missions. Active project sites for 2021 include Cambodia, Costa Rica, Nepal, Uganda, and Vietnam, with set rotations of 2-3 weeks. HVO sets the table for volunteers. Anyone with an interest should contact the Academy or HVO directly: www.hvousa.org.
Become a mentor
Learn more about the Academy’s mentorship programs.
For derm residents with an inkling to volunteer, two outlets are available. The American Health Service Resident program which offers four grants/year to second/third-year derm residents to provide derm care to the Navajo Nation population in Chinle, Arizona, in concert with primary care staff. Given the pandemic, the program is "on hold" for 2021, but should resume next year.
The other opportunity is the resident international grant for 12 U.S. and Canadian derm residents to provide derm care and support in one of four locations for 4-6 weeks — Botswana; South Africa; Nepal; Peru. Unfortunately, the program is "on hold," but interested residents should stay tuned.
The above represent the more "hands on" activities offered by the AAD for those members with an interest in volunteering. For those inclined to extend themselves, to get involved, to do something, anything derm related, but just a bit different, and in turn "make a difference," I encourage you to contact the AAD and "sign on." You won’t regret doing so.
