Advocacy Update Mar. 4, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Mar. 4, 2025
AADA urged CMS, CDC to recognize dermatologists as CLIA lab directors
AADA asked Colorado legislators to support truth in advertising
Regulatory Affairs
AADA urged CMS, CDC to recognize dermatologists as CLIA lab directors
The Academy urged CMS and CDC to recognize dermatologists as Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) laboratory directors (PDF). In its letter the Academy called for changes to CLIA regulations to recognize American Board of Dermatology (ABD) certification as qualifying for lab director roles, or alternatively, to accept board-certified dermatologists with fellowship training in dermatopathology or Mohs surgery.
The Academy also requested a meeting to discuss these concerns and to ensure qualified dermatologists can continue to serve as lab directors without unnecessary barriers.
Transition Update
AADA offers to be a resource to new HHS Secretary
On Feb. 26, the AADA corresponded with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following his confirmation as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) highlighting its expertise in dermatologic care as well as its leadership in key health policy issues. The Academy emphasized its expertise in Medicare payment reform, patient access, public health initiatives, and other regulatory challenges impacting health care delivery. The letter stressed AADA’s role as a valuable resource to HHS (PDF) and underscored the Academy’s commitment to work with Secretary Kennedy in addressing health care challenges.
State Advocacy
AADA asked Colorado legislators to support truth in advertising
The AADA and the Colorado Dermatologic Society urged the Colorado Senate Committee on Health and Human Services to support legislation on truth in advertising for patients and the public (PDF). The bill would require physicians and nonphysician clinicians to disclose in advertising and through photo identification their name and the type of state-issued license, certificate, or registration held.
AADA News
Donate to SkinPAC for Annual Meeting events
Want to gain access to two exclusive events in Orlando during the AADA Annual Meeting?
SkinPAC will host two events to thank our 2025 donors. The first is the SkinPAC Donor Reception which will take place on March 6 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the pool deck of the Hyatt Regency Orlando (9801 International Drive). This event is open to all 2025 SkinPAC members who contribute $250+ and residents who contribute $25+. Please RSVP to skinpac@aad.org.
SkinPAC will also host the SkinPAC Donor Lounge, open to all 2025 members at the Silver ($1,000) level and above ($100 for residents). The lounge will be in Room W102AB at the Orlando Convention Center and will serve as a fun place to relax and connect with colleagues during the Annual Meeting, as well as enjoy breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The lounge will be open during exhibit hall hours on March 7 and 8 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) and from 12-3 p.m. on March 9.
As of Feb. 27, SkinPAC has raised $308,603 from 288 individuals. SkinPAC helps strengthen our relationships on Capitol Hill and reinforces our grassroots and lobbying efforts.
Contribute online at www.skinpac.org or by texting SkinPAC to 71777. Email skinpac@aad.org with any questions.
The political purpose of the American Academy of Dermatology Association Political Action Committee ("SkinPAC") is to solicit and receive contributions to be used to make political campaign expenditures to those candidates for elective office, and other federal political committees, who demonstrate understanding and interest in the view and goals of the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Contributions to SkinPAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions to SkinPAC must be made from your funds and may not be reimbursed. SkinPAC cannot accept contributions from corporate accounts. Any recommended contribution amount is merely a suggestion. All AADA members have the right to contribute more or less or refuse to contribute without reprisal. Federal law prohibits us from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, physical address, occupation, and name of the employer whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.
