NEWSLETTER OF THE AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC COLLEGE OF DERMATOLOGY

Volume 35, Issue 65 Summer 2007

More In this issue...

Message from the President ....3

Keeping It All Together ............4

Executive Director’s Report ......6

Fellows of Distinction ..............7

AOCD Contributes to AOA ......7

Residents Updates............13-17

AOCD Welcomes Residents ..13

2007 Ad Journal ..................19

Financial Tidbidts ..................20

AOA Looking for Mentors ......21

Dermquest Web Resource ......22

Corporate Spotlight ..............23

Midyear MeetingHighlights

see pages 8 & 9

Annual MeetingSan Diego, California

September 30 to October 4, 2007see pages 9 - 11

Dermatologist Treks to Belizesee pages 18 & 19

2007 SCRIPPS COURSE

July 9-13, 2007San Diego, Calif.

AOCD MIDYEAR MEETINGMarch 12-15, 2008Monterey, Calif.

Annual Meeting 2007San Diego, Calif.

Sept. 30 - Oct. 4check www.AOCD.org/meetings

for the latest updates

Upcoming EventsAmerican OsteopathicCollege of DermatologyP.O. Box 75251501 E. IllinoisKirksville, MO 63501Office: (660) 665-2184

(800) 449-2623Fax: (660) 627-2623Site: www.aocd.org

PRESIDENTBill V. Way, DO, FAOCD

PRESIDENT-ELECTJay S. Gottlieb, DO, FAOCD

FIRST VICE PRESIDENTDonald K. Tillman, DO, FAOCD

SECOND VICE PRESIDENTMarc I. Epstein, DO, FAOCD

THIRD VICE PRESIDENTLeslie Kramer, DO, FAOCD

SECRETARY-TREASURERJere J. Mammino, DO, FAOCD

IMMEDIATE PAST-PRESIDENTRichard A. Miller, DO, FAOCD

TRUSTEESBradley P. Glick, DO Karen E. Neubauer, DOJeffrey N. Martin, DO James B. Towry, DO

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORRebecca Mansfield, MA

PL AT I N U M SP O N S O R S

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Page 3

Hello Fellows and Residents,

This has been a great year for the AOCD as much has been achieved.

For starters, the College had a great Annual Meeting in Las Vegas. One of my firstgoals was to appoint leaders to the multiple AOCD committees. I instructed each ofthem to review their committees and come back with ideas for improvement, whichthey have done.

In March, we had a very successful Midyear Meeting in Santa Fe. The attendancewas outstanding. The lectures were very educational and everyone seemed to havea great time. I wish to thank Dr. Mark Epstein for planning such a great meeting.

This year, Dr. Edward Yob and I have worked with the American Society of Derma-tologic Surgery (ASDS) to help create an ASDS Osteopathic Dermatologistmembership category. The Society is currently working on creating another new membership category, the OsteopathicDermatology Resident. If you are not a member of the Society and you perform dermatological surgery, then you shouldconsider joining the ASDS.

At the February American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Convention, I attended the AAD Presidential Banquet, at whichthe AOCD presence was greatly appreciated. I have worked with the AAD as well as several other organizations in order forour DO dermatology residents to begin receiving complimentary copies of the following publications: Dermatologic Surgery,Archives of Dermatology, Cosmetic Dermatology, Dermatology Times, and Skin and Allergy News. I am working on gettingdermatoscopes for all new residents. I am working on making sure that each new first-year DO dermatology residentreceives the basic dermatology books that our teaching programs are using, specifically Andrews Dermatology andBologina Dermatology.

I am working with the Educational Evaluating Committee (EEC) to ensure that all the AOCD dermatology residencyprograms provide adequate training, evaluation of the training, and proper documentation of all training. I have asked theEEC to review our standards for our dermatology residency programs and provide an equal education to all our residentsno matter what program they attend. I believe, as others believe, that having “quality DO dermatology residency programsis much more important than just providing training for many DO dermatology residents.” We must continue to choose ournew residents from the very best young DOs and provide to them the very best dermatology programs of the highest qualityand standards.

The AOCD has come a long way in the last nearly 50 years. The days of preceptor programs are over. The College will onlyapprove quality osteopathic dermatology programs and will not allow for anything like a preceptorship program to existtever again. Today, the AOCD has 290 DO Fellows and 87 DO Residents in training at 21 DO AOA/AOCD DermatologyResidency Programs. The AOBD is our certifying dermatology board and is composed of some of our very best DO Fellows.We have an outstanding staff with Becky Mansfield as our Executive Director. I am very proud of what our prior leaders andFellows have done for us. They have created the foundation for what we are today. They have a legacy that we can all bevery proud of. This year, we have an outstanding Executive Committee: Officers and Board of Trustees who have committedthemselves to continuing to improve the AOCD for each of you and our future residents. They are the caretakers of ourgreat College.

In closing, I ask each of you to give back to the AOCD through your membership, leadership, attendance at our Annualand Midyear Meetings, and by mentoring our osteopathic residents and students.

In less than five months we will, once again, gather together at our Annual Convention. Dr. Gottlieb is planning anoutstanding educational meeting and he will be installed as our next President for 2007-2008. I hope that each of you willmake plans for yourself and your family to attend this next AOA/AOCD Convention in San Diego. It will be outstanding!Great osteopathic dermatology is achieved through excellence.

Sincerely,Bill V. Way, D.O., FAOCDAOCD President, 2006-2007

Message From The President

UPDATE CONTACT INFORMATION

Is your contact information current? If not,you may be missing need-to-know newsfrom the AOCD.Visit www.aocd.org/members. Click on thered box on the right side of the screen toupdate your info. Should you have trouble accessing yourprofile, you can fax the new information tothe AOCD at 660-627-2623. Send the faxto the attention of Marsha Wise, ResidentCoordinator.

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As the AOCD celebrates its 50thanniversary, we thought memberswould like to get a behind-the-scenesglimpse at the staff who help keep theCollege running.

You may still be talking about theevening reception at the GeorgiaO’Keeffe museum during the MidyearMeeting, the keynote speaker BruceChristopher, or the more than 40vendors in the exhibit hall. But did youever wonder how that great venuecame to serve as the backdrop for themeeting, how the speaker had all thepresentation equipment he needed, orhow all those booths were set up for allthose vendors?

And it’s not just meetings that needarranging. Board certification and resi-dency programs must be verified, AOAregulations must be kept up with andfollowed, residents’ annual reportsmust be filed, and funding must becontinually sought after and found.

Enter the AOCD staff, the peoplebehind the scenes at the College thatkeep it moving forward.

Executive Director

More than 12 years at the AOCD,Executive Director Rebecca Mansfieldwas drafted into the position. Workingas an office manager for Lloyd Cleaver,D.O., FAOCD, Mansfield received acall from her boss who was attendingthe 1994 annual AOCD meeting inBoston. They had just fired the execu-tive director and wanted to know if shewould accept the position. Mansfieldhad already been working on Collegebusiness for Dr. Cleaver who was presi-dent-elect at the time.

One of her primary responsibilities isplanning the Annual and MidyearMeetings, a process that starts one yearin advance. Mansfield works closelywith the program chair to make all thearrangements, including accommoda-tions, conference rooms, travel, menus,social activities, and speakers. In addi-tion, there are the examinations,including the Resident-In-Training and

CAQ Mohs Surgery, and the continuingmedical education (CME) componentsthat go along with them.

Verifying members’ board certificationand residency programs is an ongoingresponsibility. “Some weeks we canhave three calls about that and someweeks, twenty calls,” she says. It oftendepends on when each state does itsre-licensing and when medicalmalpractice policies come due.

Then there are member e-mails andtelephone calls that need to be fielded.Some members call looking to bematched up with partners to join theirpractice, while others consideringadding a new procedure to their prac-tice call for information aboutinsurance needs. Medical students whowant to become residents call with ahost of questions.

The most unusual request Mansfieldever received from a member was toprovide a step stool to enable thespeaker to see over the top of thepodium. “It was an excellent presenta-tion,” she recalls. A resident called torequest a copy of the current In-Training Exam to study…one year inadvance of taking the test.

Mansfield also must keep current withfederal and state regulations, as wellas AOA mandates specific to CME andexams. Because the AOA has oversightover the AOCD, she explains, Mans-field needs to be involved with all of theAOA committeesavailable to thespecialty colleges,such as theCouncil of Osteo-pathic SpecialtySocieties and theFederation ofOsteopathicSpecialty Associa-tions. She attendsthe annual AOABoard of Trusteesmeeting held inChicago in July.Many of thespecialty colleges

have similar issues that need to beaddressed and she often returns withgood ideas to report to the AOCDExecutive Committee.

What does she enjoy most about herjob? Her interaction with the members.“We’re a small enough group thateveryone knows each other,” saysMansfield. “The doctors stay in touchinstead of just paying their dues andcoming to a meeting once every coupleof years.”

One of her goals is to get the programdirectors to interact with each othermore than they currently do. Theprogram directors met at last year’sannual AOCD meeting, whichproduced a great deal of interaction,she says. While the residency programshave the same basic standards tofollow, each one does things a littledifferently. “Some of the directors havereally good ideas, but have nevershared them with the others.”

Mansfield wishes continued growth forthe AOCD over the next 50 years. “Iwould like to see the College at leastdouble the size of its membership andtriple the number of residency andfellowship training programs,” shesays.

Resident Coordinator

Recent growth led to the hiring of Resi-dent Coordinator Marsha Wise lastyear.

Keeping it all Together: the AOCD Staff Her primary responsibility is trackingresidents’ training information andreports, which isn’t an easy task with87 residents. The AOA requires resi-dents to complete the Resident’sAnnual Report and the Annual PaperDocumentation Report within 30 daysof completing each training year. Addi-tionally, program directors are requiredto annually complete a ProgramDirector’s Report and Core Compe-tency Annual Form for eachosteopathic physician in the programalso due within 30 days of completionof the training year. Given that failureto meet these deadlines may result indelayed evaluation and approval of thetraining year, there is a lot at stake.Wise’s goal is to have 100 percent on-time resident report turn in, she saysonly half jokingly.

One thing that may help her meet thatgoal is going “paperless,” an optionwhich the staff has been discussing.“Our file cabinets are filled to thebrim,” says Wise, adding that a scan-ning/file storage program woulddefinitely help. “We would save somuch paper and space to store it in.”

Wise, who also works on membershipupdates, meeting brochures, and mail-ings, as well as helps out with variousoffice duties, says she enjoys the orga-nizational aspect of her responsibilities.“I’m a very detail oriented type ofperson,” she says. But Wise also has acreative side, which she gets to usewhen working on meeting brochures.For the Midyear Meeting, Wise not onlywas able to be creative, but turned itinto a family affair. While she devel-oped the inside of the brochure, herson designed the cover. “That was a lotof fun,” Wise says.

Administrative Services Manager

And speaking of family, the Administra-tive Services Manager Rick Mansfield isnone other than Becky’s husband. AsAdministrative Assistant to the Secretaryof the AOBD, he handles issues thataffect the Board. For example, he noti-fies the Board when the third-yearresidents are eligible for their examsand follows through when they passtheir boards. Mansfield even helps set

up the exams, from getting the locationto ensuring that every resident has amicroscope.

In addition, he serves as the College’saccountant, audiovisual technician,computer consultant, and officialgopher. “I do whatever Becky tells metoo,” jokes Mansfield, “pretty much justlike at home.”

In truth, Mansfield says he enjoysworking with his wife as he has donefor the past 12 years. He also enjoysworking with the members. “I don’t getto see many of them, but I get to talk tothem a lot on the phone. They’re reallygood people, as well as being reallygood doctors.”

One gets the sense that working at theAOCD headquarters is more likeworking at a family business, wheretasks are often completed as a“community effort.” Just ask the Mans-fields’ daughter, Christi Nielsen, whohas served as an integral part of theteam, especially for the Annual andMidyear Meetings. She helps with regis-tration, setting up the banquet andawards presentations, receptions,committee meetings, and exams. Sheserved as the newsletter editor for alittle while, as well.

Corp. Development Coordinator

Although Shirley Gottlieb, Coordinatorof Corporate Development, works off-site, she is very much a part of theAOCD family. When the College waslooking to expand its corporate devel-opment efforts two years ago, shejumped at the chance to pitch in. “It’sexciting to work with an organizationthat is growing and to help elevate it toa higher level,” says Gottlieb, who hasa background in corporate develop-ment.

Although the growth in membership isgood news, it presents a challenge tothe College to increase funding, sheexplains. The Annual and MidyearMeetings provide diversified CMEprograms that enable our members tobe up-to-date on a broad range ofnew developments in dermatology andto acquire a better understanding of

advances in medical surgical therapies.But putting these meetings on is acostly endeavor. Additionally, it costsresidents a great deal of money toattend meetings and courses, as wellas to pay for educational materials. “Isecure grants and sponsorships thatwill help them in these areas,” shesays, adding, “The support that wereceive from both pharmaceutical andindustry-related companies helps theAOCD achieve all of this.”

Her philosophy is simple. “I keep theCollege’s name in front of as manyorganizations as I can for as long as Ican because eventually they’re going tospeak with me,” she says. “This allowsme the opportunity to introduce andpromote our College, and its goals andobjectives.” On the flipside, the compa-nies appreciate knowing that themembership is aware of the supportthat they provide, says Gottlieb, whospends most of her time on the phonecultivating business relationships. Shereports to the Executive Committee andExecutive Director on a regular basis,as well.

With many corporate sponsors takingtheir sponsorship to a higher level andthe largest number of exhibitors at theMidyear Meeting to date, Gottlieb’sphilosophy seems to be working. But inthe world of fundraising, there is notime for resting on one’s laurels. “Justbecause a company has funded acourse one year doesn’t mean it will doit the next year,” she concludes as thephone rings.

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rial/Public Relations, Fellow of Distinc-tion, Internet, Membership, andNominating. Reports were also givenby Drs. Lloyd Cleaver (AOBD) andKristy Gilbert (Resident Liaison).Members also approved contributing$1,000 to the AOA Greatness Fund

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee presentedits proposed slate of officers to theExecutive Committee for review. Thisslate will be mailed to all eligible votingmembers in late June.

The AOCD staff welcomes yourcomments and suggestions designed toimprove our organization. I encouragethe membership to call, e-mail, or writethe national office with any questions,concerns, or suggestions for the futureof the AOCD.

Spring has arrived! It’s great to seeeverything growing and blooming afterthe long winter. The AOCD alsocontinues to grow as we welcome 32new residents into the College.

A report of activities in the nationaloffice since the spring newsletter issummarized below.

Midyear Meeting

Dr. Marc Epstein developed anoutstanding lecture program includingpsychologist and humorist BruceChristopher whose topics were “Whyare Women so Strange and Men soWeird?” as well as “Bambi vs.Godzilla: Dealing with Difficult People.”Mr. Christopher provided two thought-provoking lectures on dealing withpeople and understanding our ownpersonalities. A live patient workshopwith Mark Nestor, M.D., on Botox® andfillers was held on Friday afternoon. Inaddition to the discussion on the treat-ments, attendees asked questions onother cosmetic procedures they couldutilize for their patients. To add a littleexcitement to the conference, we had alight snow fall to entertain everyone.

The 2008 Midyear Meeting will be heldat the Hyatt Regency Monterey, March12-15, 2008 in Monterey, Calif. Dr.Leslie Kramer, 3rd Vice President, willbe the program chair

Annual Meeting

Dr. Jay Gottlieb has been working dili-gently on the 2007 Annual Meetinglecture program for San Diego.

All function sheets for the conventionactivities have been submitted to the

AOA. Committee meetings, SundayWelcome Reception, and Monday Pres-ident’s Reception and Banquet will beheld in the San Diego Marriott Hotel.All lectures will be held in the SanDiego Convention Center, which is nextdoor to the Marriott. The location forthe annual Board Examination and theResidents’ In-Training Examination hasnot yet been confirmed.

Education Evaluating Committee

The Education Evaluating Committeeheld a conference call May 11 todiscuss the 2007 In-Training Examina-tion and the appointment of a newchairman for the ExaminationCommittee. Additionally, the committeereviewed the residency programinspection schedule for 2007

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee met duringthe Midyear Meeting in Santa Fe. It wasa very productive meeting with reportsfrom the following committees: Secre-tary-treasurer, Awards, AOA Bureau ofOsteopathic Specialty Societies, Bylaws,CME Site Selection, Convention, Edito-

Executive Director’s Reportby Becky Mansfield, Executive Director The deadline for applications for

consideration as a Fellow of Distinctionis fast approaching.

By submitting the Fellow of Distinctionapplication by July 1, the FellowCommittee will be able to thoroughlyreview the applicant’s qualificationsand contributions in time for his or herinduction at the 2007 Annual AOCDConvention.

The honorary title of Fellow of Distinc-tion of the AOCD may be conferred on

members who have made outstandingcontributions through teaching, author-ship, research, or professionalleadership to the College.

For consideration as a Fellow ofDistinction, the applicant must submitan application to the FellowshipCommittee. If favorably reviewed, thecandidate’s application will bepresented to the Executive Committeeat the upcoming Annual Meeting. Uponsuccessful review by the ExecutiveCommittee, the applicant will be

presented to the general membershipat its annual business meeting. Upon a66% majority vote in favor of the candi-date’s credentials by the generalmembership, the Fellow of Distinctioncandidate will be inducted during thePresidential Banquet at the AnnualMeeting.

To obtain an application, either down-load one from the AOCD Web site atwww.aocd.org or contact the nationaloffice to request a copy.

Deadline for Fellows of Distinction Nearly Here

Upon recommendation of the FellowCommittee at the 2007 MidyearMeeting, the Executive Committeeapproved new criteria for a Fellow ofDistinction of the AOCD.

Effective in 2009, a candidate must:• Be a member of good standing

of the AOA for a period of notless than 7 years;

• Be a member in good standingof the AOCD for a period of notless than 7 years;

• Be a Diplomate of the AOBD fora period of not less than 7 years;

• Be recognized as a leaderamong his or her peers by being

active in the AOA, AOCD,and/or AOBD for at least 7years;

• Have obtained at least 100service points by working in anadministrative or educationalcapacity of the AOA, AOCD,and/or the AOBD for a period ofnot less than 7 years; and

• Have obtained 200 cumulativeservice points prior to fellowshipconsideration.

For more information about the Fellowsof Distinction, visit the AOCD Web siteat www.aocd.org.

New Criteria for Fellows of Distinction

The AOCD recently contributed $1,000to the AOA Greatness Fund.

At the Midyear Meeting, President BillWay, D.O., FAOCD, requested that theExecutive Committee make the dona-tion, which was unanimously approved.In doing so, the AOCD joins 10 othermedical associations in this endeavor.“The AOCD wishes to thank all the DOdermatologists who also made indi-vidual contributions to the AOAGreatness Fund,” says Dr. Way.

The fund is one of three programs thatcomprise the AOA GreatnessCampaign created to ensure that theAOA and the osteopathic profession

move from “good” to “great.” Thecampaign is designed to create agreater awareness of DOs and osteo-pathic medicine. Funds raised may beused to, for example, run a televisionad campaign, launch a nationalcampaign to improve the nation’shealth, or fund a multi-million dollarosteopathic research project.

AOA President John Strosnider, D.O., isasking each DO to contribute $1.37 aday, and interns and residents 69 centsa day for two years to the AOA Great-ness Fund. If every DO member madethis pledge, the AOA would raise morethan $29 million.

Another program, the AOA GreatnessCorps, affords DOs an opportunity toaffect and influence AOA policy byoffering suggestions on proposed reso-lutions. Members can do so by joiningthis e-community.

The third component of the campaign,the “1880 or Bust Gift Membership” isan invitation to DOs who are not AOAmembers or have not been memberssince May 31, 2005 to become onevalid through May 31, 2007.

To learn more about the AOA Great-ness Campaign, visit the AOA Web siteat www.do-online.org.

AOCD Contributes to AOA Greatness Campaign

is aproud supporter

of the

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I wish to thank all the attendees whoseparticipation helped make this year’sMidyear Meeting on March 28th- 31st,2007, in Santa Fe, such a phenomenalsuccess. The Executive Committeeknows just how hard it is for itsmembers to take time from their busi-ness and family responsibilities toattend. Your support of our College isgreatly appreciated.

Your Executive Committee and I hopethe attendees will let the rest of ourcolleagues, who were unable to attend,know just how great the midyear meet-ings have become.

We enjoyed excellent accommodations,cuisine, and refreshments at the ElDorado Hotel while taking in thenatural beauty of Santa Fe and NewMexico. We feasted our eyes withinspiring artwork, as well as our palateduring an evening reception at theGeorgia O’Keeffe museum. There wereengaging conversations along withuseful give-aways from more than 40vendors who graciously supported themeeting and its events. On the lastnight of the meeting, we partook in adelicious president’s dinner with horsd’oeurves, top shelf liquor, and asouthwestern buffet.

Educationally, the meeting was aresounding success with 23 hours ofCME credits. The residents’ lectures onWednesday evening and the attendinglectures on Thursday, Friday, andSaturday mornings were both engagingand informative. The ExecutiveCommittee and I want to thank all thelecturers for making this year’s meetinga truly outstanding one.

This year’s Midyear Meeting alsosuccessfully launched a few importantfirsts. An extremely sought after keynotespeaker, Bruce Christopher, psycholo-gist and humorist, gave two interactive

Midyear Meeting Highlightsby Marc I. Epstein, D.O., 2nd Vice President

Roger C. Byrd, D.O., FAOCD, ofRochester Hills, Mich., was named "TopDoc" by Hour Detroit Magazine for thesecond consecutive year.

“I was very pleased and surprised. Ihave no idea how my name got on thelist, but I’m glad it did,” he says,contrary to some of his colleagues whojoked that Dr. Byrd must havepurchased advertising space in themagazine to receive the recognition.

He learned of his place on the list inOctober 2005 when a staff memberinformed him. Last year, Dr. Byrdreceived a notice from the magazine.“It’s not like people began beating ourdoor down, but several patients haveremarked to us about it, which is agood thing,” he says. Dr. Byrd now hasa plaque acknowledging his “Top Doc”status hanging in the office. In addi-tion, the magazine hosted a party at

Symphony Hall in downtown Detroit forall of the doctors last year. “There wasa reception and a band,” he says. “Itwas a nice affair.”

In a congratulatory note to Dr. Byrd,John E. Bodell, D.O., President of theMichigan Osteopathic Associationwrote, “I congratulate you on beingnamed as a ‘Top Doc.’ To be nomi-nated is an honor for which you shouldbe especially proud, and you shouldknow that it is also a point of pride foryour colleagues. Thank you for thepositive exposure you garnered for theosteopathic profession, and thank youfor the leadership you exhibit throughyour work.”

Of the 12 dermatologists named, Dr.Byrd was the only osteopathic derma-tologist to make the list.

To choose the physicians, the maga-zine’s staff sends an annual survey tonearly 6,000 medical professionals inthe metro Detroit area asking them “Towhom would you refer a loved one formedical care?”

Dr. Byrd has been in private practice atRochester Dermatology since 1973. Healso is on staff at both Crittenton andBeaumont hospitals.

lectures that let us laugh while welearned: “Why Are Women So Strangeand Men So Weird” or “How toCommunicate Effectively, Reduce Frus-tration, and Increase Success in yourLife and Work” and “It’s Hard to Leadthe Charge…If You Think You LookFunny on a Horse—the Power of Atti-tude Mechanics.” You can get aglimpse of Bruce’s captivating perform-ances or a copy of them on his Website at www.bcseminars.com. Atten-dees don’t forget that Bruce isextending to you a 50% discount onvideos/DVDs/CDs of his lectures/semi-nars that you can share with your officestaff, family, friends, and/or colleagues.

Another first was an outstanding inter-active Live Patient Workshop led byMark Nestor M.D., Ph.D., a leadinginternational expert on Botox® andfillers. With the help of Dr. Contreras,M.D., a University of New Mexico

dermatology professor, we obtained atemporary state license for Dr. Nestor,so he could perform the injections. Anon-screen video projection allowed allattendees to experience a virtual frontrow viewing.

Lastly, as an incentive for attendance, adrawing was held for a 2-gigabyte

Memorex Flashdrive at the end of eachday’s lectures.

Your 3rd Vice-President, Dr. LeslieKramer, is already hard at work plan-ning our next Midyear Meeting slatedfor March 2008 in beautiful Monterey,Calif. If I were you, I would put it onyour CME schedule and RSVP as soonas registration begins, so you won’t bedisappointed when it fills up.

Finally, I want to thank (and when youget the chance you should too) ourExecutive Director Becky Mansfield andher staff; our Coordinator of CorporateDevelopment Shirley Gottlieb; our CMESite Selection Chair, Dr. Bob Schwarze,and his committee; our newslettereditor, Ruth Carol and her staff; andDr. Michael Scott for their invaluablehelp in putting on this year’s MidyearMeeting.

The speakers list is nearly complete forthe 2007 AOCD Annual Meeting slatedfor Sept. 30-Oct. 4 in San Diego.

While speakers may be addressingfamiliar dermatology topics, they will

be focusing on what is new and howrelated procedures/surgeries can beadded to one’s practice, explainsProgram Chair Jay Gottlieb, D.O.,FAOCD. “Attendees will be able to walkaway knowing how to add a particular

procedure to their practice or, based onwhat they learned, that they don’t wantto add it,” he says.A welcome reception will be heldSunday evening. Lectures will begin onMonday followed by the PresidentialBanquet that evening. Tuesday andWednesday will be devoted to bothresident and guest speakers. Several ofthe latter are College members.

Look for more details about the AnnualMeeting in the next issue of the AOCDNewsletter.

2007 Annual Meeting Shaping Up

Dr. Byrd Named “Top Doc”

Page 9

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Pedicabs are available daily alongmost downtown streets, particularly inthe Gaslamp Quarter and along theEmbarcadero in the Columbia andMarina neighborhoods.

San Diego Tour Coupes’ and GoCarTours, a fleet of three-wheel mini-carswere designed for tourists wanting toescape tour buses. Up to two peoplecan jump into these topless, miniaturevehicles and enjoy a GPS-guided audiotour highlighting 100 city sites.

Converted British double decker busesride through Old Town, Balboa Park,the Gaslamp District, Seaport Village,and the San Diego Zoo.

Although a Kayak tour won’t get youaround town, it will get you a view ofthe amazing San Diego sunsets. Enjoypaddling in the La Jolla Sea Caves andwitness the many sea lions sunning onthe cliffs late in the day as they feed.

Places to Visit

With sunny skies (Don’t forget thesunscreen!) and temperatures in the70s, take advantage of the 70 miles ofbeaches or other attractions in theother city by the bay.

The San Diego Zoo is one of thelargest, most progressive zoos in theworld with more than 4,000 animals of800-plus species on 100 acres of park-land in Balboa Park, just north ofdowntown along Park Boulevard. Thezoo is known for its giant pandas thatfirst came for a visit in 1987. Today,four bears live in the Giant PandaResearch Station. Don’t miss the newestand most ambitious exhibit at the zoo,the Monkey Trails and Forest Tails.

SeaWorld San Diego is celebratingAmerica’s musical heritage with theSea to Shining Sea Music Festival, Sept.29-30 and Oct. 6-7. The festivalfeatures four stages of live music. Don’tforget to check out the Journey toAtlantis, Shamu’s Happy Harbor, and“Believe,” a new Shamu show. Venturebeyond the public exhibits for a uniqueinteractive experience with the park’sarctic animals, including an in-pool

encounter with beluga whales, as partof Wild Arctic Interaction.

Take a guided tour through remoteAfrica and Asia and see exotic animalsin their habitats at the San Diego WildAnimal Park. The 1,800-acre wildlifesanctuary is home to more than 3,500animals representing 429 species,including the largest crash of rhinos inany zoological facility and one of theonly California condor exhibits in theworld. View animals lounging in theirnatural settings or come face-to-facewith Africa’s biggest cats at Lion Camp.Modeled after the hot air balloon toursof the Serengeti, the Balloon Safarioffers scenic views of the grounds.

LEGOLAND California offers morethan 50 rides, shows, and attractions.New this year, a recreation of the city ofLas Vegas built out of more than two-million bricks. Also new is CaptainCranky’s Challenge, a ride that will testanybody’s sea worthiness, located inthe park’s Pirates Shores.

The region boasts a variety of vine-yards, from large wineries that featureguided tours and gift shops to smallfamily-run places where you can elbowup to the oak bar to taste a fume blancand petite sirah. Most wineries arelocated off Interstate 15, approximatelya 45-minute to an hour’s drive north ofdowntown San Diego. These includethe Bernardo Winery, Falkner Winery,Fallbrook Winery, and Orfila Vine-yards. If you don’t want to leave thearea, visit the San Diego Wine & Culi-nary Center located downtown. Thecenter offers tours that feature anexplanation of the winemaking processalong with a barrel tasting.

Events

The city is hopping the week of theAnnual Meeting. The following is asample of events.

The Fleet Week Parade of Ships is Sept.30 on the Bay. Watch the parade ofaircraft carriers, U.S. & internationalships, Navy SEALS, Navy submarines,Coast Guard cutters, harrier jets, andhelicopters. Tickets are $25.

Adams Avenue Street Fair on Sept. 29and 30 is Southern California’s largestfree music festival. It features morethan 80 musical acts on seven outdoorstages. The fair that takes place onAdams Avenue, between Bancroft and35th streets, also has more than 400food, arts and craft vendors, andcarnival rides.

The 6th Annual San Diego Film Festivalto be held Sept. 27-30 in the GaslampQuarter features 100 award-winningfilms, intimate gatherings with film-makers and celebrities, high-poweredindustry workshops, and four nights ofthe city’s most glamorous parties.Tickets range in price from $10 to$250.

The AFC West Division Champion SanDiego Chargers host division rivalKansas City at QUALCOMM Stadiumat 1:15 p.m. on Sept. 30.

As part of the Old Globe Theatre’srenowned summer ShakespeareFestival, you can catch Measure forMeasure, Hamlet, or The TwoGentlemen of Verona. If the Bard is notyour taste, see the world premieremusical, A Catered Affair, by TonyAward-winner Harvey Fierstein at thethree-venue complex in Balboa Park.

For more information on San Diegoevents, visit the Web sitewww.sandiego.org/event.

Framed by inland mountains and oneof the most beautiful natural harbors inthe world, San Diego will be host of the2007 AOCD Annual Meeting slated forSept. 30-Oct. 4.

The second largest city in Californiacomprises several charming anddistinct neighborhoods to strollthrough, or party in, depending onyour preference.

Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a 16.5 blockhistoric district located around Fourthand Fifth Avenues. It is filled with grandVictorian-era buildings that are hometo more than 100 restaurants, 40nightclubs, and 100 retail shops, aswell as theaters and art galleries.Cuisines to be savored include Afghan,Brazilian, Chinese, Indian, Italian,Mexican, Persian, Spanish, and Thai.

For a guided walking tour of the area,contact the Gaslamp Quarter HistoricalFoundation. On the map is the WilliamHeath Davis Historical House Museum,which is the oldest surviving structure inthe district dating back to 1850.Galleries include the Tim CantorGallery, C Gallery, Michael J. Wolf FineArts, and the Brokers Building ArtGallery. The Horton Grand Theater ishome to the long running “TripleExpresso—a highly caffeinatedcomedy.” For some old time rock ‘n’roll, check out the Shout! House, whichfeatures dueling piano playersperforming classic rock ‘n’ roll hits fromthe 1950s to the present, driven byaudience request.

East Village

Downtown’s largest neighborhoodencompassing 130 blocks, the EastVillage burst into life in the past two

years. The revitalization was fueledprimarily by the building of PETCOPark, the San Diego Padres’ state-of-the-art baseball stadium that opened in2004. Today, scattered throughout thevillage are restaurants, rooftop bars,cafes, boutique shops, galleries, andlive music venues.

Be one of the first to walk the $10.2million Park-to-Bay Link, a self-anchored, pedestrian-friendly,tree-lined bridge connecting BalboaPark and the San Diego Bay slated forcompletion in August. Set along 12thAvenue, the suspension bridge willfeature a 500-foot curved span, stain-less steel-wrapped suspension cablerailing, a two-car glass elevator tower,landscaped plazas, public art, and SanDiego Trolley stations.

Columbia

Located along Broadway stretchingtoward the Broadway Pier on SanDiego Bay, Columbia is home to theMuseum of Contemporary Art SanDiego, the downtown expansion thatopened in January. Built for thePanama-California Exposition in 1915,the building provides more than10,500 square feet of new exhibitionspace.

Climb aboard the USS MidwayMuseum to explore the rich Navyheritage of the city that serves as head-quarters for the 11th U.S. Navaldistrict. Learn about America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier with 35 exhibitsand tours exploring its 47-year history.

Many of the story-telling docents areveterans who served aboard the carrier.The floating Maritime Museum of SanDiego features one of the finest collec-tions of historic ships in the world,including the Star of India, the oldestactive sailing ship.

Horton Plaza

A multi-level, outdoor shopping andentertainment center, Horton Plazaoffers 130 specialty shops, restaurants,a movie theatre, and performing artstheatre. Well known for its whimsicaland vibrantly colored design, it wascreated to resemble a Europeanmarket place and function like anamusement park with colorful path-ways, bridges, and staggered levels.There you will find the Lyceum Theater,home to the San Diego RepertoryTheatre featuring comedies anddramas exploring cultural diversity. TheSpreckels Theater built in 1912 hostsshows ranging from special theatricalengagements to rock concerts to danceperformance by the City Ballet of SanDiego.

Getting Around Town

Downtown San Diego is best exploredon foot, with short city blocks and moststreets running one way in a gridpattern for easy navigation. For thosewith weary feet, the following alternatemodes of transportation exist:

The San Diego Trolley light rail systemoffers routes running to various pointsthroughout the downtown area.

San Diego: From Natural Harbors to a Dazzling Downtown

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Thirty-two new residents will begin their residency programs as of July 1.

The new residents are as follows:• Wade Keller, D.O. (AZCOM/AZ Desert Dermatology & Surgery P.C.);• Saira Momin, D.O., (Valley Hospital Medical Center);• Christopher Weyer, D.O., (Northeast Regional Medical Center);• Denise Guevara, D.O., and Prethi Sundaram, D.O., (Wellington Regional Medical Center);• Reagan Anderson, D.O., and Brandon Minor, D.O., (Oakwood Southshore Medical Center);• Shannon Campbell, D.O., and Keoni Nguyen, D.O., (O’Bleness Memorial Hospital);• Jack Griffith, D.O., (Pacific Hospital/Western University);• Michelle Jeffries, D.O., (COMP/Phoenix Area Dermatology);• Michelle Foley, D.O., and Derrick Adams, D.O., (Pontiac/Botsford Osteopathic Hospital);• Lyubov Avshalumova, D.O., Johnny Gurgen, D.O., and Risa Ross, D.O., (NSUCOM/Sun Coast Hospital);• Amara Sayed, D.O., and Andleeb Usmani, D.O., (Columbia Hospital);• Nicole Bright, D.O., Melinda Conroy, D.O., and Joseph Laskas, D.O., (Frankford Hospital);• Christofer Buatt, D.O., (Genesys Regional Medical Center);• Matthew Elias, D.O., Emily Rubenstein, D.O., and Angela Combs, D.O., (NSU-COM/BGMC);• Travis Lam, D.O., and Heather Volkman, D.O., (OUCOM/UHHS Richmond Heights Hospital);• Krina Chavda, D.O., (St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, South Shore);• Patrick Keehan, D.O., (Northeast Regional Medical Center) and;• David Cleaver, D.O., Jason Mazzurco, D.O., and Brooke Sliger, D.O., (St. Joseph Mercy Health System).

The AOCD welcomes the new residents and wishes them the best of luck in their endeavors.

AOCD Welcomes 32 New ResidentsBoth the number of graduates fromcolleges of osteopathic medicine(COMs) and osteopathic medicalinternship positions approved by theAOA continues to increase, accordingto a study published in a recent issue ofthe Journal of the American Osteo-pathic Association (JAOA).

Using annual data from the AOA’sIntern/Resident Registration Program aswell as the Trainee Information, Verifi-cation, and Registration Audit, thenumber of graduates rose two percentwhile the number of internship posi-tions rose one percent for the2004-2005 academic year.

The number of dermatology residentsfollowed suit. In 2003-2004, therewere 19 programs, 97 positions, and53 residents. In 2004-2005, there were18 programs, 95 positions, and 56residents. In 2005-2006, there were 19programs, 106 positions, and 66 resi-dents.

These numbers are slightly differentfrom the numbers calculated by theAOCD. For example, in 2003-2004,the College reports 15 programs, 71positions available, and 66 positionsfilled. In 2004-2005, there were 15programs, 84 positions available, and74 positions filled. In 2005-2006,there were 18 programs, 98 positionsavailable, and 86 positions filled. In2006-2007, the AOCD reports thereare 20 programs, 111 positions avail-able, and 86 residents.

Becky Mansfield, AOCD ExecutiveDirector, says the discrepancy may bebecause the hospitals do not turn intheir numbers at the same time. Eitherway, both sets of figures do point to anincrease in the number of dermatologyresident graduates.

The study appeared in the February2007 issue of the JAOA, Vol. 107, No.2.

Number of DO Graduates on the Rise

AOCD members who want to tee off atnext year’s Midyear Meeting, March12-15, 2008 in Monterey, Calif., are inthe process of planning a golf tourna-ment.

The proposed site for the tournament isthe Del Monte Golf Course, a part ofPebble Beach Resorts. This beautifulcourse is one of the oldest and moststoried courses in the country and is theoldest active golf course west of theMississippi River, says President BillWay, D.O., FAOCD. For more informa-tion on the course, visitpebblebeach.com and click on the“Delmonte Course” under the Golfmenu. It is conveniently located adja-cent to the Hyatt Regency Monterey,which is the meeting site. “We alreadyhave close to 20 responses and arelooking for more participants,” he says.

If interested in participating, pleasecontact Dr. Way atdrwaydo@swbell.net.

Golfers WantedMore information regarding the tour-nament will come in subsequent issuesof the AOCD Newsletter. We hope tosee you on the course!

Hi Everyone,

It will soon be time to submit yourAnnual Reports. Remember these aredue 30 days after your training periodends or late fees will be assessed. Allthe necessary forms can be down-loaded from the AOCD Web site atwww.aocd.org/reports. Don’t forget toinclude the Paper Documentation form,which also needs to be signed by yourprogram director. All documents mustbe received before your training yearcan be approved. One suggestion:Submit everything at the same time. Asresidents, it is your responsibility tomake sure these reports are submitted.

Plans are underway for the AnnualMeeting in San Diego. Mailings arescheduled to go out in the near future.The In-Training Exam is scheduled forSunday, September 30, 2007, startingat 7 a.m. Your 2007 AOCD duesMUST BE PAID before you can takethis exam.

If you are planning to present a lectureat the Annual Meeting and have notturned in an Intent-to-Lecture Form,time is running out. Please e-mail orfax your intent to me ASAP.

Information has been submitted to theAmerican Academy of Dermatology forresidents to receive their complimentarysubscription to the Journal of the Amer-ican Academy of Dermatology (JAAD)based on the current mailing addresswe have on file. If you have moved orare moving, it is your responsibility tosubmit a change of address to theJAAD. Residents will also begin toreceive a complimentary subscription toCosmetic Dermatology.

The 2007 Scripps Course entitledSuperficial Anatomy & SubcutaneousSurgery is scheduled for July 9-13,2007 in San Diego. Medicis hasprovided a grant for AOCD third-yearresidents (as of 7-07) to attend.

Currently, 32 new residents will starttheir residencies July 1.

Residents who celebrated April birth-days are Drs. Greg Severs, RyanCarlson, Lawrence Schiffman, and JonKeeling.

Those who celebrated May birthdaysare Drs. Kaija Hanneman, AaronBruce, Angela Leo, Kevin DeHart, andKelly DeHart.

Residents celebrating June birthdaysare Drs. Asfa Akhtar, Merrick Elias,Lynora Bassett, Joseph Schneider,Patricia Klem, Dwayne Montie, AndrewRacette, and Dan Marshall.

Residents Updateby Marsha Wise, Resident Coordinator

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Pacific Hospital/Western University Resi-dent Will Kirby, D.O., is joining the castof doctors on “Dr. 90210” this fall.

The series, which airs on cable televi-sion channel E!, showcases plasticsurgeons (and now an osteopathicdermatologist) who work in BeverlyHills. The show is divided into threeparts, explains the Co-Chief Resident ofthe Long Beach, Calif.-based program.It chronicles the doctors’ social lives,their interactions with patients, and thepatients’ lives. Dr. Kirby refers to the

show’s format as documentary televi-sion, what he calls a hybrid of realityTV. “Everything you see is true, but ithas been embellished a bit to make itmore exciting for TV,” he says, adding,“If you followed me for the whole day,you’d fall asleep. So for purposes ofthe story they film the most interestingevents.”

Dr. Kirby presented cases to the show’sproducers who, in turn, presented themto E! Once approved, the camerasstarted rolling. He began filming thefive episodes scheduled to air in Julyduring the spring. “I was told that thefourth episode is the most controversialone that they have ever had,” says Dr.Kirby, who was unable to divulge thecase.

Filming took place in his office at LosAngeles-based Coast Dermatology,which has its share of celebrity clients.Program Director David Horowitz,D.O., FAOCD, and Co-Director MarkHorowitz, D.O. were very consideratewith Dr. Kirby’s schedule, allowing himto participate in the show. Still, theshooting schedule proved difficult at

times. “It’s unpredictable becausesometimes patients need to be seenright away and then you need to call inthe camera crew at the last minute,” hesays.

But the real pressure Dr. Kirby feels hasnothing to do with juggling a busydermatology residency with a TVcareer. “There’s a lot of pressure on menot only because I’m the only derma-tologist, but I’m the only osteopath onthe show,” he says. “I want to makemyself look good and present theprofession in a positive light.”

Although no stranger to the land ofreality TV as Dr. Kirby was the grandprize winner of CBS's “Big Brother 2”and a houseguest on “Big Brother: All-Stars,” he describes filming “Dr.90210” as the most pleasurable expe-rience. “I’ve worked as a realitycontestant, host, and producer. But thishas been my favorite project because Idictate what happens. I get to produce,host, and star at the same time.”

Dr. Kirby Joins Cast of ‘Dr. 90210’

Third-year Resident Tejas Desai, D.O.,at the Western University/PacificHospital in Long Beach, Calif., was therecent recipient of two internationalawards.

As winner of the World Congress ofDermatology Award, Dr. Desai willpresent his research involving highfrequency ultrasound in the evaluationof superficial and nodular basal cellcarcinomas in October in Buenos Aires,Argentina.

Next April, he will represent the Amer-ican Academy of Dermatology at theIrish Association of Dermatologists’(IAD) Annual Congress to be held inBelfast. Dr. Desai was chosen by theCommittee on International Affairs toreceive the IAD Fellowship to attend the

meeting. He will present the sameresearch at this meeting.

“The research involves imaging skincancers by noninvasive means,” hesays, adding, “This technology couldrevolutionize the way we treat cuta-neous neoplasms.”

Previously, Dr. Desai won the AllerganResearch Award, Ulbrich ResearchAward, and the Simon GreenbergResearch Grant for this research. Hepresented it at the 2005 annual Amer-ican Society of Dermatologic Surgerymeeting in Atlanta, Ga., and as aposter presentation at the 2006 annualAmerican College of Mohs Micro-graphic Surgery and CutaneousOncology meeting in Scottsdale.

“I am grateful for the accolades I havereceived regarding this research,” Dr.Desai says, “but I could not haveexcelled this much without the supportand positive attitudes of those aroundme.”

Resident Wins Two International AwardsSecond-year Resident Kevin Belasco,D.O., at Sun Coast Hospital Derma-tology Residency Program/NovaSoutheastern College of OsteopathicMedicine in Largo, Fla., was an invitedspeaker at the 16th AnnualFlorida/Caribbean AIDS Education &Training Center Conference held inMarch.

His lecture was entitled “EmergingIssues in HIV: MRSA Skin Infections.” Itfocused on early diagnosis, prevention,and treatment of community-acquiredand hospital-associated methicilllin-

resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)infections in the setting of HIV, says Dr.Belasco. He also discussed theepidemiology of MRSA and recenttrends toward multidrug resistance.

Lecturing to the group of more than 70physicians, pharmacists, and nurseswas challenging, given the diverserange of experience among the audi-ence in this field, he says. “I enjoyteaching and have always been inter-ested in infectious disease dermatology.I also wanted to contribute in some wayto the emerging topic of MRSA, espe-

cially in the setting of HIV. As derma-tologists-in-training, I believe we shouldgain a strong understanding of infec-tious disease dermatology.”

In addition, Dr. Belasco contributed achapter entitled “Dermatological Mani-festations of HIV/AIDS” published lastyear in the HIV/AIDS Primary CareGuide, which was edited by membersof the Florida/Caribbean AIDS Educa-tion and Training Center based at theUniversity of South Florida.

Resident Speaks at AIDS Conference

The American Society for DermatologicSurgery (ASDS) has accepted TonyNakhla’s, D.O., abstract for presenta-tion at its 2007 annual meeting.

Dr. Nakhla is a first-year Resident atPacific Hospital/Western University inLong Beach, Calif. The abstract hesubmitted in spring is entitled“Cerclage Technique for RepairingLarge Circular Defects of the Trunk:Case Report of a Staged Excision of aPlexiform Neurofibroma.” The ASDSmeeting is scheduled for October inChicago.

“I am excited and honored that myabstract was accepted,” says Dr.Nakhla. “Since my focus is in surgicaldermatology, I hope to further myeducation at the meeting and also inte-grate myself into the ASDS communityamong the leaders in dermatologicsurgery.”

Dr. Nakhla, who is under the director-ship of David Horowitz, D.O., FAOCD,eventually plans to do a Mohs fellow-ship, a cosmetic surgical fellowship, ora combined program for both disci-plines.

ASDS Accepts Resident’s Paper forPresentation

Third-year Resi-dent Jon Keeling,D.O., atWellingtonRegional MedicalCenter in WestPalm Beach, Fla.,was the recipientof an AmericanSociety of Derma-tologic Surgery (ASDS) PreceptorshipAward.

As part of the award, he will spend oneweek in June—all expenses paid—withLeon Kircik, M.D., in Louisville, Ky. Therotation will focus on Mohs Micro-graphic Surgery, as well as cosmeticprocedures, such as Botox® injections,fillers, and laser treatments.

Dr. Keeling was notified in May that hewon the award he applied for inFebruary. “The preceptorship offers mea unique opportunity to learn newsurgical and cosmetic procedural tech-niques,” he says.

Dr. Keeling met Dr. Kircik at theCaribbean Dermatology Symposium inJanuary. It was there that the derma-tology resident learned about the typesof procedures that Dr. Kircik offers inhis practice.

Resident ReceivesASDS PreceptorshipAward

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Potential award winners have only twoweeks left to submit an application forthe second annual Intendis MentoringGrant.

Applications are being acceptedthrough June 30, 2007.

This award creates, finances, andprovides residents with an opportunityto study with leading experts who havea specific expertise. The grant will beused to cover the recipient’s cost oftravel, housing, and subsistence for theweek of special rotation up to a givenamount.

The recipient is required to submit apaper suitable for publicationconcerning the experience. This papermust be turned in within 60 days afterthe rotation is complete. Submission ofexpenses also is required.

Open to second- and third-year resi-dents in good standing with the AOCD,the grant has two positions availableper year.

Residents who would like to receive theaward should complete an application,which consists of the following:

• a one-page essay describing whythe applicant wishes to receivethis grant

• one copy of the applicant'scurrent curriculum vitae

Application for this grant may besubmitted even if a comparable appli-cation to other organizations has beenmade. If the recipient accepts a similarscholarship from another agency ororganization, this grant application willbe withdrawn. It is the responsibility ofthe recipient to notify the Intendis GrantCommittee of competing awards.

The resident may select the expertphysician with whom he/she plans torotate. The mentor cannot be a relativeand must be practicing in the conti-nental United States. Final approval willbe given by the Intendis GrantCommittee.

This grant must be used in the year forwhich it is designated and cannot bepostponed.

Last Call for Intendis Mentoring Grant Applications

graduated from the program have wonat least one academic AOCD award,and several have won the KoprinceAward. He is even proud of his resi-dents showing in the recent DermpathBowl I, which was modeled after theSuper Bowl, held at the 65th annualAAD meeting this past February.Making it into the semi-finals provesthat they can compete with the best ofthe dermatology programs in thecountry, says Dr. Miller.

Bottom Line

Looking toward the future, he wouldlike to add opportunities for his resi-dents to conduct more clinical researchstudies. As a delegate of the DermFoundation, Dr. Miller believes thatconducting ongoing research is the keyto improving the quality of careprovided by osteopathic dermatolo-gists.

Adding such an opportunity lends itselfto Dr.Miller’s goal of providing the resi-

RESI

DEN

TSSPOTLIGHT

Multiple trainers, practice locations,and training sites are the key topreparing residents at Sun CoastHospital Dermatology ResidencyProgram/Nova Southeastern College ofOsteopathic Medicine (Sun CoastHospital/NSCOM) for a well-roundedcareer in dermatology.

To be exact, the program has sevengeneral dermatology trainers, threedermatopathology trainers, and arecently added cosmetic surgeon withwhom residents rotate. In addition toseeing patients at Sun Coast Hospital,residents will begin rotations at the BayPines Veterans Administration (VA)Hospital, touted as one of the top fivebusiest VA hospitals in the country,which recently joined the program.Plus, there are six training sites locatedaround the Tampa Bay area.

But the variety doesn’t stop with thetrainers. Patient populations at thedifferent offices range from workingclass to upper middle class to retirees,the latter of whom are taking advan-tage of the warm, sunny climate.

Although Sun Coast Hospital/ NSCOMresidents perform a range of derma-tology procedures, that climatecontributes to the large number ofsurgeries they perform to excise skincancers.

Additionally the program, which beganin 1995, operates a contact dermatitisclinic established by a former associatewho was a Fellow of the College ofContact Dermatitis. Over the years, shetrained the residents how to performpatch testing, and now the residentsrun the patch test clinic and teach thoseskills to the new residents, three ofwhich will be joining the program thisJuly. “We’re the only site in the TampaBay area that has more than 300 aller-gens to test against,” boasts ProgramDirector Richard Miller, D.O., FAOCD,who has served as director since theprogram’s inception.

Regimented Schedule

One thing that does not vary is the resi-dents’ schedule. “The program has avery regimented, didactic schedule thatwe don’t waiver from,” he says.

A typical week looks something like thefollowing. On Mondays, residentsspend the first half of the day doingdermatopathology. This is followed bydidactic learning sessions with lecturersand a review of various topics. In theafternoon, they go to various differentclinics where they have a one-on-oneexperience with a trainer. On Tuesdays,Wednesdays, and Fridays, the residentswork with an assigned trainer. Afterone month, they rotate trainers. Resi-dents have the same schedule onThursday mornings as they do Mondaymornings, but in the afternoon theywork at a hospital run indigent derma-tology care center. Every other weekresidents have an extra half-day ofclinic duty.

Every six months, they rotate for oneweek between dermatopathologyoffices, one in Fort Lauderdale and theother in West Palm Beach. Residentsdevote one to two weeks each year to apediatric dermatology rotation inKansas City, Mo. In addition to thatelective, they can choose one monthfor an elective per year. Resident desti-nations have included the University ofSan Francisco and Mayo Clinic, amongothers.

Courses Aside

Outside the classroom, the residentspresent a lecture to the hospital staff atweekly grand rounds. They attend amonthly journal club, as well.

As a community service, the residentsconduct monthly skin screenings. Theseare usually conducted at the hospital,but sometimes are done at the beach.

They also run a Cosmetic Clinic Dayfour times a year. Residents performpeels, collagen and Botox® injections,and laser treatments for hospital nursesand staff at cost. This clinic enables thehospital staff to afford cosmetic proce-dures while the residents gain theexperience. The Cosmetic Day hasbecome extremely popular, notes Dr.Miller.

Because he believes that it is importantto be published, Dr. Miller requires hisresidents to write an extra paperbeyond the other residency programrequirements. He also expects all resi-dents to be published during theirresidency and requires their seniorpapers to be of American Academy ofDermatology (AAD) continuing medicaleducation quality. Additionally, Dr.Miller requires them to present postersat the AAD annual meeting.

All of the hard work appears to havepaid off. All 11 Sun CoastHospital/NSCOM residents who have

Variety Prepares Sun Coast Hospital/NSCOM Residents dents with a very well-roundedapproach to patient care.

“When the residents graduate from thisprogram, they’re prepared to go intoany type of practice they choose,” hesays. “They have learned everythingfrom pediatric to cosmetic derma-tology. And they know the business partof the practice because they havelearned how to run an office fromcoding charts to working with staff tomanage patient flow.”

The AOCD and Ferndale Laboratories,Inc. are pleased to announce theYoung Professional DevelopmentGrant.

The new grant will provide financialsupport for two board-certified derma-

tologists, who have been in practice forat least three years and no more thanfive years, to study for one week with adermatologist who has a specificexpertise. This grant would enable thedermatologists to acquire specific new

skills to enhance their professionalcareers.

For more information about the grant,contact Becky Mansfield, AOCD Execu-tive Director, at aocd@swbell.net.

Ferndale Labs Sponsors New Grant

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clinics. “One place in the mountainshas a thatched hut roof, cement floor,and bathroom with shower,” Dr.Cleaver says. “On occasion, you mighthave some hot water, but more likely,you won’t. Still, you’re up in the moun-tains and it’s very pleasant.”

The next time he makes the trek, Dr.Cleaver will be staying on a 46-footsailboat, which was recently purchasedby a foundation called “True North”established by the physicians to helpfund the missions. The boat will enablethem to travel to villages that can onlybe accessed by the river. Once there,they can dock over night in areas thatlack any accommodations. The boatcan accommodate eight persons plus acaptain and a cook. One of the physi-

cians doubles as thecaptain. Dr. Cleaverisn’t ready to take oncaptain duties justyet, even though hedid serve in the U.S.Navy, which is howhe became inter-ested in tropicalmedicine.

The physician group also plans tomake boat missions to Guatemala.Additionally, they are trying to establisha clinic in Haiti. Next year, Dr. Cleaverplans to make three trips, especially ifhe hires an associate to free up someof his time.

Dr. Cleaver hopes that spending histime in this manner helps “make adifference.” In addition, he feelsrefreshed when he returns from one ofthese trips. “Sure’ it’s providing thesepeople with care, but it’s also providingme with care,” he says. “It’s good forthe soul.”

Want to thank the outgoing CollegePresident for all his hard work,welcome the incoming President, orcongratulate a resident upon gradua-tion?

You can by placing an ad in the AOCDAd Journal that will be presented at thePresidential Banquet during the 2007AOCD Annual Meeting slated for Sept.30-Oct. 4 in San Diego.

An Ad Journal serves as a living historyof the AOCD, as well as being a nicekeepsake, says Coordinator of Corpo-rate Development Shirley Gottlieb, whois spearheading it. In light of theCollege’s 50th anniversary, the AdJournal will highlight major dates andaccomplishment made by the Collegeover the last five decades, as well asthe incoming and outgoing ExecutiveCommittee.

Contributing to the Ad Journal is a wayfor members to show their appreciationfor all of the AOCD’s efforts, she says.Once residents start practicing, they getvery busy and there’s a tendency toforget those who made it possible forthem to achieve all that they have. Asthey continue in their careers, memberswant to attend meetings with qualityspeakers and workshops. The AOCDnot only plays an important role in

training future dermatologists, but inenabling them to keep their medicaleducation and skills current. “The morefunds we have, the better able theCollege can provide these services forits membership,” she says, adding“Contributing to the Ad Journal is away for members to give back to theorganization that made it possible for

them to become osteopathic dermatol-ogists.”

If you have not received your AdJournal form or would like more infor-mation about it, contact Gottlieb atshirleygottlieb@aol.com.

2007 Ad Journal to Honor 50th Anniversary

VO

LUN

TEER

SPOTLIGHT

Many are lured to Belize by its barrierreefs, tropical forests, and mysteriousMayan temples. But others like LloydCleaver, D.O., FAOCD, are lured bythe opportunity to provide dermatolog-ical and primary care to the largelyunderserved Belizean populationcomprising the Mestizo, Creole, Gari-funa, and Maya.

Dr. Cleaver made his first trip to Belizeseven years ago with a group of physi-cians, including faculty from theKirksville College of Osteopathic Medi-cine (KCOM) in Missouri where heserves as Assistant Dean for ContinuingMedical Education (CME) and AlumniIssues. The trip was arranged by theKirksville Rotary Club and faculty fromboth KCOM and Truman State Univer-sity. That group was composed largelyof audiologists and speech pathologistswho realized that there was a muchgreater need for basic health care.

To encourage other physicians toparticipate, Dr. Cleaver combined aCME program on tropical medicinewith the mission experience. He haseven reached out to the larger KCOMcommunity at A.T. Still University, whichconsists of four other schools, to getphysicians to join in. “We’re trying toset up a cadre of doctors with experi-ence and interest in tropical medicinewho also can serve as preceptors forresidents and medical students,” saysthe dermatologist who sets aside twoweeks in April to make the trip.

Back in Time

Visiting some of the villages in innerand southern Belize is like going backin time 500 years, says Dr. Cleaver.“They have thatched huts and nomodern conveniences.” Other villagesare semi-modern, but very impover-ished.

No matter what village they visit, thephysicians are very well received. Infact, before they started making thesemissions, some of the villagers hadnever seen a physician, he adds. “Thepeople are very grateful for their careand they have many health care

needs.” With board certification infamily practice, Dr. Cleaver findshimself providing a good deal ofprimary care. At least half of thepatients, however, have dermatologicalconditions, most of which are chronic.

Upon arrival in a village, there isusually a community leader who greetsthe physicians and announces theirpresence to the villagers. Often timesthe physicians set up shop in a school,church, or public building. On a typicalday, they see as many as 250 patients.Then they load up their 12-passengervan with equipment and supplies andmove to the next village.

Diagnosing Tropical Diseases

Eco-parasitic diseases and leishmani-asis are just some of the tropical skinconditions that Dr. Cleaver has comeacross. He also has treated patients formore common skin diseases such asatopic dermatitis, as well as superficialand deep fungal infections. The moist,warm climate contributes to the diseaseprogression, which is often more exten-sive than what he sees in patients backin the states. “At least here even if aperson doesn’t receive regular care, heor she can go down the street to thedrugstore to buy a cream that mayhelp,” notes Dr. Cleaver. “There, theyjust don’t have that option.”Diagnosing conditions can be tricky inthe tropics without many of the diag-

nostic tools, such as laboratory tests,the doctors take for granted in thestates. “You’re basically relying ongood physical examinations and evalu-ations to make diagnostic decisions,”he explains. “I think it makes you abetter physician because it requires youto be very accurate in your diagnosticskills.” Prescriptions also are limited towhatever the doctors bring in theformulary.

In addition to bringing medications, thephysicians began giving spiral note-books to the patients to record the carethey receive. There are no medicalrecords, Dr. Cleaver points out. Theyhope that the use of the notebooks willlend itself to continuity of care.

Fortunately, communication is not toomuch of a barrier. Formerly known asthe British Honduras, many of theBelizeans speak English. The MayanIndians, however, speak their owndialect. Someone who speaks Spanishcan usually understand them, says Dr.Cleaver. Hiring interpreters is some-times necessary to be able to discussthe patients’ health problems.

Accommodations

While there, physicians have a varietyof accommodations, all of which hedescribes as spartan. There are resortsin the villages and a dormitory on thefarm of a nurse who runs one of the

Dermatologist Treks to Belize to Treat Tropical Disease

We are dedicated to helping patients

attain a healthy and youthful appearance

and self-image.

© 2007 Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation MED 07-003 01/30/08

Page 20

The AOA iLEARN Mentor Program is now accepting nominations for the 2007Mentor of the Year.

The AOA Mentor Recognition Program was developed in association with thePfizer Medical Humanities Initiative to honor DOs who help shape the future ofthe osteopathic medical profession through their involvement with students andyoung physicians. Through their service, mentors bring a sense of pride to theprofession and promote the art and science of osteopathic medicine.

Criteria used to select the winner include the following:1. The mentor fosters the long-term development from mentee to DO

colleague, encouraging mentees to develop individual talents andstrengths as an advisor and guide.

2. The mentor facilitates mentees in acquiring the skills and resourcesneeded to succeed as scholars and professionals.

3. The mentor acts as an advocate and leader in professional matters suchas presentation of research findings, post-doctoral options, job place-ment, and practice development.

4. The mentor demonstrates respect and a sincere and active interest in thewell being of mentees.

5. The mentor is an AOA member in good standing.

Nominations, which may be submitted online or through the mail, are acceptedfrom students, interns, residents, DOs, and AOA Affiliates. Applications are avail-able on the AOA Web site at www.do-online.org. The deadline for nominationsis July 22.

The winner will be announced during the 112th AOAAnnual Convention and Scientific Seminar to be heldSept. 30-Oct. 4 in San Diego. The winner will receivethe AOA Mentor of the Year trophy and a $5,000monetary award, and will be featured in The DOmagazine. Five finalists will be selected and each willreceive a $1,000 monetary award.

AOA Looking for a Few Good Mentors

Entire books and lecture series havebeen devoted to increasing office effi-ciency. The following are a fewsuggestions on this hot topic.

Know how long procedures reallytake.

Often, we guess how long it takes toperform a procedure only to laterrealize the actual time is longer. On theother hand, assistants often overesti-mate the length of time needed as theyfactor in Occupational Safety andHealth Administration compliancesteps, laboratory work, paper work,sterilization, and instrument setup.

SOLUTION: Take a two-week timeaudit to determine true proceduretimes. This will help improve the sched-uling of appointments.

Train assistants to perform all theprocedures that the law allows.

Happiest assistants are those who aregiven expanded duties, as well as morecontrol and responsibility for their work(per psychologist and TV personality Dr.Phil).

Financial Tidbitsby Robert Schwarze, D.O., FAOCD

SOLUTION: Develop a plan fortraining and cross-training (in case ofabsence) staff. Consider hiring ateacher from a local medical assistants’school to do so.

Work in a global time paradigm asopposed to a microscopic one!

Be aware of the physical layout in theclinical area with respect to good timemanagement. Does it flow wellenabling patients to maneuver conve-niently and quickly? Periodically, I havemy office manager walk through theclinical area to check for “flow” inaddition to other areas of concern andrisk management. Too many assistantsare myopic, but they need to be awareof other office activities besides theirimmediate tasks.

SOLUTION: Discuss “flow” at officemeetings.

Make sure that when you enter theexamination room, everything thatneeds to be “ready” is.

It makes no difference if you areperforming a procedure or making amedical diagnosis. Everything shouldbe ready, including the chart.

SOLUTION: Create your own checklistof things that should be done and inplace prior to every patient visit.

Make sure that staff supports efficientexams and procedures.

Last week, as I was ready to enter aroom, my assistant told me that therewas a “funny looking” mole on thepatient’s scalp. In anticipation of thebiopsy, the assistant had the room fullyprepared for it.

SOLUTION: Train staff to be preparedfor the unforeseen circumstances thattypically occur with dermatologypatients.

“No dull knives.”

Have the best and most efficient equip-ment ready at all times.

SOLUTION: Teach staff the differencebetween commonly used equipment,for example, electronic thermometersare faster than mercury types.

Hire employees who work efficientlyand effectively.

While at a doctor’s office, I watchedthe person who ultimately placed me inthe exam room take 15 minutes to talkto her husband about personal prob-lems. As a patient, I felt short changedand I realized that the boss probablyhad no idea that this was occurring,not to mention how inefficient anddisorganized the practice presenteditself.

SOLUTION: Ensure that staff worksefficiently and effectively as anythingless than that is a poor reflection of thepractice.

Handle emergencies efficiently.

Patient emergencies occur and they willalter the schedule, but I use my lunchtime for add-ons so as not to delay thewhole day’s schedule.

SOLUTION: Develop a companyculture that emphasizes time manage-ment and all your patients willappreciate it.

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Sign Up toBecome anAOA MentorIf you would like to become anAOA Mentor, fill out a mentorprofile atwww.osteopathic.org/YOM/Mentor_exchange.htm. Yourinformation will be added tothe mentor database. Menteesseeking a mentor relationshipwill choose criteria within theirareas of interest. Mentors willbe notified when a mentee hasselected their profile. Thementor is then responsible formaking initial contact withintwo weeks of receiving notifi-cation to establish a mentorrelationship.

You may be getting a call from theGallup Organization this year to partic-ipate in a physician practiceinformation survey.

The multi-specialty survey is beingconducted by the American MedicalAssociation (AMA) and supported by

the AOA and more than 60 othermedical specialty societies. Thepurpose of the study is to collect currentinformation on physician practice char-acteristics to develop and redefine AMAand AOA policy. Data related toprofessional practice expenses also willbe collected. During the year, the AMA

AOA/AMA to Conduct Physician Practice Surveyand AOA plan to survey thousands ofphysicians from all specialties to ensureaccurate and fair representation.

The AOA encourages physicians toparticipate in the survey as the dataobtained are critical sources of infor-mation for both the AMA and AOA.

Page 22

COR

PO

RATE

SPOTLIGHT

We asked three corporate executivestwo questions regarding education.Answers to the first question appearedin the Spring 2007 issue of the AOCDNewsletter. The following is the secondquestion and their responses:

Elliott Milstein, Business Unit Director, Biopelle

Dermatology is a highly desirablespecialty for many reasons, but twostand out in particular: It is incrediblydiverse and interesting, and highlylucrative. I see dermatology educationchanging to address these issues.

Educational programs will have toaddress rapidly changing technologiesespecially in cosmetic procedures.Physicians should not receive all oftheir information and experience withfillers, IPL, lasers, RF and otheremerging technologies from medicalmeetings and sales representatives.Similarly, dermatologists are calledupon to sift through all the broad andunsubstantiated claims made by thecosmeceutical companies for theirproducts. In the absence of true clinicalstudies, doctors must develop a methodof evaluating efficacy and value fortheir patients. This skill is best learnedin an academic setting before the pres-sures of financial realities begin toaffect such decision making.

Educational programs should givesome attention to the financial aspectsof the field. Never before have doctorsbeen asked so quickly after Board certi-fication to manage a business the likesof today’s dermatology practices withits high priced equipment; extensivestaff of physician assistants, nurses,and estheticians; and complicatedinventory management, as well asmarketing programs. By their natureand inclination as scholars andhealers, doctors are particularly ill-suited for this and some assistancewould be of great value.

I see telemedicine playing a greaterrole in teaching. I am concerned,however, that the reliance on tech-nology may take away from the older,more human methods of teaching andlearning: time with patients, the parryand thrust of the Socratic method, andthe fraternization of teachers andstudents. Much is taught and much islearned in human interaction in thefield of medicine. I would hope thattechnology becomes an adjunct, not areplacement, for this interaction.

David Rustum, Senior Marketing Manager, CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals

As medical education continuesto evolve, how a medicaleducation activity is deliveredis fast becoming a criticalelement of the event itself.Newer technologies such aspodcasting, personal digitalassistants, and other interac-

tive approaches are unique methods tosupport educational needs at the pointof care. Still some physicians preferdinner meetings or symposia whileothers rely on journals or teleconfer-ences to learn about new topics. Butthere is no denying that providers arebecoming much more targeted in theirapproach to the delivery of educationwithin a specialty, and technology ischanging the landscape of physicianlearning.

Stephen W. Clark, President, Coria Laboratories

I see dermatologist education evolvinginto subspecialty training, such as geri-atric dermatology, and becomingdisease driven focusing on such topicsas atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

There also is a need to integratepeople in the community for physicianeducation as resources in institutionsare getting more and more scarce.Patient access to dermatologistscontinues to be more and more diffi-cult. Fewer dermatologists arepracticing medical or general derma-tology creating this demise in access.

Physician Education as Seen Through Corporate Eyes - Part 2

“How do you see physicianeducation, and in particulardermatologist education,evolving in the next fewyears?”

Page 22

The DermQuest Web site(www.dermquest.com) has recentlybeen updated.

It now features information on thefollowing topics:

• Diagnosis and treatment • Patient care and support• Research developments and

other news• Authoritative opinions and

commentary • Practice management • Clinical meetings worldwide

The Web site’s treatment sectionincludes articles that help dermatolo-gists keep abreast of new treatmentparadigms. Articles focus on thera-peutic strategies including initialtherapies, alternative and subsequenttherapies, and pitfalls. Clinical updateslist reviews and opinions related tocurrent areas of clinical interestincluding recent advances presented inclinical symposia and peer-reviewedjournals. Articles also address tradi-tional and cutting-edge techniquesrelated to dermatologic surgery andcosmetic dermatology.

The education section incorporates arti-cles addressing the latest ideas and

breakthroughs in dermatology.Research updates offer opinions andcommentary on the latest dermatolog-ical research written by members ofDermQuest’s editorial board. Derma-tologists can test their knowledge ofdiagnostic techniques, dermatologicalconditions, and treatment considera-tions using the diagnostic quizzes,which essentially are a collection ofmini “case studies.” An exposition isoffered at the conclusion of each quiz.Dermatologists can also take polls onissues facing the field of dermatologyand see how closely their opinionsmatch those of their peers.

The practice management section isdesigned to help dermatologists growtheir practice; improve office efficiency;and create a competent, contentedoffice staff. Articles offer opinions onwhat elements are necessary for thesuccessful operation of a dermatologypractice and the business issues thatconfront dermatologists today. Othersdiscuss how to build a practice thatallows dermatologists to focus theirtime and energy on treating patients.

To stay current on the latest researchfindings and happenings in the field ofdermatology, the Web site offers a

listing of upcoming symposia, meet-ings, and events.

The image library contains nearly25,000 high-quality images covering awide range of dermatological diseases.This library has been compiled to assistin the diagnosis of dermatologicalconditions and the production ofeducational materials.

Additionally, DermQuest offers freeaccess to full-text articles from the latestissue of the British Journal of Derma-tology to all registered users.

DermQuest.com is managed byDallas-based imc2 under an unre-stricted agreement with Galderma.Respected dermatologists from aroundthe world serve as members ofDermquest’s editorial board overseeingthe site’s content.

DermQuest: Web Resource for Dermatologists

The Journal of Resident Dermatologywill revert back to its original nameJournal of the American OsteopathicCollege of Dermatology (JAOCD).

The name was changed last year in anattempt to pull from a larger audienceof residents who would potentially sendsubmissions, says Editor Jay Gottlieb,D.O., FAOCD.

The goal is to increase the number ofarticles to enable the journal to publishquarterly, rather than three times ayear, which is how often it currentlycomes out. As a quarterly journal it canbe cited in Index Medicus, a biblio-graphic listing of references to articlesfrom biomedical journals worldwide.

Another option to grow the publicationevaluated by the Journal Committeewas to combine the JAOCD withanother journal entitled Abstracts inDermatology. After speaking with thepublisher, Committee members whomet during the Midyear Meetingagreed that this option was notfeasible, says Dr. Gottlieb.

In a related development at theMidyear Meeting, the Education Evalu-ating Committee (EEC) agreed toenforce its requirement for all residentsto submit their annual papers forconsideration for publication in a scien-tific journal, explains EEC Chair JamesBernard, D.O., FAOCD. Upon submis-sion to the EEC, the resident mustattach the receipt received from the

scientific journal showing that themanuscript was submitted to be consid-ered for publication. Enforcement ofthis requirement means that no resi-dent will be allowed to proceed to thenext year of training or take the AOBDexamination until it is fulfilled. Althoughthe EEC voted that residents were notrequired to send their manuscripts tothe JAOCD, Dr. Gottlieb is hopeful thatby enforcing this requirement that thevast majority of papers will besubmitted to the journal.

Currently, the JAOCD is sent to nearly2,000 individuals, including all DOand MD residents in dermatologyprograms across the country.

The next issue is due out this fall.

Old Name, New Submissions for JAOCD

American Osteopathic College of Dermatology1501 E. IllinoisKirksville, MO 63501

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PERMIT # 1556

ORLANDO, FL

Join us in

San Diego, California for

The American Osteopathic Association’s 112th Annual Meeting

September 30, 2007 to October 4, 2007

Welcome to San Diego, California's second largest city. Where blueskies keep watch on 70 miles of beaches and a gentle Mediterraneanclimate begs for a day of everything and nothing. Bordered by Mexico,the Pacific Ocean, the Anza-Borrego Desert and the Laguna Mountains,San Diego county's 4,200 square miles offer immense options for busi-ness and pleasure.

Relax, soak in San Diego. Let your surroundings dictate a new apprecia-tion for all the good things San Diego has to offer. From thrilling oceanadventures to chilled-out siestas under the shadow of a palm tree, yourSan Diego experience will teach you a new way of life - full of fun,relaxation and beauty.

San Diego is also home to such world-famous attractions as SeaWorld,the San Diego Zoo, the Wild Animal Park and LEGOLAND California,as well as historic cultural gems Balboa Park and Old Town.