Evidence-based recommendations help cosmetic dermatologists develop
operations protocol to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk when reopening their practices.
The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) and American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (ASLMS) have partnered to produce, “Guidance for Cosmetic Dermatology Practices During COVID-19.” This evidence-based document uses existing literature and studies to drive reopening recommendations as governing authorities allow businesses to reopen
“While dermatology practices have always implemented safety measures to minimize infections, the evolving COVID-19 pandemic has created uncertainties and questions for cosmetic dermatologists, some of which we hope can be dispelled by this new resource,” said ASDSA Past President and Task Force Co-chair Murad Alam, MD, MBA. “Each recommendation in the guidance includes a grade of evidence and strength of recommendation based on the GRADE framework, along with explanatory text to help dermatologists make the best decision for their specific clinical circumstances.”
Task force members and authors of the guidance include:
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Shanthi Narla, MD
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Murad Alam, MD, MBA, Co-chair
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David M. Ozog, MD, Co-chair
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Vince Bertucci, MD,
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Henry Hin Lee Chan, MD, PhD, MRCP
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Mitchel Goldman, MD
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Edward Ross, MD
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David Sliney, PhD
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Marc D. Brown, MD, ASDSA President
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Thomas E. Rohrer, MD, ASLMS President
“The authors have produced recommendations and options dermatologists should consider – with literature references to support each recommendation – in regards to mask use for patients, physicians and staff; handwashing protocol; size of procedure room; air suction/HEPA filter use during procedures; germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) use; forced air-cooling during laser procedures; and additional considerations with lower levels of evidence,” said Task Force Co-chair David M. Ozog, MD. “The changing landscape will be evaluated regularly, and the task force will update the guidance as needed to ensure dermatologists can continue providing premium care in the safest environment possible.”
“Patient safety and high standards of clinical care are at the core of our Societies’ missions. Now more than ever, patients are seeking expertise in cosmetic procedures and are looking for treatment plans that cater to their unique needs,” said ASLMS President Thomas Rohrer, MD. “These safety recommendations will help ASDSA and ASLMS members meet this growing demand when they reopen their practices. This document delves into the science behind all of the recommendations being made for safe reopening.”
Visit ASLMS / ASDSA Joint Guidance for Dermatology Practices During COVID-19 to access the full guidance document.
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About ASDSA
With a membership of 6,400+ physicians, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) is a 501(c) (6) association, dedicated to education and advocacy on behalf of dermatologic surgeons and their patients. For more information, visit asds.net/ASDSA.
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About ASLMS
The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. (ASLMS) is the largest multidisciplinary professional organization dedicated to the development and application of lasers and related technology for health care applications. ASLMS promotes excellence in patient care by advancing biomedical application of lasers and other related technologies worldwide. ASLMS membership includes physicians, surgeons, nurses and allied health professionals representing multiple specialties, physicists involved in product development, biomedical engineers, biologists, industry representatives and manufacturers. For more information, visit aslms.org.