Today's Association As the largest professional organization in Canada for dermatologists, the association exists to advance the professional interests of dermatologists as well as to present itself as the leading authority on dermatological issues in Canada. The mandate of CDA is to provide continuing medical education for its members, advance the science and art of dermatological medicine and surgery, support and advance patient care, advocate for the political and economic interests of the medical specialty, and provide public education on sun safety as well as other aspects of skin care.

Education Programs Professional Education At its four-day Annual Conference each summer, CDA offers a scientific program based on specific objectives identified by its members. To provide up-to-date information and hands on learning in a collegial atmosphere, CDA invites world-renowned keynote speakers and the subspecialty groups pediatric dermatology, contact dermatitis and dermatologic surgery. CDA's annual conferences are recognized by both the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Academy of Dermatology for CME credits. Public Education With the aide of funding from selected sunscreen manufacturers, the CDA launched its Sun Protection Education Program in 1989. This program takes a pro-active stance in educating Canadians about protecting their skin against sun damage. As part of this education program, a National Sun Awareness Week is held each spring to focus on a different age group and their activity interests. Some regional initiative funds are available to assist CDA member dermatologists in promoting this message and other sun safety messages. Various educational material such as brochures, bookmarks, videos, and work safety manuals are available free of charge for each member's private practice.

Awards The CDA is proud to recognize the achievements and contributions of its members.  Awards granted by the association are: Barney Usher Reearch Award in Dermatology Young Dermatologists' Volunteer Award President's Cup Award of Merit Award of Honour

Publications Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery (JCMS) Indexed in Medline-Index Medicus, Science Citation Index Expanded, ISI-Current Contents, and Excerpta Medica-EMBASE, the JCMS targets both the national and international dermatologic, and cutaneous biology communities. The journal contains reviews, basic and clinical science articles, editorials, book reviews, case reports/letters to the editor and grand rounds. CDA Bulletin Published three times a year, the CDA Bulletin provides members with information on the many activities being undertaken by the CDA, articles of personal and professional interest to members, political reports from regional editors, and news from regional dermatologic associations.

CDA Organization and Current Focus CDA is served by an elected board of 13 members who oversee the work of over 20 active committees to further the professional interests of dermatologists. CDA's current focus and priorities are to: Expand public and professional communication initiatives such as the sun awareness program, the website and telemedicine Continue to be an accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider under the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada's Maintenance of Certification program Set Canadian standards for sun protective clothing and expand the sun protection education program to recognize additional ultraviolet protective products Increase partnerships with the American Academy of Dermatology in public education projects Evaluate dermatologic human resources Increase representation efforts on behalf of Canadian dermatologists

Get Involved As a collective voice for all dermatologists, CDA encourages you to get involved. There are many options: Attend the annual conference Be a part of CDA's scientific sessions Serve on a committee Contribute to the JCM Be a Sun Awareness Program spokesperson Get linked to CDA's website Help identify patient support groups

Building Partnerships The CDA has collaborated with a number of organizations over the years and will continue to seek new partnership as it pursues its mission to: Promote public education on skin care and safety Further research in dermatology Create cost effectiveness of the speciality Participate in provincial economic planning to ensure patients from all provinces and territories have access to adequate dermatologic treatment Create a co-ordination/linkage with provincial dermatology and medical associations Work together with patient groups and other medical specialist associations on common causes.

02/27/2006