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VESAP3 on Sale, as VESAP4 Debut Date Nears
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program -- commonly known as VESAP3 -- will be discontinued on Sept. 1, 2017. As a result, the price of this valuable resource has now been greatly reduced. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1.
VESAP4 will launch in August, just in time for qualifying, certification and recertification exams.
A major new feature includes a mobile app (for Apple products only) for off-line use, syncing between the companion app and desktop version; expanded bookmarking and annotation, easier navigation and simplified tracking of CME/MOC certificates.
Costs will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available. For information, email [email protected] or call 800-258-7188.
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program -- commonly known as VESAP3 -- will be discontinued on Sept. 1, 2017. As a result, the price of this valuable resource has now been greatly reduced. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1.
VESAP4 will launch in August, just in time for qualifying, certification and recertification exams.
A major new feature includes a mobile app (for Apple products only) for off-line use, syncing between the companion app and desktop version; expanded bookmarking and annotation, easier navigation and simplified tracking of CME/MOC certificates.
Costs will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available. For information, email [email protected] or call 800-258-7188.
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program -- commonly known as VESAP3 -- will be discontinued on Sept. 1, 2017. As a result, the price of this valuable resource has now been greatly reduced. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1.
VESAP4 will launch in August, just in time for qualifying, certification and recertification exams.
A major new feature includes a mobile app (for Apple products only) for off-line use, syncing between the companion app and desktop version; expanded bookmarking and annotation, easier navigation and simplified tracking of CME/MOC certificates.
Costs will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available. For information, email [email protected] or call 800-258-7188.
Apply by Aug. 15 for Research Career Development Travel Award
Applications for the Research Career Development Travel Awards are due Aug. 15.
The award, now in its second year, is designed to support early-career vascular surgeons with an interest in basic science, translational or clinical research with both money and mentoring.
Honorees receive $1,500 in financial support to attend an established research career development course, and they also are assigned an SVS research mentor to provide guidance and discuss academic career advancement, including other available resources and opportunities.
Applicants must be either an SVS Candidate or Active member who has completed postgraduate clinical training in vascular surgery and has been in practice no more than seven years.
Applications for the Research Career Development Travel Awards are due Aug. 15.
The award, now in its second year, is designed to support early-career vascular surgeons with an interest in basic science, translational or clinical research with both money and mentoring.
Honorees receive $1,500 in financial support to attend an established research career development course, and they also are assigned an SVS research mentor to provide guidance and discuss academic career advancement, including other available resources and opportunities.
Applicants must be either an SVS Candidate or Active member who has completed postgraduate clinical training in vascular surgery and has been in practice no more than seven years.
Applications for the Research Career Development Travel Awards are due Aug. 15.
The award, now in its second year, is designed to support early-career vascular surgeons with an interest in basic science, translational or clinical research with both money and mentoring.
Honorees receive $1,500 in financial support to attend an established research career development course, and they also are assigned an SVS research mentor to provide guidance and discuss academic career advancement, including other available resources and opportunities.
Applicants must be either an SVS Candidate or Active member who has completed postgraduate clinical training in vascular surgery and has been in practice no more than seven years.
SVS Foundation Creates New Position to Support Mission Expansion
The SVS Foundation has expanded its mission to include not only support of basic and clinical science research grants but also programs that address patient education and disease prevention.
SVS has created a new staff position, SVS Foundation Development Manager, to provide support in fundraising to further the new work.
Sally Benson, a Certified Fundraising Executive, joined the SVS staff in Chicago earlier this month to take on this important job; she will handle donor relations, grants, marketing and communications, individual giving and planned giving for the SVS Foundation. She earlier worked for the American College of Surgeons and at American Health Information Management Association. She may be reached at 312-334-2339 or at [email protected].
The SVS Foundation has expanded its mission to include not only support of basic and clinical science research grants but also programs that address patient education and disease prevention.
SVS has created a new staff position, SVS Foundation Development Manager, to provide support in fundraising to further the new work.
Sally Benson, a Certified Fundraising Executive, joined the SVS staff in Chicago earlier this month to take on this important job; she will handle donor relations, grants, marketing and communications, individual giving and planned giving for the SVS Foundation. She earlier worked for the American College of Surgeons and at American Health Information Management Association. She may be reached at 312-334-2339 or at [email protected].
The SVS Foundation has expanded its mission to include not only support of basic and clinical science research grants but also programs that address patient education and disease prevention.
SVS has created a new staff position, SVS Foundation Development Manager, to provide support in fundraising to further the new work.
Sally Benson, a Certified Fundraising Executive, joined the SVS staff in Chicago earlier this month to take on this important job; she will handle donor relations, grants, marketing and communications, individual giving and planned giving for the SVS Foundation. She earlier worked for the American College of Surgeons and at American Health Information Management Association. She may be reached at 312-334-2339 or at [email protected].
New research grant will support pediatric genomics research
The AGA Research Foundation has partnered with the Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine to establish the AGA-Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine Research Scholar Award in Pediatric Genomics. This award will support one promising young investigator conducting research that utilizes genomics to enhance our fundamental understanding of childhood digestive diseases.
This newly established award will provide $90,000 per year for 3 years to one investigator. The funded research must be conducted at Rady Children’s Institute for Genomic Medicine in San Diego starting July 2018.
Stay tuned for additional details and information on how to apply for this grant in summer 2017. More information on this new award is available on the Rady Children’s Hospital website.
The AGA Research Foundation has partnered with the Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine to establish the AGA-Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine Research Scholar Award in Pediatric Genomics. This award will support one promising young investigator conducting research that utilizes genomics to enhance our fundamental understanding of childhood digestive diseases.
This newly established award will provide $90,000 per year for 3 years to one investigator. The funded research must be conducted at Rady Children’s Institute for Genomic Medicine in San Diego starting July 2018.
Stay tuned for additional details and information on how to apply for this grant in summer 2017. More information on this new award is available on the Rady Children’s Hospital website.
The AGA Research Foundation has partnered with the Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine to establish the AGA-Rady Children’s Institute of Genomic Medicine Research Scholar Award in Pediatric Genomics. This award will support one promising young investigator conducting research that utilizes genomics to enhance our fundamental understanding of childhood digestive diseases.
This newly established award will provide $90,000 per year for 3 years to one investigator. The funded research must be conducted at Rady Children’s Institute for Genomic Medicine in San Diego starting July 2018.
Stay tuned for additional details and information on how to apply for this grant in summer 2017. More information on this new award is available on the Rady Children’s Hospital website.
Become an AGA Fellow – AGA’s highest level of membership
AGA recognizes members whose accomplishments demonstrate personal commitment to the field of gastroenterology with the distinction of fellowship. AGA fellowship helps open doors, creates connections, and offers widespread value and recognition. Applicants can choose to apply for fellowship in either clinical practice (private or academic) or in research (basic or clinical).
Gain recognition as a distinguished GI professional and apply today by visiting www.gastro.org/fellowship. This website includes the full list of benefits and criteria for fellowship.
Be honored for your contributions and commitment to the GI field. The deadline for submissions is Monday, July 31, 2017.
AGA recognizes members whose accomplishments demonstrate personal commitment to the field of gastroenterology with the distinction of fellowship. AGA fellowship helps open doors, creates connections, and offers widespread value and recognition. Applicants can choose to apply for fellowship in either clinical practice (private or academic) or in research (basic or clinical).
Gain recognition as a distinguished GI professional and apply today by visiting www.gastro.org/fellowship. This website includes the full list of benefits and criteria for fellowship.
Be honored for your contributions and commitment to the GI field. The deadline for submissions is Monday, July 31, 2017.
AGA recognizes members whose accomplishments demonstrate personal commitment to the field of gastroenterology with the distinction of fellowship. AGA fellowship helps open doors, creates connections, and offers widespread value and recognition. Applicants can choose to apply for fellowship in either clinical practice (private or academic) or in research (basic or clinical).
Gain recognition as a distinguished GI professional and apply today by visiting www.gastro.org/fellowship. This website includes the full list of benefits and criteria for fellowship.
Be honored for your contributions and commitment to the GI field. The deadline for submissions is Monday, July 31, 2017.
AGA makes six recommendations to FDA on interchangeable biosimilars
Gastroenterologists and patients rely on biologics to manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Biosimilar products, which are “highly similar” to the biologic, have begun to be approved by the FDA for such indications. The FDA is now developing a pathway for interchangeable products, which are biosimilars that “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product” according to Section 351(i) of the Public Health Service Act. AGA provided the FDA six recommendations in response to the agency’s draft guidance on demonstrating interchangeability focused on measures to enhance patient safety and ensure that physicians, not insurance companies, drive decisions about switching products. Here is a summary of our comments.
1. Extrapolation of data should not be allowed for any indication where the pathophysiology is known to be different or is yet to be elucidated.
Post-marketing evidence on interchangeability of biosimilar products would alleviate concerns as testing specific products in individual diseases is an important step in determining whether the product is effective and safe for that particular disease. AGA recommends that manufacturers should be required to seek licensure for all the same indications as the reference product to appropriately track adverse events should they arise.
2. The agency should use caution when allowing extrapolation for pediatric indications.
Pediatric patients are recognized as a vulnerable population for which a disease may differ from those of adult patients. In the absence of data specifically ensuring safety and efficacy in children, AGA recommends an exemption of pediatric patients from current FDA positions and guidance documents related to interchangeable products.
3. Sponsors should exclusively use U.S.-licensed reference products in switching studies.
Currently, the FDA’s draft guidance has wording that seems to signal that the agency is willing to entertain use of non-U.S.-licensed products in some cases, casting doubt on the true “interchangeability” of the product. AGA recommends that the guidance be amended to include specific scenarios where this may be acceptable or remove the clause altogether.
4. “Real world” data on biosimilar and interchangeable products must be collected through formal post-marketing observational studies to ensure the longitudinal safety and efficacy for all patient populations being treated with these products.
A central observational registry, like the AGA Fecal Microbiome Transplant National Registry, would ensure the capture of data on the safety and efficacy of interchangeable products for all manufacturers and their adverse effects on patients, if any. Such a registry would also allow the study of outcomes in patients who are switched among multiple products.
5. Gastroenterologists with appropriate disease expertise should be engaged by the FDA when interchangeable products are reviewed for approval.
AGA is part of the FDA’s Network of Experts and hopes that this relationship will continue to be proactively utilized when a proposed product is seeking a gastrointestinal indication.
6. Prescribing physicians must be empowered with the ability to prevent nonmedical switching from a reference product to an interchangeable product.
AGA has concerns over the section of the Public Health Service Act that states that an interchangeable product “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product.” Health care providers must be empowered to be aware of and prevent nonmedical switching if they believe that the patient’s safety and health is at risk. AGA encourages the FDA to consider making a statement encouraging states to protect physician discretion as it applies to interchangeable biosimilars.
AGA will continue to work with the FDA to ensure that the voice of gastroenterology is heard in relation to biosimilars and interchangeable products.
Gastroenterologists and patients rely on biologics to manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Biosimilar products, which are “highly similar” to the biologic, have begun to be approved by the FDA for such indications. The FDA is now developing a pathway for interchangeable products, which are biosimilars that “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product” according to Section 351(i) of the Public Health Service Act. AGA provided the FDA six recommendations in response to the agency’s draft guidance on demonstrating interchangeability focused on measures to enhance patient safety and ensure that physicians, not insurance companies, drive decisions about switching products. Here is a summary of our comments.
1. Extrapolation of data should not be allowed for any indication where the pathophysiology is known to be different or is yet to be elucidated.
Post-marketing evidence on interchangeability of biosimilar products would alleviate concerns as testing specific products in individual diseases is an important step in determining whether the product is effective and safe for that particular disease. AGA recommends that manufacturers should be required to seek licensure for all the same indications as the reference product to appropriately track adverse events should they arise.
2. The agency should use caution when allowing extrapolation for pediatric indications.
Pediatric patients are recognized as a vulnerable population for which a disease may differ from those of adult patients. In the absence of data specifically ensuring safety and efficacy in children, AGA recommends an exemption of pediatric patients from current FDA positions and guidance documents related to interchangeable products.
3. Sponsors should exclusively use U.S.-licensed reference products in switching studies.
Currently, the FDA’s draft guidance has wording that seems to signal that the agency is willing to entertain use of non-U.S.-licensed products in some cases, casting doubt on the true “interchangeability” of the product. AGA recommends that the guidance be amended to include specific scenarios where this may be acceptable or remove the clause altogether.
4. “Real world” data on biosimilar and interchangeable products must be collected through formal post-marketing observational studies to ensure the longitudinal safety and efficacy for all patient populations being treated with these products.
A central observational registry, like the AGA Fecal Microbiome Transplant National Registry, would ensure the capture of data on the safety and efficacy of interchangeable products for all manufacturers and their adverse effects on patients, if any. Such a registry would also allow the study of outcomes in patients who are switched among multiple products.
5. Gastroenterologists with appropriate disease expertise should be engaged by the FDA when interchangeable products are reviewed for approval.
AGA is part of the FDA’s Network of Experts and hopes that this relationship will continue to be proactively utilized when a proposed product is seeking a gastrointestinal indication.
6. Prescribing physicians must be empowered with the ability to prevent nonmedical switching from a reference product to an interchangeable product.
AGA has concerns over the section of the Public Health Service Act that states that an interchangeable product “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product.” Health care providers must be empowered to be aware of and prevent nonmedical switching if they believe that the patient’s safety and health is at risk. AGA encourages the FDA to consider making a statement encouraging states to protect physician discretion as it applies to interchangeable biosimilars.
AGA will continue to work with the FDA to ensure that the voice of gastroenterology is heard in relation to biosimilars and interchangeable products.
Gastroenterologists and patients rely on biologics to manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Biosimilar products, which are “highly similar” to the biologic, have begun to be approved by the FDA for such indications. The FDA is now developing a pathway for interchangeable products, which are biosimilars that “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product” according to Section 351(i) of the Public Health Service Act. AGA provided the FDA six recommendations in response to the agency’s draft guidance on demonstrating interchangeability focused on measures to enhance patient safety and ensure that physicians, not insurance companies, drive decisions about switching products. Here is a summary of our comments.
1. Extrapolation of data should not be allowed for any indication where the pathophysiology is known to be different or is yet to be elucidated.
Post-marketing evidence on interchangeability of biosimilar products would alleviate concerns as testing specific products in individual diseases is an important step in determining whether the product is effective and safe for that particular disease. AGA recommends that manufacturers should be required to seek licensure for all the same indications as the reference product to appropriately track adverse events should they arise.
2. The agency should use caution when allowing extrapolation for pediatric indications.
Pediatric patients are recognized as a vulnerable population for which a disease may differ from those of adult patients. In the absence of data specifically ensuring safety and efficacy in children, AGA recommends an exemption of pediatric patients from current FDA positions and guidance documents related to interchangeable products.
3. Sponsors should exclusively use U.S.-licensed reference products in switching studies.
Currently, the FDA’s draft guidance has wording that seems to signal that the agency is willing to entertain use of non-U.S.-licensed products in some cases, casting doubt on the true “interchangeability” of the product. AGA recommends that the guidance be amended to include specific scenarios where this may be acceptable or remove the clause altogether.
4. “Real world” data on biosimilar and interchangeable products must be collected through formal post-marketing observational studies to ensure the longitudinal safety and efficacy for all patient populations being treated with these products.
A central observational registry, like the AGA Fecal Microbiome Transplant National Registry, would ensure the capture of data on the safety and efficacy of interchangeable products for all manufacturers and their adverse effects on patients, if any. Such a registry would also allow the study of outcomes in patients who are switched among multiple products.
5. Gastroenterologists with appropriate disease expertise should be engaged by the FDA when interchangeable products are reviewed for approval.
AGA is part of the FDA’s Network of Experts and hopes that this relationship will continue to be proactively utilized when a proposed product is seeking a gastrointestinal indication.
6. Prescribing physicians must be empowered with the ability to prevent nonmedical switching from a reference product to an interchangeable product.
AGA has concerns over the section of the Public Health Service Act that states that an interchangeable product “may be substituted for the reference product without the intervention of the health care provider who prescribed the reference product.” Health care providers must be empowered to be aware of and prevent nonmedical switching if they believe that the patient’s safety and health is at risk. AGA encourages the FDA to consider making a statement encouraging states to protect physician discretion as it applies to interchangeable biosimilars.
AGA will continue to work with the FDA to ensure that the voice of gastroenterology is heard in relation to biosimilars and interchangeable products.
SVS announces new leadership for 2017-18
CHICAGO, Ill., June 15, 2017 – New leaders were elected at the annual business meeting June 3 of the Society for Vascular Surgery during the organization’s annual meeting in San Diego, Calif. They are:
Dr. R. Clement Darling III, president. Dr. Darling, who served as president-elect during the past year, has been active in the leadership of the society for more than 26 years, serving on numerous SVS committees, on the board of directors and on the executive committee. Dr. Darling is president of The Vascular Group, Albany, N.Y.; director of The Institute for Vascular Health and Disease and chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery at Albany Medical Center Hospital. He also is a professor of surgery at Albany Medical College.
Dr. Michel S. Makaroun, president-elect. Dr Makaroun served as SVS vice president during the past year. He has been active in the SVS since 1997 and served as secretary from 2013-2016. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the SVS and is a professor of surgery and of clinical and translational science at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Dr. Kim J. Hodgson, vice president. Dr. Hodgson previously has served three terms as treasurer for the SVS as well as on several committees and the SVS board of directors. He was the inaugural editor of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program (VESAP) and continued in that role for two more editions. He is chair of the division of vascular surgery at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Ill., where he holds the David Sumner endowed chair in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and has served for six years on the Vascular Surgery Board.
Dr. Ronald Fairman, chair, SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman, now immediate past president of the SVS, has moved over to his new role as chair of the SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman will oversee the foundation’s competitive, peer-reviewed, grant-making initiatives, which are made possible by contributions from members, medical societies and corporations. Dr. Fairman is chief of vascular surgery and endovascular therapy at the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Medicine, in Philadelphia. He has a dual faculty appointment, as Clyde F. Barker - William Maul Measey professor of surgery and professor of radiology.
Dr. Samuel R. Money, treasurer. Dr. Money is a professor of surgery in the College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz. In addition to being a vascular surgeon, Dr. Money holds an M.B.A. He has held leadership roles in numerous professional societies.
In addition, Dr. Ali AbuRahma will continue as the Society secretary. Dr. AbuRahma is a professor of surgery, chief of vascular and endovascular surgery and director of the vascular surgery fellowship and integrated residency programs at West Virginia University, Charleston, W.Va. He also serves as the medical director of the vascular laboratory and co-director of the Vascular Center of Excellence at Charleston Area Medical Center. In addition to his role as secretary, Dr. AbuRahma has served on the SVS board of directors, the Foundation board and several other committees.
As part of the changing of the guard, the SVS Appointments Committee also has welcomed dozens of new members to the Society’s councils and committees.
CHICAGO, Ill., June 15, 2017 – New leaders were elected at the annual business meeting June 3 of the Society for Vascular Surgery during the organization’s annual meeting in San Diego, Calif. They are:
Dr. R. Clement Darling III, president. Dr. Darling, who served as president-elect during the past year, has been active in the leadership of the society for more than 26 years, serving on numerous SVS committees, on the board of directors and on the executive committee. Dr. Darling is president of The Vascular Group, Albany, N.Y.; director of The Institute for Vascular Health and Disease and chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery at Albany Medical Center Hospital. He also is a professor of surgery at Albany Medical College.
Dr. Michel S. Makaroun, president-elect. Dr Makaroun served as SVS vice president during the past year. He has been active in the SVS since 1997 and served as secretary from 2013-2016. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the SVS and is a professor of surgery and of clinical and translational science at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Dr. Kim J. Hodgson, vice president. Dr. Hodgson previously has served three terms as treasurer for the SVS as well as on several committees and the SVS board of directors. He was the inaugural editor of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program (VESAP) and continued in that role for two more editions. He is chair of the division of vascular surgery at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Ill., where he holds the David Sumner endowed chair in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and has served for six years on the Vascular Surgery Board.
Dr. Ronald Fairman, chair, SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman, now immediate past president of the SVS, has moved over to his new role as chair of the SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman will oversee the foundation’s competitive, peer-reviewed, grant-making initiatives, which are made possible by contributions from members, medical societies and corporations. Dr. Fairman is chief of vascular surgery and endovascular therapy at the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Medicine, in Philadelphia. He has a dual faculty appointment, as Clyde F. Barker - William Maul Measey professor of surgery and professor of radiology.
Dr. Samuel R. Money, treasurer. Dr. Money is a professor of surgery in the College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz. In addition to being a vascular surgeon, Dr. Money holds an M.B.A. He has held leadership roles in numerous professional societies.
In addition, Dr. Ali AbuRahma will continue as the Society secretary. Dr. AbuRahma is a professor of surgery, chief of vascular and endovascular surgery and director of the vascular surgery fellowship and integrated residency programs at West Virginia University, Charleston, W.Va. He also serves as the medical director of the vascular laboratory and co-director of the Vascular Center of Excellence at Charleston Area Medical Center. In addition to his role as secretary, Dr. AbuRahma has served on the SVS board of directors, the Foundation board and several other committees.
As part of the changing of the guard, the SVS Appointments Committee also has welcomed dozens of new members to the Society’s councils and committees.
CHICAGO, Ill., June 15, 2017 – New leaders were elected at the annual business meeting June 3 of the Society for Vascular Surgery during the organization’s annual meeting in San Diego, Calif. They are:
Dr. R. Clement Darling III, president. Dr. Darling, who served as president-elect during the past year, has been active in the leadership of the society for more than 26 years, serving on numerous SVS committees, on the board of directors and on the executive committee. Dr. Darling is president of The Vascular Group, Albany, N.Y.; director of The Institute for Vascular Health and Disease and chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery at Albany Medical Center Hospital. He also is a professor of surgery at Albany Medical College.
Dr. Michel S. Makaroun, president-elect. Dr Makaroun served as SVS vice president during the past year. He has been active in the SVS since 1997 and served as secretary from 2013-2016. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the SVS and is a professor of surgery and of clinical and translational science at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Dr. Kim J. Hodgson, vice president. Dr. Hodgson previously has served three terms as treasurer for the SVS as well as on several committees and the SVS board of directors. He was the inaugural editor of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program (VESAP) and continued in that role for two more editions. He is chair of the division of vascular surgery at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Ill., where he holds the David Sumner endowed chair in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, and has served for six years on the Vascular Surgery Board.
Dr. Ronald Fairman, chair, SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman, now immediate past president of the SVS, has moved over to his new role as chair of the SVS Foundation. Dr. Fairman will oversee the foundation’s competitive, peer-reviewed, grant-making initiatives, which are made possible by contributions from members, medical societies and corporations. Dr. Fairman is chief of vascular surgery and endovascular therapy at the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Medicine, in Philadelphia. He has a dual faculty appointment, as Clyde F. Barker - William Maul Measey professor of surgery and professor of radiology.
Dr. Samuel R. Money, treasurer. Dr. Money is a professor of surgery in the College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz. In addition to being a vascular surgeon, Dr. Money holds an M.B.A. He has held leadership roles in numerous professional societies.
In addition, Dr. Ali AbuRahma will continue as the Society secretary. Dr. AbuRahma is a professor of surgery, chief of vascular and endovascular surgery and director of the vascular surgery fellowship and integrated residency programs at West Virginia University, Charleston, W.Va. He also serves as the medical director of the vascular laboratory and co-director of the Vascular Center of Excellence at Charleston Area Medical Center. In addition to his role as secretary, Dr. AbuRahma has served on the SVS board of directors, the Foundation board and several other committees.
As part of the changing of the guard, the SVS Appointments Committee also has welcomed dozens of new members to the Society’s councils and committees.
VESAP3 Discounted as of July 1
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program – commonly known as VESAP3 – will be discontinued on Sept. 1.
Starting July 1, this resource is available for half-price. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1. Costs for the comprehensive package are: $200 for candidates, $250 for members and $300 for non-members. Cost per module is $27 for candidates, $32 for members and $37 for non-members.
VESAP4, with expanded and updated content, a simplified, user-friendly navigation system AND a mobile app (Apple products only) will launch in August. Cost will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available.
For more information, email [email protected].
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program – commonly known as VESAP3 – will be discontinued on Sept. 1.
Starting July 1, this resource is available for half-price. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1. Costs for the comprehensive package are: $200 for candidates, $250 for members and $300 for non-members. Cost per module is $27 for candidates, $32 for members and $37 for non-members.
VESAP4, with expanded and updated content, a simplified, user-friendly navigation system AND a mobile app (Apple products only) will launch in August. Cost will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available.
For more information, email [email protected].
The third version of the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program – commonly known as VESAP3 – will be discontinued on Sept. 1.
Starting July 1, this resource is available for half-price. Sales of VESAP3 will end Aug. 1, with access continued until Sept. 1. Costs for the comprehensive package are: $200 for candidates, $250 for members and $300 for non-members. Cost per module is $27 for candidates, $32 for members and $37 for non-members.
VESAP4, with expanded and updated content, a simplified, user-friendly navigation system AND a mobile app (Apple products only) will launch in August. Cost will be $450 for candidates, $550 for members and $650 for non-members. A total of 75 CME (7.5 for each of the 10 sections) will be available.
For more information, email [email protected].
Coding Course is Oct. 13-14 in Chicago
Learn what you need to know about coding changes at the 2017 Coding and Reimbursement Workshop for vascular surgeons, set for Oct. 13-14 at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago.
Cost is $880 for an SVS member or the staff of SVS members; $955 for non-members and $250 for residents and trainees.
The intensive two-day program is designed to address 2017 updates, including changes to endovascular stent placement outside the lower extremity and PQRS as well as coding for intravascular embolization and retrograde intrathoracic carotid stenting. Additionally, the course will review the proposed updates for 2017 with a focus on reporting standards for interventional and open surgical procedures.
An optional workshop on Evaluation and Management (E&M) coding will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 13. Cost is $100 for SVS members and staff, $125 for non-members and $50 for residents and trainees. Register and learn more at the link above.
Learn what you need to know about coding changes at the 2017 Coding and Reimbursement Workshop for vascular surgeons, set for Oct. 13-14 at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago.
Cost is $880 for an SVS member or the staff of SVS members; $955 for non-members and $250 for residents and trainees.
The intensive two-day program is designed to address 2017 updates, including changes to endovascular stent placement outside the lower extremity and PQRS as well as coding for intravascular embolization and retrograde intrathoracic carotid stenting. Additionally, the course will review the proposed updates for 2017 with a focus on reporting standards for interventional and open surgical procedures.
An optional workshop on Evaluation and Management (E&M) coding will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 13. Cost is $100 for SVS members and staff, $125 for non-members and $50 for residents and trainees. Register and learn more at the link above.
Learn what you need to know about coding changes at the 2017 Coding and Reimbursement Workshop for vascular surgeons, set for Oct. 13-14 at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago.
Cost is $880 for an SVS member or the staff of SVS members; $955 for non-members and $250 for residents and trainees.
The intensive two-day program is designed to address 2017 updates, including changes to endovascular stent placement outside the lower extremity and PQRS as well as coding for intravascular embolization and retrograde intrathoracic carotid stenting. Additionally, the course will review the proposed updates for 2017 with a focus on reporting standards for interventional and open surgical procedures.
An optional workshop on Evaluation and Management (E&M) coding will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 13. Cost is $100 for SVS members and staff, $125 for non-members and $50 for residents and trainees. Register and learn more at the link above.
ACS Committee on Diversity Issues seeks two new members
The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Diversity Issues (CODI) is seeking candidates to fill two vacancies on the committee beginning in October 2017.
The mission of the Committee on Diversity Issues is to study the educational and professional needs of underrepresented surgeons and surgical trainees and the impact that its work may have on the elimination of health care disparities among diverse population groups.
Surgeons interested in developing initiatives to expand diversity within the ACS membership and leadership and to developing resources and programming for surgeons related to diversity and cultural competency should apply. Nominations are open to all, and the committee encourages representation by individuals of diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Be an active Fellow of the ACS
- Be able to serve an initial three-year term: 2017–2020
- Attend one in-person meeting at the annual ACS Clinical Congress
- Participate in quarterly conference calls
- Contribute to committee initiatives
To apply, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/CmteDiversityApp to access the application and submit by June 30.
Applicants will need to do the following:
- Upload a summary of your curriculum vitae (five pages or less)
- Upload a letter of interest highlighting your skills and expertise, along with contributions you would like to make to the committee
Eligible candidates will be selected and notified by the committee in July and will be invited to attend the October 23 meeting of the Committee on Diversity Issues as guests. This meeting is held in conjunction with the 2017 Clinical Congress in San Diego. Travel reimbursement will not be provided.
Direct questions to [email protected].
The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Diversity Issues (CODI) is seeking candidates to fill two vacancies on the committee beginning in October 2017.
The mission of the Committee on Diversity Issues is to study the educational and professional needs of underrepresented surgeons and surgical trainees and the impact that its work may have on the elimination of health care disparities among diverse population groups.
Surgeons interested in developing initiatives to expand diversity within the ACS membership and leadership and to developing resources and programming for surgeons related to diversity and cultural competency should apply. Nominations are open to all, and the committee encourages representation by individuals of diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Be an active Fellow of the ACS
- Be able to serve an initial three-year term: 2017–2020
- Attend one in-person meeting at the annual ACS Clinical Congress
- Participate in quarterly conference calls
- Contribute to committee initiatives
To apply, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/CmteDiversityApp to access the application and submit by June 30.
Applicants will need to do the following:
- Upload a summary of your curriculum vitae (five pages or less)
- Upload a letter of interest highlighting your skills and expertise, along with contributions you would like to make to the committee
Eligible candidates will be selected and notified by the committee in July and will be invited to attend the October 23 meeting of the Committee on Diversity Issues as guests. This meeting is held in conjunction with the 2017 Clinical Congress in San Diego. Travel reimbursement will not be provided.
Direct questions to [email protected].
The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Diversity Issues (CODI) is seeking candidates to fill two vacancies on the committee beginning in October 2017.
The mission of the Committee on Diversity Issues is to study the educational and professional needs of underrepresented surgeons and surgical trainees and the impact that its work may have on the elimination of health care disparities among diverse population groups.
Surgeons interested in developing initiatives to expand diversity within the ACS membership and leadership and to developing resources and programming for surgeons related to diversity and cultural competency should apply. Nominations are open to all, and the committee encourages representation by individuals of diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Be an active Fellow of the ACS
- Be able to serve an initial three-year term: 2017–2020
- Attend one in-person meeting at the annual ACS Clinical Congress
- Participate in quarterly conference calls
- Contribute to committee initiatives
To apply, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/CmteDiversityApp to access the application and submit by June 30.
Applicants will need to do the following:
- Upload a summary of your curriculum vitae (five pages or less)
- Upload a letter of interest highlighting your skills and expertise, along with contributions you would like to make to the committee
Eligible candidates will be selected and notified by the committee in July and will be invited to attend the October 23 meeting of the Committee on Diversity Issues as guests. This meeting is held in conjunction with the 2017 Clinical Congress in San Diego. Travel reimbursement will not be provided.
Direct questions to [email protected].