Virginia Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day
May 6, 2026
Virtual Conference
Join the VDS for a virtual Virginia Advocacy DayThe purpose of Dermatology Trainee Advocacy day is to raise awareness about ways to get involved within the advocacy sphere, specifically as it relates to improving patient access to care and diversity within the specialty. Physicians and Trainees will be educated on the legislative process and ways to get involved at all levels from local, state, to federal advocacy.
Interested In learning more about our purpose?Use the link below to access the 2023 VADTAD Proclamation
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
The Virginia Dermatology Society is a community of dermatologists united in promoting leadership, education, advocacy, and professionalism in order to deliver the highest standard of patient care.We strive to provide opportunities for professional networking, building local peer relationships, advocacy and a voice on local legislative issues, educational and community service opportunities, as well as leadership development. Residents and students have the opportunity to interact with trainees and attendings from other Academic programs and meet community dermatologists from across the Commonwealth.
PRW Laboratories is Central Virginia’s premier, full-service, academic/private hybrid, dermatopathology laboratory, now partnering with Versant Diagnostics, a national leader in the evolution of virtual microscopy. Since 2011, PRW has consistently delivered unparalleled diagnostic excellence to regional dermatologists via its team of board-certified dermatopathologists, has provided national second opinion consultative services, and has contributed to the education of dozens of Virginia dermatology residents.
The L'Oreal Dermatological Beauty Division is the world leader in dermocosmetics, with international skincare brands, including CeraVe and La Roche-Posay. Our brand portfolio offers a range of skincare products focused on supporting skin health.
Breakthrough treatments that will shape the future of health care will only have impact if people can get them. We advocate for patients every step of the way, expanding access to our medicines and developing tools and programs so patients can receive optimal care.Patients will always inform and inspire our science-based innovations, which continue to change and save lives. Applying rigorous science with compassion, we will continue to confidently address the most complex healthcare challenges of our time and unlock the potential medicines and technologies of tomorrow.
We are a French dermatological laboratory whose approach to skincare is rooted in the ecobiology principle, which means our products are designed to support the skin’s natural functions and maintain a healthy balance. BIODERMA draws on all the types of skin sensitivity and its continuous interactions, and to provide a response that is tailored to each skin dysfunction. We are constantly looking to innovate to offer effective dermatological solutions that truly respect the skin and that are easy to use daily. It is with this approach in mind that we invented Micellar technology in 1995. Our iconic Sensibio H2O, the 1st micellar water ever created, revolutionized the skincare industry, and changed the routine of millions of women all around the world resulting today in one bottle sold every second!
VADTAD 2023 Proclamation
Meet the Team
Darya Mirebrahimi, BS (she/her)
VADTAD Co-Chair
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Darya Mirebrahimi is a fourth-year medical student at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine (VCUSOM) in Richmond, VA. She wants advocacy to be at the forefront of her medical career because she wants to increase healthcare accessibility and education to people from all walks of life. She honors the privilege to be able to work with vulnerable populations as a future physician and aims to create a safe and comfortable space for all patients. In addition to VADTAD, Darya was the Vice President of Internal Affairs at her American Medical Association (AMA) / Medical Society of Virginia (MSV) school chapter and Programming Chair on the AMA-MSS Women in Medicine Standing Committee. She is also co-founder of Skin You’re In, an organization dedicated to creating dermatology education sessions for the Girl Scouts of Virginia, and is the Virginia Dermatology Society Student Board Member. In her free time, Darya enjoys traveling, dancing, singing, and playing songs on the guitar.
Iain Encarnacion, MS (he/him)
VADTAD Co-Chair
Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University
Iain Encarnacion is a fourth-year medical student at EVMS whose work is grounded in advocacy and health equity. He is especially passionate about delivering excellent dermatologic care that is culturally responsive and empowering for patients from historically marginalized communities. He has held national leadership roles with the Asian and Pacific American Medical Student Association and the American Medical Association LGBTQ Standing Committee, focusing on the health needs of Asian American and LGBTQ+ populations. He currently serves on the Student Advisory Board for VisualDx. Iain also completed a year-long Skin of Color Dermatology Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania, where he conducted clinical and health-equity focused research on disorders that disproportionately affect patients with skin of color and established community outreach initiatives aimed at providing atopic dermatitis education to communities of color in Philadelphia. Outside of work, Iain enjoys cooking, golfing, and watching Broadway shows.
Kayla Tran, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Co-Chair
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Kayla Tran is a fourth-year medical student at VCU School of Medicine and is currently completing a research year with the VCU Department of Dermatology. Her interests focus on expanding dermatologic access through volunteer efforts such as Spa Days for mothers in recovery from substance abuse, leading dermatology education sessions for community Girl Scouts with Darya, organizing care packages for the unhoused population, and co-leading the CrossOver Derm Free Clinic in Richmond. Through her work, her passion for advocacy aims towards learning how to amplify the voices of those who have gone unheard and unseen. She has served as President of the Students Fighting Human Trafficking SIG since her first year of medical school, implementing human trafficking lectures into the longitudinal curriculum, collaborating on a quality improvement project to improve services and outcomes at a mother-child recovery home, and is helping to create a student-run HT clinic. She has previously served as president of the VCU Dermatology SIG. She was Fundraising co-chair for three years before transitioning into her current role for VADTAD. In her free time, she loves reading, baking sweet goodies for her friends, and exploring yummy food near and far.
Margaret “Meg” Mercante, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Lead
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Meg Mercante is a third-year medical student at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. She earned her BA from Vanderbilt University in Medicine, Health, and Society with a minor in Art History. At UVA, she serves as Treasurer of the Dermatology Interest Group and is actively involved in community outreach, including roles with the Sun Bus dermatology mobile clinic, Sun Protection Outreach Teaching by Students (SPOTS), the Virginia Wellness Initiative, and the Homeless Consult Service. She is also Vice President of the Association of Women’s Surgeons at UVA. Meg is involved in dermatology research focused on skin cancer and other dermatologic conditions and is passionate about global health and community advocacy. She is excited to continue her third year with the Virginia Dermatology Advocacy Trainee Day as a Topic Lead and to learn from leaders in the field of dermatology.
Alayne Hawthorne, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Lead
Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Alayne Hawthorne is a third-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She earned her Bachelor’s in Biology and Sociology and Chemistry Minor from the University of Virginia, as well as completed a post-baccalaureate program in Pre-Health Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania. Alayne is very interested in providing education about dermatological topics to the community, as well as increasing access to dermatologic services for the general population, especially the underserved patients. Her interest in advocacy comes from understanding that there are differences in health equity that affect the quality of care of many patients within the community. Unfortunately, some of these changes are harder to change at the smaller level in the office, and require adjustments at the government/institutional level. At EVMS, She is a member of the Dermatology Interest Group as well as the Student National Medical Association, where she previously held leadership positions working with attendings and residents on bringing educational materials to medical students actively pursuing a career in dermatology. As a future physician and Hampton Roads native, she plans to open a private practice within the Hampton Roads area in order to give back to the population who helped her achieve success in this field. Outside of medicine, Alayne enjoys dancing, trying new exercises, eating at different restaurants, and spending time with friends and family.
Bhoomi Shah, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Lead
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Bhoomi Shah is a second-year medical student at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. She graduated from the University of Louisville with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Public Health. Her interest in advocacy and health equity is shaped by both personal experiences with healthcare access and hands-on work with underserved communities. At UVA, she serves as President of the American Medical Association chapter and is actively involved with iSERVE, UVA’s free clinic, where she works directly with patients navigating barriers to care. She is particularly interested in dermatology, with a focus on improving access to dermatologic care and education, as well as the mental health impact of chronic skin disease. Outside of school, Bhoomi enjoys reading, cooking, and working out.
Stephanie Lee, MS (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Lead
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM)
Stephanie Lee is a first-year medical student at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from New York University, with minors in Chemistry and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies, and subsequently completed a Master of Science at Boston University. She is deeply interested in clinical research and advocacy aimed at improving access to care for underserved populations in both urban and rural settings. She has participated in clinical research focused on bridging gaps in primary care access for underserved communities in New York City and hopes to continue this work through VADTAD. At LUCOM, Stephanie serves as the Public Relations Officer for the Anesthesiology Interest Group and is an active member of the Dermatology Interest Group. Her dermatologic interests include inflammatory skin conditions, use of procedural dermatology for pain-related conditions, and addressing disparities in skin health through teledermatology and community-based care models. Her broader research background includes work in hearing health and cochlear implant outcomes at NYU Langone Health and Cornell Weill as well as research in head and neck radiation oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, which has further shaped her interest in multidisciplinary, patient-centered care for medically underserved populations. Outside of medicine, Stephanie enjoys Pilates, photography, and exploring new restaurants.
Dema Abul-Enin, BA, BS (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Leader
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Dema Abul-Enin is a second-year medical student at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from The Ohio State University. Her interests include dermatology, health equity, and advocacy to improve access to care for disparaged and diverse populations. At UVA, she serves as Co-Founder and Vice President of MENAmed and as Fundraising Chair for the Class of 2028. Through her involvement with the Latino Health Initiative and Discover Medicine, she works to expand health education and mentorship in the community. As a Certified Medical Interpreter in Spanish, she is passionate about advancing culturally competent, equitable care. Outside of medicine, Dema is an avid reader, loves taking care of her cats, and enjoys learning about linguistics.
Isabelle Tchoungang, BS MLS (she/her)
VADTAD Topic Lead
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Isabelle Tchoungang is a first year medical student at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She earned her Bachelors of Science Degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences at Texas Tech University, and subsequently worked as a Medical Lab Scientist at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas TX. She equally founded a nonprofit organization called Operation Maveun aimed at educating young women on women’s health in underdeveloped countries. She has a strong interest in dermatology, with particular focus on skin of color, health disparities, and equitable access to dermatologic care. At LUCOM, she is an active member of the Dermatology Interest Group, Student National Medical Association, and National Osteopathic Women Physicians Association. In her free time, Isabelle loves to sleep, sing, workout, and try new restaurants and foods.
Nivitha Periyapatna, MPH (she/her)
VADTAD Marketing and Recruitment
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Nivitha Periyapatna is a second year medical student at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She studied biology and public health at the University of Pittsburgh, where she found an interest in health policy. As a member of VADTAD, she hopes to encourage more medical students and healthcare professionals to get involved in health policy and advocacy. Through her time in VADTAD and throughout her future career, Nivitha hopes to work to increase accessibility to healthcare. In addition to VADTAD, Nivitha serves on the AMA-MSS Committee of Gender and Sexual Health, and leads the Premed Mentorship Program at her school. When she is not studying, Nivitha enjoys pageantry, fashion, and travel.
Yagmur Bingul, BS (she/her)
VADTAD Marketing and Recruitment
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Yagmur Bingul is a second-year MD/PhD candidate at VCU School of Medicine. She was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. She graduated with honors from the University of Richmond in 2024, earning a BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, along with minors in Integrated Sciences and Health Sciences. At VCU, she is a member of the Dermatology Student Interest Group and serves as Vice President of Internal Affairs for the Medical Society of Virginia/American Medical Association (MSV/AMA). She also volunteers at the VCU Dermatology Free Clinic and the Refugee Clinics in her free time. She is conducting research with the Heme/Onc Department at VCU School of Medicine, focusing on bioinformatics, computational biology for skin cancer. Passionate about healthcare accessibility and physician advocacy, Yagmur is excited to be returning for her second year with VADTAD, where she serves in Marketing and Recruitment. Outside of academics and research, she enjoys baking, Pilates, and fashion.
Renee Brown, MS (she/her)
VADTAD Co-Fundraising Chair
Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Renee Brown is a second-year medical student at EVMS. Prior to medical school, she attended the University of Rochester, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health and developed a passion for health advocacy for underserved communities and health policy. At EVMS, she serves as Co-President of the Dermatology Interest Group and as Co-Lead Food Insecurity Clinic Coordinator at HOPES Free Clinic, where she works to provide uninsured and underinsured patients with access to food, transportation, and other essential resources. She also serves as an educator for Teen Health 360, a curriculum designed to provide middle and high school students with sexual education, relationship-building skills, and reproductive anatomy knowledge, as well as Good Skin Knowledge, a program designed to teach middle and high school students about common skin, hair, and nail conditions. She is particularly interested in pediatric dermatology, skin of color, mental health within dermatology, and inflammatory dermatologic diseases. Outside of school, Renee enjoys Pilates, cooking, baking, chess, pickleball, and psychological thrillers.
Stefany Orellana, MS/MBA (she/her)
VADTAD Co-Fundraising Chair
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stefany Orellana is a first-year medical student at LUCOM. She graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor’s in Cell and Molecular Biology with minors in Psychology and Global Studies. Following her undergraduate training, she completed an MBA at Liberty University and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. Prior to medical school, she worked as a dermatology medical assistant and clinical research assistant in Rosslyn, VA, where she gained first-hand experience in medical and cosmetic dermatology. She is also an active volunteer at the Arlington Free Clinic, supporting underserved populations through bilingual patient intake and care coordination. At LUCOM, she is a member of the Dermatology Interest Group and is passionate about service, leadership, and advancing equitable healthcare. In her free time, she loves taking walks with her dog, reading, and painting.
Naomi Matsuno, BS (she/her)
VADTAD Legislative Lead
Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Naomi Matsuno is a second year medical student at EVMS. She was born and raised on Guam. She attended George Washington University in Washington, DC and graduated in 2022 with a major in Cellular/Molecular Biological Sciences and a minor in teaching. After graduating in 2022, she returned to Guam and worked as lead medical assistant at a dermatology clinic for two years. At this time, her passion is to become a physician and return to practice not only on Guam, but on the other Mariana islands as well. She also has a profound passion for dermatological education and awareness which she expresses through her work through the AAD initiative, Good Skin Knowledge. In her free time, she enjoys calisthenics, playing volleyball, rock climbing, cooking and baking, and spending time with her boyfriend and two dogs- Maui and Kuma. Naomi is passionate about advocating for medically underserved areas lacking essential medical resources. She is excited to be rejoining VADTAD this year.
Isabelle DiGiulio, BS
VADTAD Legislative Lead
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Isabelle DiGiulio is a first-year medical student at LUCOM with a strong interest in dermatology and an active member of her school’s Dermatology Interest Group Association (DIGA). During her time at the University of Florida, she served as President of GEMS (Girls Empowered by Mathematics and Science), leading STEM outreach presentations for elementary school girls, and worked as a mobile optometric assistant, gaining clinical experience throughout 40+ nursing homes in South Florida. She also conducted research in the University of Florida College of Medicine Department of Physiology and Aging, investigating 6PPD, an environmentally derived toxic pollutant, and its impacts on human and environmental health—an experience that strengthened her commitment to dermatology advocacy through prevention, education, and equitable care. Through shadowing dermatologists, Isabelle became especially drawn to the specialty’s blend of diagnostic problem-solving and procedural care. In her free time, she loves to watch TV shows, try new recipes, bake, travel, and snorkel.
Vipusha Chandrapu, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Logistics Coordinator
Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Vipusha Chandrapu is a first-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS). She graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor of Arts in Health Studies and a minor in Biology, where she discovered a passion for health advocacy and health policy. Vipusha is especially interested in increasing access to care for historically marginalized communities and expanding dermatologic education for patients with skin of color. She is also deeply interested in the intersection of mental health and dermatology, recognizing the significant impact skin conditions can have on psychological well-being and overall quality of life. In medical school, she is a member of the Dermatology Interest Group and holds leadership positions in the Psychiatry Interest Group and the Mental Health Free Clinic. As a future physician, she hopes to center advocacy, equity, and holistic care in her clinical practice. Outside of school, Vipusha enjoys traveling, cooking, and exploring art.
Ahana Sinharoy, BA (she/her)
VADTAD Logistics Coordinator
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Ahana Sinharoy is a first-year medical student at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Prior to medical school, she graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Statistics and Global Public Health. She is passionate about using data to reveal patterns in populations and translate research into actionable, patient-centered public health interventions. In addition to VADTAD, Ahana serves as the Preclerkship Group for Research in Medical Education (GRIME) Representative at UVA, where she safeguards the interests of medical students in research projects that involve them. She is also involved with community-facing roles as part of iSERVE, UVA’s free clinic. These experiences have shaped her commitment to addressing disparities in care delivery, especially as they relate to access and outcomes in dermatologic disease. In her free time, Ahana enjoys traveling, reading, and is a Netflix enthusiast.
THE ISSUES
ISSUE I
Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This bill allows for Medicare coverage and payment for multi-cancer early detection screening tests that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and that are used to screen for cancer across many cancer types, including melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).Status: IntroducedSponsor: Sen. Crapo, Mike (R-ID)Cosponsors: 64 co-sponsors from states across the U.S.
ISSUE II
Public Health Funding Restoration Bill
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This bill aims to fully fund the Prevention and Public Health Fund and reaffirm the importance of preventive healthcare in the United States Healthcare System. The Prevention and Public Health Fund is designed to improve health and reduce the growth of public healthcare costs by funding prevention and control of the spread of infectious disease and prevent injuries and the development of chronic conditions. Investments in prevention reduce the cost of health care in the United States. $2,900,000,000 in investments in community-based disease prevention is estimated to save $16,500,000,000 annually within 5 years.Status: IntroducedSponsor: Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA-7)Cosponsors: 32 co-sponsors from states across the U.S.
ISSUE III
Price Transparency in Dermatological Product and Pharmaceutical Direct-to-Consumer Advertisements
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This bill will require that each DTC advertisement promoting a prescription drug or biologic that is covered under titles XVIII (Medicare) and/or XIX (Medicaid) to include information pertinent to the drug's/biologic's side effects, contraindications, side effects, and price disclosure. This bill demands that DTC advertisements clearly disclose the pricing of a wholesale acquisition cost of a 30 day supply of the promoted drug/biologic. This bill also requires that DTC advertisements be transparent that the price a consumer pays may be different from the wholesale price depending on the consumer's insurance plan. DTC advertisements that promote a drug for which the wholesale acquisition cost of a 30 day supply of it amounts to less than $35 are exempted would be exempt from this bill.Status: IntroducedSponsor: Sen. Durbin, Richard J. (D-IL)Cosponsors: Sen. Grassley, Charles “Chuck” (R-IA), Sen. Smith, Tina (D-MN), Sen. Welch, Peter (D-VT), Sen. Baldwin, Tammy (D-WI), Sen. Blumenthal, Richard (D-CT), Sen. Ernst, Joni (R-IA), Sen. King, Angus (I-ME), Sen. Tuberville, Tommy (R-AL), Sen. Hyde-Smith, Cindy (R-MS)
ISSUE IV
Fire Ready Nation Act of 2025
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: With wildfires becoming more frequent and severe, the implications of climate instability have been more apparent. There has been public discourse regarding a need for a coordinated government effort to prevent or mitigate the detrimental consequences of these fires and other environmental disasters.Status: IntroducedSponsor: Sen. Cantwell, Maria (D-WA)Cosponsors: Sen. Sheehy, Tim (R-MT), Sen. Cruz, Ted (R-TX), Sen. Lujan, Ben Ray (D-NM), Sen. Sullivan, Dan (R-AK), Sen. Rosen, Jacky (D-NV), Sen. Murkowski, Lisa (R-AK), Sen. Padilla, Alex (D-CA), Sen. Schatz, Brian (D-HI)
ISSUE V
Virginia House Bill 1618
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: The growing conversation around microplastics is driven by increasing evidence of their widespread presence in both drinking water and natural water sources. This heightened awareness is further fueled by studies linking microplastics to a range of adverse health outcomes. Due to increased concern about microplastics polluting public water supply, this Virginia bill was drafted. This bill is sponsored by Delegate. Nadarius Clark [D-VA].Status: IntroducedSponsor: Del. Clark, Nadarius E. (D-VA)
Agenda
2025
Introduction to advocacy
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
8:00 AM - 8:05 AM
Welcome
8:05 AM - 8:20 AM
Introduction to AdvocacyMerrick Kozak, MD, FAAD
President, Virginia Dermatology Society
8:20 AM - 8:35 AM
Importance and Foundations of Advocacy
Iain Encarnacion, MS
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Medical Student, Class of 2025
VADTAD Co-ChairElle Rosenbaum, BS
Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical Student, Class of 2025
VADTAD Co-Chair
8:35 AM - 8:45 AM
The Impact of Advocacy
Sanjoli Agarwal, DO, MPH
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Virginia Campus
Medical Student, Class of 2025
VADTAD Co-Chair
Advocacy as a tool for skin cancer prevention
8:45 AM - 9:30 AM
8:45 AM - 8:50 AM
Introduction to Advocacy for Skin Cancer Prevention
Meg Mercante, BA
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Medical Student, Class of 2027
8:50 AM - 9:10 AM
Principles of Advocacy and Strategies: Skin Cancer Prevention and Patient Safety
Dr. Bruce Brod, MD
Associate Dean of Continuing Medical Education and Interprofessional Collaboration (Interim) University of Pennsylvania Health System
Co-Director, Occupational and Contact Dermatitis Program
Clinical Professor of Dermatology
Penn Medicine
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
9:10 AM - 9:30 AM
Melanoma Outcome Disparities Related to Demographics
Dr. Naiara Barbosa, MD
Dermatologist, Department of Dermatology
Department of Diversity and Quality Leader
Mayo Clinic
Jacksonville, FL
Price Transparency in Dermatological Product and Pharmaceutical
Direct-to-Consumer Advertisements
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
9:30 AM - 9:35 AM
Introduction to Price Disclosure in Dermatological Advertising
Naomi Matsuna, BS
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Medical Student, Class of 2028Isha Seelam, BS
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Virginia Campus
Medical Student, Class of 2027
9:30 AM - 9:55 AM
The Truth Behind Drug Pricing and Insurance
Dr. Kristi Hawley, DO, FAAD
Owner and Dermatologist of The Derm Institute of West Michigan
Associate Clinical Professor, Michigan State University College of Medicine
Caledonia, MI
9:55 AM - 10:15 AM
Pharma Research Funding vs Advertising and Pricing Laws in Other Countries
Dr. Steve Daveluy, MD, FAAD
Program Director and Associate Professor
Department of Dermatology
Wayne State University
Dearborn, MI
Dermatologic Challenges within a Climate and Environmental Protection
Crisis
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
10:15 AM - 10:20 AM
Introduction to Dermatologic Challenges within a Climate and Environmental Crisis
Darya Mirebrahimi, BS
Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical Student, Class of 2026
10:20 AM - 10:45 AM
Climates, Microclimates, and Dermatologic Care: Evidence In Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Dr. Alexandra Charrow, MD, FAAD
Assistant Professor
Department of Dermatology
Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Boston, MA
10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Climate Change: How-To Advocate
Darya Mirebrahimi, BS
Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical Student, Class of 2026
break
11:00 AM - 11:10 AM
Legislative Meeting Preparation
11:10 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:30 AM
Legislative Meeting Preparation
Alexis Swift, BS
Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical Student, Class of 2026
legislative meetings
11:30 AM - 12:25 PM
11:30 AM - 11:45 AM
Davis Michols, Legislative Director for Congressman Griffith, R-VA 9
(Facilitator: Sanjoli Agarwal, VCOM-VA)Lauren Jones, Legislative Correspondent for Congressman Scott, D-VA 3
(Facilitator: Naomi Matsuno, EVMS)
11:50 AM - 12:05 PM
Zoey Keeley, Legislative Correspondent for
Senator Warner, D-VA
(Facilitator: Sanjoli Agarwal, VCOM-VA)Siobhan (Shih-vawn) Murray, Legislative
Correspondent for Senator Kaine, D-VA
(Facilitator: Elle Rosenbaum, VCUSOM)Erica Eisenman, Legislative Fellow for Congresswoman
McClellan, D-VA 4
(Facilitator: Alexis Swift, VCUSOM)
12:10 PM - 12:25 PM
Delegate Betsy Carr, D-VA District 78,
accompanied by Luke Sweeney, Legislative Aide
(Facilitator: Alexis Swift, VCUSOM)Delegate Bonita Anthony, D-VA District 92,
accompanied by Erica Callicut, Chief of Staff
(Facilitator: Naomi Matsuno, EVMS)
Closing Remarks
12:25 PM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Sponsor Lunch and Learn
Johnson & Johnson
Optional (Prior Registration Encouraged)
Contact
Do you have questions for us or our speakers? Suggestions for improvement? Let us know! We greatly appreciate your feedback.
Our History
Understand issues from our previous conferences
Use the links below to find out more about our most recent involvement in advocacy for Virginia dermatology
Interested in learning more about our purpose?
Use the link below to access the 2023 Proclamation
Registration Link
Use the above link to register for the 2026 Virginia Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day Conference. We hope to see you there!
Find your district
Use the above link to determine your congressional district!
Meet Our Speakers
Dr. Merrick Kozak
Merrick Kozak MD, FAAD
President, Virginia Dermatology Society
Dr. Bruce Brod
Dr. Bruce Brod, MD
Associate Dean of Continuing Medical Education and Interprofessional Collaboration (Interim) University of Pennsylvania Health System
Co-Director, Occupational and Contact Dermatitis Program
Clinical Professor of Dermatology
Penn Medicine
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Experienced Clinical Professor with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. Unique expertise in continuing education for health care professionals as the Lead CME Peer Reviewer for the Health System. Skilled in Allergic Contact Dermatitis and General Medical, Surgical, and Aesthetic Dermatology. Strong education professional with a Master of Health Care Innovation focused in Health Care Operations, Policy, Ethics, Problem Solving from University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
Dr. Naiara Barbosa
Dr. Naiara Barbosa, MD
Dermatologist, Department of Dermatology
Department of Diversity and Quality Leader
Mayo Clinic
Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Naiara S. Barbosa is board-certified in Dermatology and Mohs surgery by the American Board of Dermatology. Dr. Barbosa joined the Department of Dermatology at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida where she currently serves as the Department Diversity and Quality Leader, and Medical School Resident Advisor. Her clinical areas of expertise include diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, procedural dermatology, and skin surveillance in immunosuppressed patients.Dr. Barbosa’s academic interests include non-melanoma skin cancer research, skin cancer care and access for underserved populations, and diversity and inclusion advocacy. She is an active member of multiple dermatology societies and volunteers as a mentor for underrepresented minority students nationwide.
Dr. Kristi Hawley
Dr. Kristi Hawley, DO, FAAD
Owner and Dermatologist of The Derm Institute of West Michigan
Associate Clinical Professor, Michigan State University College of Medicine
Caledonia, MI
Dr. Kristi Hawley is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and a dedicated advocate for advancing dermatological care. She is the proud owner of The Derm Institute of West Michigan, where she leads her private practice with a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and innovative treatments.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Hawley serves as a principal investigator for clinical trials, contributing to groundbreaking research that shapes the future of dermatology. Her passion for education and mentorship is exemplified through her role as an associate clinical professor at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSU-COM), where she inspires and trains the next generation of medical professionals.
Dr. Hawley is also an influential voice in the medical community. She holds a seat on the Michigan State Medical Society's Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy platform, where she works to promote policies that enhance patient care and support healthcare providers. Moreover, she is deeply involved in advocacy efforts with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), championing initiatives to improve access to dermatological services and advance the field.
Dr. Steve Daveluy
Dr. Steve Daveluy, MD
Program Director and Associate Professor
Department of Dermatology
Wayne State University
Dearborn, MI
Dr. Steven Daveluy is a professor and program director at Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Dermatology Program based in Detroit, MI. He completed his medical education and dermatology residency at Wayne State University. Dr. Daveluy serves as an associate editor for JAAD case reports and co-editor in chief for the Journal of integrative dermatology. He is closely tied with the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation with his passion for the treatment of HS.
Dr. Alexandra Charrow
Dr. Alexandra Charrow, MD, FAAD
Assistant Professor
Department of Dermatology
Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Boston, MA
Dr. Alexandra Charrow is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital where she directs both the Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Neutrophilic Dermatoses clinic. She co-leads the Research and Treatment Committee of the Hidradenitis Foundation and speaks widely at national dermatology conferences about HS, biologic management, and IBD-associated dermatoses. This year she received a Dermatology Foundation Career Development Award and her research focuses on HS flare management, HS access, and IBD-associated dermatoses.
Issues 2024
ISSUE I:
Health Care/ Insurance Transparency
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: S.3548, the Health Care Prices Revealed and Information to Consumers Explained Transparency Act, aims to enhance transparency in healthcare pricing and information dissemination to consumers. This bill includes provisions mandating hospitals, insurance companies, imaging centers, and surgical centers to disclose prices for medical services and procedures in a clear, concise, and standardized manner.Status: Senate (introduced 12/14/2023)Sponsor: Sen. Braun, Mike [R-IN]Cosponsors: Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT], Sen. Smith, Tina [D-MN], Sen. Hickenlooper,
John W. [D-CO], Sen. Grassley, Chuck [R-IA], Sen. Coons, Christopher A. [D-DE]
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: S.3548, the Health Care Prices Revealed and Information to Consumers Explained Transparency Act, aims to enhance transparency in healthcare pricing and information dissemination to consumers. This bill includes provisions mandating hospitals, insurance companies, imaging centers, and surgical centers to disclose prices for medical services and procedures in a clear, concise, and standardized manner.Status: Senate (introduced 12/14/2023)Sponsor: Sen. Braun, Mike [R-IN]Cosponsors: Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT], Sen. Smith, Tina [D-MN], Sen. Hickenlooper,
John W. [D-CO], Sen. Grassley, Chuck [R-IA], Sen. Coons, Christopher A. [D-DE]
ISSUE II:
Recognizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in higher education
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary:Status: Introduced in House (07/20/2023)Sponsor: Rep. Marc Veasey [D-TX-33]Cosponsors: none at this time
VADTAD Position: OpposingSummary: This bill aims to remove DEI initiatives from medical schools by withholding federal funding to institutions with DEI initiatives in place.Status: Introduced in the HouseSponsor: Greg MurphyCosponsors: none at this time
ISSUE III:
Cosmetic Fragrance and Flavor Ingredient Right to Know Act of 2023
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: To amend title VI of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for greater transparency with respect to fragrance and flavor ingredients in cosmetics, and for other purposeStatus:Sponsor:Cosponsors:
issues 2023
ISSUE I:
Sun Safety, Children's Sunburn Protection Resolution, and Tanning Tax
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This bill encourages parents, teachers, childcare professionals, and others to take adequate measures to prevent the children they care for from becoming sunburned in order to decrease incidence of skin cancer by protecting children. This resolution expresses support for policies and other efforts to prevent childhood sunburns, such as exempting sunscreen from over-the-counter medication bans in schools.Status: House of Representatives, introduced May 25, 2021Sponsor: Representative David JoyceCosponsors: none at this time
VADTAD Position: OpposingSummary: This bill amends the international revenue code of 1986 to repeal the exise tax on indoor tanning servicesStatus: House of Representatives, introduced February 9, 2023Sponsor: Representative Carol MillerCosponsors: Representatives Drew Ferguson, Andy Barr, & Mike Carey
ISSUE II:
Biosimilar Affordability
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This bill intends to prohibit brand name drug companies from compensating generics
drug companies to delay the entry of a generic drug into the market. Additionally, it aims to prohibit biological product manufacturers from compensating biosimilar and interchangeable companies to delay the entry of biosimilar biological products and interchangeable biological products.Status: US Senate, Judiciary committee, introduced January 30, 2023Sponsor: Representative Amy KlombucharCosponsors: 10 in total, none from VA
ISSUE III:
Essential Healthcare - LGBTQ Dermatology and Gender Affirming Care
VADTAD Position: SupportingSummary: This resolution expresses support for implementing a Transgender Bill of Rights that guarantees certain rights for transgender and nonbinary people with respect to public services and accommodations, employment, housing, health care, and other specified areas.Status: House of Representatives, introduced March 30, 2023Sponsor: Jayapal PramilaCosponsors: 103 total, 3 from Virginia
VADTAD Position: OpposingSummary: This bill places restrictions on the provision of gender affirming care. Gender affirming care includes performing surgery, administering medication, or performing other procedures for the purpose of changing the body of an individual to correspond to a sex that differs from the individual's biological sex.Specifically, the bill makes it a felony to perform any gender affirming care on a minor and it permits a minor on whom such care is performed to bring a civil action against each individual who provided the care.Additionally, the bill prohibits the use of federal funds for gender affirming care or for health insurance that covers such care. Such care may not be provided in a federal health care facility or by a federal employee. The bill also prohibits qualified health plans from
including coverage for gender affirming care. Further, plans that include coverage for such care are not eligible for federal subsidies.Finally, the bill prohibits institutions of higher education from offering instruction in gender affirming care. It also makes any non-U.S. national (alien under federal law) who performs gender affirming care on a minor deportable and inadmissible to the United States.The restrictions under this bill do not apply to the provision of care under certain circumstances such as when an individual does not have normal sex chromosome structure, sex steroid hormone production, or sex steroid hormone action.Status: House of Representatives, introduced March 17, 2023Sponsor: Marojrie Taylor GreeneCosponsors: 38 total, 1 from Virginia
Issues 2022
Issue #1: S.2633/ H.R. 5430 Wigs as Durable Medical EquipmentBill Summary: This bill includes medically necessary cranial prostheses (e.g., wigs) as covered durable medical equipment under the Medicare program.
Issue #2: S. 464/ H.R. 2163 Safe Step ActBill Summary: A request for such an exception to the protocol must be granted if (1) an otherwise required treatment has been ineffective, (2) such treatment is expected to be ineffective and delaying effective treatment would lead to irreversible consequences, (3) such treatment will cause or is likely to cause an adverse reaction to the individual, (4) such treatment is expected to prevent the individual from performing daily activities or occupational responsibilities, (5) the individual is stable based on the prescription drugs already selected, or (6) there are other circumstances as determined by the Employee Benefits Security Administration.The bill requires a group health plan to implement and make readily available a clear process for an individual to request an exception to the protocol, including required information and criteria for granting an exception. The bill further specifies timelines under which plans must respond to such requests.
Issue #3: H.R. 2256/ S. 834 Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2021Bill Summary: This bill increases the number of residency positions eligible for graduate medical education payments under Medicare for qualifying hospitals, including hospitals in rural areas and health professional shortage areas. Current law provides for an increase of up to 200 positions per fiscal year beginning in FY2023, with a total increase of 1,000 positions; each hospital may receive up to 25 additional positions. The bill provides for an additional increase of 2,000 positions per fiscal year from FY2023-FY2029; during this period, each hospital may receive up to 75 additional positions in total under the bill and current law. Additionally, one-third of the positions that are made available under the bill must be allocated to hospitals that are already operating above applicable resident limits. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office to report on strategies to increase the diversity of the health professional workforce, including with respect to representation from rural, low-income, and minority communities. This bill requires a group health plan to establish an exception to medication step-therapy protocol in specified cases. A medication step-therapy protocol establishes a specific sequence in which prescription drugs are covered by a group health plan or a health insurance issuer.