Established in 1959, the Colorado Dermatologic Society (CDS) is the professional society for the more than 200 practicing dermatologists in the state of Colorado. Through the efforts of its Board of Directors and physician members, the CDS strives to enhance skin health in Colorado through education and advocacy for the public and medical community alike.

Encouraging our members to continue providing exceptional, evidence-based dermatologic care is at the forefront of our mission. Thus, providing continuing medical education (CME) is one of the key objectives of the society. We host eight monthly CME meetings. The meetings feature expert speakers and challenging “grand rounds-style” case presentations on a variety of dermatology-related topics. Meeting eight times a year provides an opportunity to learn as well as interact with colleagues in the profession. In addition, the CDS hosts an Annual Meeting in September. The Annual Meeting is a one day meeting of education from nationally recognized experts in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

Our society works diligently to increase public awareness of dermatologic conditions and the significant risk of skin cancer here in Colorado. Our members participate in numerous skin cancer screenings throughout the state through our partnership with other organizations such as the Colorado Skin Cancer Task Force. As a society we host an annual Sun Safety Awareness Day at the Denver Botanic Gardens. In the past, the Sun Safety Day has been awarded the AAD Model State Award for State Society Volunteer Project. The annual event at the Botanic Gardens is an excellent way to encourage sun safety and we encourage as many members who can attend to be a part of this volunteer opportunity.

An important way in which CDS promotes public awareness about dermatologic conditions is through the legislative process. Our Board has testified and played a role in shaping numerous legislative matters over the past several years including scope of practice concerns, access to biosimilar medications, indoor tanning by minors, and others. Many of these efforts have been collaborative efforts with our colleagues in other medical fields and specialties. We believe that being part of this process and being actively involved in advocating for our patients’ health and safety is essential and our duty. In the coming year, we look forward to continuing to work with our colleagues in other state medical societies to promote the health of Colorado.

If you are a dermatologist in Colorado, we invite you to be a part of our society and encourage you to attend our meetings and volunteer events. It is a great way to ensure we are working together as a profession to fulfill the mission of our Society. If you are a current member and have questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to serving you this year and beyond.