AAD President Ronald L. Moy, MD: 'We are at the top of our game, committed to keeping you at the top of yours.'

A presidential address by a leader about to leave office often is a time for reflection on the past, but Academy President Ronald L. Moy, MD, instead looked ahead in his Plenary address Sunday, focusing on the need for the Academy and the specialty to adapt to the changing world.

In January, Dr. Moy appointed two special task forces to review the Academy's communications and advocacy efforts. "Both groups have reported that, indeed, we can do better. We can be more effective at serving you," he said. "Steps are already underway, and I am confident we will reflect a more member-focused, member-driven and member-served Academy."

The Academy has many strengths, which are highlighted with the Annual Meeting's education efforts, large exhibit halls, and networking opportunities.

"We, some 12,000 strong, come to this meeting because we feel it is vital … central to our continued success as dermatologists," Dr.Moy said, but added that change is coming. "Perhaps it is time for the Academy to come to us. We need to consider regional meetings, Web portals, and online services such as lectures, educational videos, medical literature searches, and discussion groups.

"All of these and more are worthy of consideration in our quest to double-down on our Academy's commitment to be a member-focused organization. You will begin to see the task force recommendations reflected in a series of initiatives aimed at heightening the public's awareness and understanding of the vital role dermatology plays."

The Academy and the public have "outdated views" of the services dermatologists can provide, which now include biologic- and genetic-base treatments, Dr. Moy said. "What we can do today for our patients is a far cry from when our specialty began with a focus on sexually transmitted diseases."

Change will also be seen in advocacy, with a greater focus on working with state legislatures. "The Academy must expand and strengthen its activities and services to partner more closely with dermatologic issues at the state level to better support your legislative priorities," he said.

Dr. Moy said these changes are an opportunity that will require a team effort to succeed, and he called for members to be more involved with the Academy, and encouraged donations to the Major Gifts program.

"It is an opportunity to be part of a greater good, a common cause, to rely on each other and draw strength from each other," he said. "That is how I would describe this year at our Academy. We are at the top of our game, committed to keeping you at the top of yours."