JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 10, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Cutaneous Oncology Society (ACOS) brought together nearly 100 dermatologists to share the science and best practices of providing Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) to patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). The first annual physicians meeting, recently held in Dallas, Texas, featured a two-day CME accredited program geared toward increased knowledge and successful implementation of non-surgical SRT treatment in clinical practice.
"This peer-to-peer meeting was about exchanging ideas and transforming the quality of care delivered to our patients who want a noninvasive and cost-conscious treatment option for basal and squamous cell cancers and keloids," said Clay J. Cockerell, clinical professor, Dermatology and Pathology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and former president of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The educational event focused on:
- Patient-centric treatment techniques
- New data on treatment regimens
- Differentiated benefits of SRT
According to ACOS President Mark Nestor, MD, PhD, a renowned dermatologist and director of the Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Miami, "All clinicians want appropriate patients with basal and squamous skin cancers or keloids to have the best possible outcomes. In certain cases that means state-of-the-art SRT treatment that preserves healthy tissue and delivers an extremely high cure rate with excellent cosmetic results."
To advance the knowledge of those using SRT in practice and enhance patient care, participants heard presentations and participated in discussions on NMSC epidemiology and histopathology, along with the newest iteration of SRT treatment techniques. The group also had an update on reimbursement, coding and patient education tools.
"The meeting was a great way to learn, in person, from others with different experiences and skill levels about best practices in SRT. Both new and veteran users recognized the high value of this convenient treatment modality and came away from the event with a new appreciation for how far Superficial Radiation Therapy has matured in the past few years," noted Dr. Nestor.
About ACOS
The American Cutaneous Oncology Society was founded to provide education and support multidisciplinary approaches for Dermatologists, Radiation Oncologists and other specialized medical professionals who are actively engaged in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin cancer and precancerous conditions. The Society develops information and resources to further public knowledge regarding skin cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention.