History and Mission Statement PDF Print E-mail

History

      The North American Clinical Dermatologic Society is a not for profit organization and was founded in 1959. It was conceived by Charles Oclassen and a group of dermatologists who met in the Westwood hospitality suite during an American Academy of Dermatology meeting in the era when the annual AAD meeting was held in Chicago in the month of December. They envisioned the formation of a group that would emphasize education primarily focused on clinical dermatology and would incorporate visits to academic centers worldwide. Over fifty years the NACDS has grown into a vibrant, thriving association of board certified dermatologists and dermatopahtologists who share a common interest in the practice of dermatology and high quality CME.  Meetings have been held in North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.  Being a small organization of physicians who share a passion for dermatology members of the NACDS enjoy the benefits of good fellowship, develop long standing relationships with colleagues in private practice and academic medicine and share great travel experiences. New members are welcome and may join through sponsorship of existing members.

Mission Statement

     The primary mission of the NACDS is to provide the highest quality CME. The scientific programs have been approved for Category 1 AMA and AAD CME and may offer 20-25 hours at the annual meeting. The society offers a unique experience by holding its meetings in association with departments of dermatology in major medical centers throughout the world. Members have an opportunity to visit hospitals and university medical centers, see patients, interact with international faculties and trainees, see firsthand the practice of medicine abroad and learn about cultures of other countries. We view each of our members as ambassadors for dermatology and provide grants to the centers we visit.