News Archives - Skin Health Institute

Leadership transition and new appointments at 2023 AGM

Hajnal Nagy — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 22:24:13 +0000

The Skin Health Institute convened its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 15 November, marking a change in its governance and leadership.

Outgoing President A/Prof Rosemary Nixon AM passed the mantle to Dr Edward Upjohn, who was voted in as the new President.

During the 2022 Annual General Meeting, a decision was made by our members to amend the governance structure. In a resolution to amend the Statement of Purposes and Rules of Skin Health Institute Incorporated, specifically Article 13, it was decided to expand the management committee (Committee or Board) by adding additional dermatologists.

In the subsequent implementation of this resolution, A/Prof Peter Foley, Dr Sarah Smithson and Dr Flora Poon were duly elected to the Board at the 2023 AGM.

They join the team of continuing Board members, including Treasurer Jim Power, Governance Committee Chair Dr Damien Angus, A/Prof Aaron Robinson, Dr Jennifer Cahill, A/Prof Patrick Mahar OAM, Hamish Walton, and Margie Stewart.

With the new leadership and increased medical expertise on the Board, the Skin Health Institute is poised for continued growth, excellence, and impactful contributions to the field of dermatology.

We thank Rosemary for her leadership and service and wish her all the best in her future endeavours at SHI.

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A new chapter in SHI’s leadership

Hajnal Nagy — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 22:20:59 +0000

The Skin Health Institute’s Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 15 November marked a significant transition in leadership. After four years at the helm, Associate Professor Rosemary Nixon AM handed over the reins, and Dr Edward Upjohn assumed the role of President.

Rosemary’s tenure has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her profound influence on the Institute spans a career characterised by innovation, dedication, and service, first stepping onto the Board in 1989 until 2001. Then again from 2009, serving as Vice-President for many of those years.

With qualifications in dermatology and occupational medicine, Ro’s service to the Institute has been marked by many milestones, including establishing the Occupational Dermatology Clinic in 1993. She’s been instrumental in leading the Occupational Dermatology Research and Education Centre at the Institute, contributing to significant progress in treatment and knowledge of allergens through her research.

Notably, her global influence has led to her membership in the prestigious International Contact Dermatitis Research Group and the publication of over 150 scientific papers. These are only some of the facets of her career that has seen her honoured with numerous awards and accolades, including the Order of Australia in 2017.

Throughout her tenure as President from 2019, Ro steered the Institute through the turbulent waters of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the Institute continued to provide exceptional dermatological care while adapting to the challenges of the times.

Ro has now passed the baton on to Dr Edward Upjohn who has had a long-standing association with the Skin Health Institute and is a respected Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists and a Fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery.

With over ten years of experience as a Mohs specialist at the Institute, Edward has been a valuable mentor, sharing his knowledge and skills with dermatology registrars.

Edward’s involvement with the Skin Health Institute has seen him serve on the Board, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the Institute’s strategic direction. After a brief hiatus from the Board, he returned in 2022. Part of his role as President will see Edward chairing Board meetings, and serving as a member of several critical committees, including the Finance Audit and Risk Management Committee and the Governance Committee.

The transition in leadership marks a new chapter for the Skin Health Institute, one that builds upon the strong foundations laid by A/Prof Rosemary Nixon AM and introduces fresh perspectives and opportunities under the capable guidance of Dr Edward Upjohn. We look forward to the future and continued excellence in dermatological care under his leadership.

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World Psoriasis Day 2023: access for all

Hajnal Nagy — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 22:00:00 +0000

World Psoriasis Day (WPD) is a global initiative, uniting millions of people who suffer from psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. With its roots extending to 2004, WPD aims to spread awareness and advocate for access to the right treatment at the right time for those living with psoriasis.

Psoriasis affects over 125 million individuals worldwide. It’s not just a skin condition; it’s a global concern. WPD plays a crucial role in disseminating vital information, offering a glimmer of hope for those facing life with this condition.

WPD brings the psoriasis community together, forging connections among patients, their families, and friends. Through events like runs, walks, and educational seminars, people come together to support each other. These gatherings share not only personal experiences but also the latest scientific and medical insights, spreading optimism and knowledge in equal measure.

Access to adequate medical care is a right. WPD helps to raise awareness and generate funds for critical research that broadens treatment horizons. Especially in regions with limited healthcare access, these funds are the lifeline for delivering quality care to those who need it the most.

The 2023 theme for WPD is “access for all.” It’s a call to action for universal healthcare access and timely, appropriate treatment for all psoriasis patients.

In this spirit, we’ve created a video where we look at access more closely and ask:

What does the right treatment at the right time mean to you?

What does universal healthcare mean to your patients?

What are psoriasis advocates doing to promote access for all?

At the Skin Health Institute, we’re dedicated to advancing the cause of WPD. We’ve been actively involved in clinical trials for psoriasis, which have not only improved patient outcomes but have also brought new treatments to market. The pursuit of knowledge and innovation continues through current psoriasis trials. We offer a range of resources, including our Spot Diagnosis Podcast, which provides valuable insights into psoriasis.

We also continue to see patients at our Advanced Targeted Therapies Clinic, a hub for those seeking cutting-edge treatments.

Our mission and values reflect our commitment to making the right treatment available to every patient. We firmly stand behind the idea of “access for all” as we continue to expand our educational initiatives and raise awareness about psoriasis.

Today we use this platform to advocate for “access for all.” Your story, your voice, and your support matter.

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Spot Diagnosis’ A/Prof Alvin Chong features on the Aussie Med Ed Podcast

Jasmine Crouch — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:08:26 +0000

A/Prof Alvin Chong, the co-creator and co-host of the Spot Diagnosis Podcast, was recently a guest on the Aussie Med Ed podcast hosted by orthopaedic surgeon Dr Gavin Nimon. During this episode they explore prevalent dermatological conditions commonly encountered in Australia, with a focus on skin cancer and acne.

The Aussie Med Ed is a medical education podcast designed to educate medical students, practitioners and anyone looking to broaden their understanding of the medical field. The podcast is known for interviewing specialists in their respective field and highlighting a wide range of medical conditions.

With the rise of skin cancer among younger populations, the episode discusses the importance of sun protection. It explores the detrimental effects sun exposure has on our skin, offers guidance on applying sunscreen effectively, and highlights the importance of public health campaigns in educating the broader population and helping to combat the rise of skin cancer.

Alvin and Gavin also delve into the most recent advancements in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, providing insights into the progress made in melanoma treatment, with emphasis on the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Additionally, the episode touches on acne, a prevalent skin condition affecting approximately 80% of individuals aged 12 to 25. Alvin discusses the spectrum of acne presentations, ranging from milder forms that can be managed with over-the-counter topical treatments to more severe nodular cystic acne, which typically requires prescription oral medications.

This engaging discussion between A/Prof Alvin Chong and Dr Gavin Nimon sheds light on common dermatological issues, providing valuable knowledge for medical professionals and the broader public.

You can listen to the Aussie Med Ed episode with A/Prof Alvin Chong here.

To further expand your knowledge on the subjects discussed in the episode, you can explore the related Spot Diagnosis Podcast episodes covering sun protection, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratoses  and  acne.

If you would like to learn more about the Spot Diagnosis Podcast, you can visit the Spot Diagnosis Podcast page.

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Skin Health Institute featured on Foxtel’s Industry Leaders program

Hajnal Nagy — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 05:24:47 +0000

The Skin Health Institute (SHI) was recently highlighted on Foxtel’s Industry Leaders program. The program is known for showcasing businesses and organisations that have made substantial contributions in their respective fields.

The segment featured SHI President, A/Prof Rosemary Nixon AM, our Director Research, A/Prof Peter Foley and our Director Medical Education, A/Prof Aaron Robinson, who each spoke on the different facets of the Institute and dermatology.

Rosemary credited some of the success of the Institute to the comradery of dermatologists as well as honing in on her specialty clinics. Peter gave insights in the new and emerging therapies for skin conditions such as psoriasis and the improved treatments for melanoma while Aaron gave a comprehensive overview of the Institute and our educational offerings.

The feature certainly demonstrated that the contributions of SHI are not limited to research and education. We are shaping the industry, setting new standards, and advancing skin health.

Through our culture of innovation and research, the Institute has been at the forefront of major breakthroughs in the field, impacting the lives of patients who benefit from these advancements.

The Industry Leaders program is a significant milestone for SHI. It serves as validation for our hard work and commitment to creating a lasting impact in skin health.

Watch the video below.

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Psoriasis Awareness Month 2023

Hajnal Nagy — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 06:29:22 +0000

Empowering understanding, inspiring support

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, affects millions of individuals worldwide, including a significant number of Australians. This August, during Psoriasis Awareness Month, we aim to shed light on this prevalent condition, raise awareness, and emphasise the importance of empathy and support for those living with psoriasis.

In Australia, psoriasis is estimated to impact approximately 2-3% of the population, making it a relatively common dermatological concern. Despite its prevalence, psoriasis remains widely misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and stigmatisation among patients.

At the Skin Health Institute, we have committed our support to Psoriasis Awareness Month with a mission to create empathy and awareness for people with psoriasis and promote a better understanding of this condition. We recognise that beyond medical treatment, patients need compassionate support and understanding from their communities. Through various initiatives, we strive to foster an environment of compassion and knowledge, allowing patients to feel heard and supported as they learn to manage their condition.

Our dedication to enhancing dermatological care extends to providing the latest treatment options. Our Advanced Targeted Therapies Clinic offers cutting-edge therapies that specifically address psoriasis, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our expert dermatologists work closely with patients to develop personalised treatment plans, empowering them to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

Education is key to unlocking progress in dermatology, so through our suite of educational resources, we seek to help health professionals to stay at the forefront of their clinical practice. Our Masterclasses, GP Workshops, Advanced Therapeutics Education Portal, and Spot Diagnosis podcast episodes provide valuable insights and updates on psoriasis management and treatment options.

As part of our commitment to advancing psoriasis research, we are actively conducting clinical trials focused on nail and body psoriasis. These trials play a crucial role in uncovering innovative treatments and improving outcomes for people with psoriasis. By participating in our clinical trials, individuals not only contribute to medical advancements but also have the opportunity to access potential breakthrough therapies.

During Psoriasis Awareness Month and beyond, we stay dedicated in the pursuit of improving patient outcomes, expanding healthcare professional knowledge and advancing treatment options.

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Introducing CosMe, your personalised skincare assistant

Hajnal Nagy — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 23:51:23 +0000

We are thrilled to announce the launch of CosMe, a revolutionary new app developed in collaboration with the Skin Health Institute. CosMe is set to transform the way patients and clinicians approach skincare by providing evidence-based recommendations that empower individuals to take control of their skin health.

CosMe is the ultimate skincare companion, tailor-made by dermatologists to cater to patient’s unique needs. With CosMe, users will discover products that are free from high-risk ingredients, improving quality of life for those combating contact dermatitis, and, in some cases, saving costs by avoiding inappropriate products.

CosMe is set to bridge the gap between clinicians and patients. Healthcare professionals will have access to a platform that assists in recommending the right products for patient needs. Patients will leave consults with invaluable knowledge to help them navigate the cosmeceutical landscape, while clinicians will experience improved clinical efficiency in the diagnosis and management of contact dermatitis.

The Skin Health Institute, renowned for its expertise in patch testing, has joined forces with CosMe to transform contact dermatitis management. As part of our commitment to being a centre of excellence in skin health, we’re proud to promote CosMe to all future contact dermatitis patients.

Approximately 1 in 5 Australians are affected by contact dermatitis, by leveraging CosMe’s extensive database of over 5,000 Australian products, users can easily search, filter, and find a skincare match. Ingredients are demystified, allergens are highlighted, and cross-reactions are explained. Reacting to sunscreen, makeup, or lip balm will soon be a thing of the past.

Download the CosMe app now to see start your personalised skincare journey. As the app is still in its infancy, the creators’ welcome feedback and suggestions, so contact admin@cosmeapp.com.au with any improvements.

CosMe is available for download on the Apple Store and Google Play.

Step into the future of skincare management with CosMe – your trusted skincare companion.

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Spotlight on GP Education with our Education and Research Fellow

Hajnal Nagy — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 01:22:45 +0000

Spotlight on GP Education with our Education and Research Fellow

With a background in research science, Dr Laxmi Iyengar has always been drawn to the pursuit of new knowledge, leading her to embark on a career in medicine with the impact her research could have on improving the health and well-being of her patients.

Her interest in skin health was sparked by a love for teaching and the gratification it brings. Joining the Skin Health Institute as an Education and Research Fellow has allowed Laxmi to consolidate her knowledge and support the education of her fellow GPs – an opportunity she finds incredibly rewarding. Through her role, she actively contributes to GP education workshops, sharing her expertise and insights to enhance the dermatological knowledge of her colleagues.

Reflecting on a memorable patient experience, Laxmi recalls a case involving a young child with severe eczema. Witnessing the impact of this condition on the child and their family reinforced the significance of education in managing such common skin conditions.

In addition to her educational endeavours, Laxmi is involved in exciting research projects and clinical trials. One notable project is the Spot Diagnosis Podcast a podcast series that examines the skin complaints commonly encountered by general practitioners. It provides evidence-based, up-to-date medical education and information aimed at upskilling GPs and other healthcare practitioners in treating skin complaints, in order to improve the skin health of our communities.

Laxmi envisions the field of skin health evolving rapidly over the next 5-10 years. With the increasing prevalence of skin disorders and the rising burden of skin diseases, GPs will play a crucial role in managing these conditions, “the burden of skin diseases affects millions of Australians, and as GPs, we are at the forefront of tackling this challenge,” she says, “the rapid advancements in biologicals and small molecule inhibitors offer promising possibilities for improving skin health.”

Dr Iyengar’s future career goals include continued contributions to education and research, ensuring that GPs like you have access to the latest knowledge and best practices. As part of this, we’re thrilled to announce that Laxmi will be facilitating our upcoming GP Workshops. We encourage all GPs to take advantage of these workshops to enhance their dermatological skills and expand their understanding of skin health.

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Shining a light on HS Awareness Week

Hajnal Nagy — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 00:39:12 +0000

Shining a light on HS Awareness Week

This week is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Awareness Week, which serves as an essential platform to educate individuals about this often-misunderstood chronic skin condition that affects many individuals within our community.

This week aims to shed light on HS while fostering a sense of community among patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups. By raising awareness, dispelling myths, and promoting understanding, we can offer support and solidarity to those living with HS.

Symptoms of HS can vary, but commonly include painful and recurrent nodules and abscesses that develop in areas of the body such as the underarms, groin, and buttocks. These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, causing physical pain, limited mobility, and emotional distress.

One of the challenges with HS is that it often remains undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. Many patients go through a long and frustrating journey before receiving an accurate diagnosis. This delay can be attributed to the lack of awareness and knowledge about HS among both patients and healthcare professionals.

Moreover, the impact of HS goes beyond the physical symptoms. The condition can take a toll on mental health, leading to feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and depression. The visible nature of HS can cause patients to withdraw from social activities and experience a decline in their overall wellbeing.

At the Skin Health Institute, we are dedicated to supporting HS patients on their journey to diagnosis, treatment, and improved quality of life. Our team of dermatology specialists is well-versed in the complexities of HS and offers comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Together, let’s raise awareness about Hidradenitis Suppurativa and ensure that those affected receive the support, understanding, and care they deserve. Join us in shining a light on HS Awareness Week and spreading the message of early diagnosis, effective management, and improved mental well-being.

If you have any concerns or questions about HS or would like to schedule an appointment at our HS Clinic, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 03 9623 9400 or email schivers@skinhealthinstitute.org.au.

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Skin Health Institute recognised at ACD ASM

Skin Health Institute — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:04:27 +0000

Skin Health Institute recognised at ACD ASM

During the highly anticipated Australasian College of Dermatologists Annual Scientific Meeting (ACD ASM), the outstanding achievements of the dermatology community including several Skin Health Institute (SHI) staff and consultants were recognised.

SHI Consultant Dr Michelle Goh was appointed as the ACD Chief Examination Officer. Registrar Dr Dale Jobson was acknowledged with the Adrian Johnson Prize, awarded for the best publication by a trainee in the esteemed Australasian Journal of Dermatology, and Dr Seamus McWhirter and Dr Blake Mumford, who were recognised for their outstanding presentations at the conference.

Congratulations to new ACD President Dr Adriene Lee, who was officially instated at the AGM succeeding Immediate Past President Dr Clare Tait, who has completed her two-year term in the role.

We would also like to extend our congratulations to Dr Adrian Lim, the newly appointed President-Elect of the ACD.

Additionally, we would like to acknowledge the dermatology registrars who have become Fellows of the ACD.

At the concurrent ADNA Conference, our nursing staff also received

well-deserved recognition.

Sue Anderson was honoured with the Excellence in Dermatology Nursing Award, reflecting her exceptional dedication and commitment to providing top-quality care to patients and nurse education.

Additionally, Jane Duncan received the Best Poster Award for her poster titled “Overview of Biologic Drugs Prescribed by Dermatologists to Treat Psoriasis in the Adult Australian Population,” showcasing her valuable contributions to dermatology research.

These achievements not only highlight the excellence of our team but also reinforce our commitment to providing exceptional care and advancing dermatological practices. Congratulations once again to all the deserving award recipients and new Fellows of the ACD.

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