DermCatalyst: Accelerating Access and Innovation in Dermatology
Register for the 2026 DermCatalyst
Register today for a unique opportunity to discuss outreach programs and initiatives, exchange ideas, and share success stories.
Register now for free2026 DermCatalyst
July 16, 2026 (concurrent with 2026 Innovation Academy)
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (reception to follow)
New York Hilton Midtown
1335 6th Ave.
New York, NY 10019
DermCatalyst is a collaborative, solutions-oriented workshop that convenes leaders from across the dermatology ecosystem — including academic medicine, private practice, training, and organized medicine — to advance practical approaches to access, workforce development, and innovation in dermatologic care. The program builds on the legacy of the Diversity Champion Workshop while expanding its reach, relevance, and impact across the specialty.
New York is the place to be this summer. Don’t miss 2026 AAD Innovation Academy, also happening right in the New York Hilton Midtown—register now and be a part of our cutting-edge program!
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this activity, learners should be able to:
Discuss the lack of inclusivity in dermatology and the causes
Recognize the important role residency programs have in improving inclusivity in the dermatology workforce
Facilitate the establishment and ongoing development of outreach programs in dermatology residency programs
Apply a transition framework to identify one 30-day action that sustains equity, opportunity, and mission-driven impact in changing environments
Define and operationalize the three components to trauma informed care, learning mitigating, and healing. Then, participants will practice these components through an interactive and dialogic case study on dermatology care involving a resident physician, attending physician, and a patient with a history of psychological trauma.
Distinguish between self-assessed and objectively measured clinician language proficiency and apply this distinction when making clinical staffing or interpreter-use decisions
AMA Credit Designation
The American Academy of Dermatology designates this live activity for a maximum of 6.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Disclaimer
The American Academy of Dermatology is not responsible for statements made by the faculty. Statements or opinions expressed in this activity reflect the views of the faculty and do not reflect the official policy of the American Academy of Dermatology. The information provided in this CME activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for independent medical judgement of a health provider relative to the diagnostic, management and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition.
Agenda *subject to change
TIME | TOPIC | SPEAKER |
|---|---|---|
7:30 - 8:15 a.m. | Breakfast and Networking |
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8:15 - 8:50 a.m. |
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Comments from Founder (Dr. Lim) and Previous Chairs Comments from current AAD leadership and incorporation into strategic and inclusivity (TBD) |
8:50 - 9 a.m. | Break | |
Plenary Session 1: Immersion in Trauma-Informed Care | ||
9 - 9:45 a.m. | Learn, Mitigate, then Heal: Taking Trauma-Informed Care into the Future |
Dr. Joél Arvizo-Zavala, PhD, MEd, CHES |
9:45 - 10:30 a.m. | Small Groups |
|
10:30 - 11 a.m. | Debrief | |
11:00 a.m. - Noon |
Panel Discussion: Engagement Across the Specialty and the House of Medicine (TBD) | |
Noon - 1 p.m. | Networking Lunch |
|
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Plenary Session 2: Dermatology Today: Access, Representation, and Vision for the Path Forward | ||
1 - 1:30 p.m. | Leading Through Transition: Sustaining Equity, Opportunity, and Impact in Changing Environments |
Dr. Ann-Gel Palermo, DrPH, MPH, TIPC, ACC |
1:30 - 2 p.m. | Advances in language proficiency assessment and certification for the dermatology physician workforce | Dr. Lisa Diamond, MD, MPH, MHS, FACP |
2 - 2:15 p.m. | Q & A |
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2:15 - 2:45 p.m. | Small Groups
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2:45 - 3:15 p.m. | Debrief | |
3:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. | Presentation of Catalyst Recognition and Introduction of the Inaugural Recipient | |
3:45 - 4 p.m. | Closing Remarks | |
4 - 5 p.m. | Closing Reception and Celebration of the Launch of DermCatalyst |
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Housing Information
DermCatalyst-Only Attendees
Attendees participating in the 2026 DermCatalyst-only are required to secure their own accommodations. A list of nearby hotels is available below.
Attendees Registered for DermCatalyst and Innovation Academy
Attendees registered for both events are eligible to book accommodations through the 2026 Innovation Academy Housing webpage.
