An Important Step for Global Dermatology: Letter of Commitment Signed by IPC, IFPA, and ILDS Presidents

In a significant moment for the field of dermatology, Hervé Bachelez, MD, PhD, President of the International Psoriasis Council (IPC), Hoseah Waweru, MD, President of the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), and Henry W. Lim MD, President of the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) recently convened to sign a letter of commitment. This agreement is a crucial milestone, emphasizing the strengthening of collaboration, the advancement of research, and the overall enhancement of the quality of life for the millions of individuals affected by psoriasis globally. The signing ceremony took place at the 2023 EADV Congress in Berlin. 

The letter of commitment affirmed the shared dedication and collaborative efforts to achieve five objectives:

Enhancing Advocacy and Awareness:  Working together to raise public awareness about skin conditions, particularly psoriasis, by educating policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public to advocate for equitable care and reduce stigma.

Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: Fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange amongst our organizations, members, and stakeholders to advance scientific understanding, treatment options, and best practices in psoriasis and dermatology.

Capacity Building:  Jointly developing and implementing educational initiatives, training programs, and resources to enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and community advocates.

Policy Influence:  The letter of commitment signifies a united front among international dermatological organizations, pooling expertise and resources to address challenges and drive change in dermatology, advocating for policies that prioritize dermatological health, promote access to affordable and quality care, and support research and innovation in the field.

Global Collaboration: Improving global collaboration and knowledge exchange among dermatologists, patient organizations, and stakeholders will identify challenges, develop innovative solutions, and create a more robust international dermatological community.

This letter of commitment is an important moment in global dermatology, promising advancements that will shape the future of dermatological care worldwide.