Entries for L’Oréal’s International Awards for Social Responsibility in Dermatology are now open. The programme rewards community-based dermatology projects initiated by individuals, associations or hospitals, which provide benefits to patients beyond their treatment regimes.
Themed ‘caring to inspire skin confidence’, the awards take place every four years. This year, they will be presented at the 23rd World Congress of Dermatology in Vancouver, Canada on 9 June, with the support of the International League of Dermatological Societies.
Five prizes of US$15 000 each are awarded to one winner from each of the following five geographical zones: Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, Europe, North America and South America. Projects entered into the programme need to fall within one of these three categories:
- Prevention and Education: Any initiative favouring the prevention of dermatological illnesses, and education for patients, their families and the general public (including support networks and campaigns) on dermatological pathologies, conditions, impact awareness and promotion of good or healthy behaviour. Examples include consultations, patient-family information workshops, school or information campaigns, and advice on environmental factors and healthy living.
- Improved Quality of Life and Self-Esteem: Projects supporting improvements in physical or psychological quality of life for patients, such as psychological therapies and efforts to reduce the stigma attached to skin diseases.
- Access to Care, Coverage and Surgery: Initiatives such as free screenings or consultations, travelling doctors, nurse training, make-up workshops or free reconstructive surgery.
All dermatologists are eligible to enter independently or on behalf of an association or hospital. All entries are evaluated by an independent scientific committee of renowned dermatologists. Applications are open and will be accepted until 15 April 2015. For more details and to download an application form, visit www.inspireskinconfidence.com.
