Membership
Membership
Welcome to the Dermatology Society of South Africa (DSSA) membership page. DSSA Membership is open to registered dermatologists who are in good standing with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). As a member of the DSSA, you will be part of a respected and influential organisation that strives to advance the science and practice of dermatology in South Africa and beyond.
Why join the DSSA?
Annual Congress & Professional Development
The DSSA plays a key role in advancing dermatology by organising an annual congress that brings together dermatologists to discuss the latest developments in the field. We also offer financial awards for research and grants to dermatology departments to foster ongoing scientific exploration and innovation.
Networking & Collaboration
Through our congresses, product launches, website, and other forums, the DSSA fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among dermatologists. These platforms offer valuable opportunities for professional interaction and growth, enabling members to stay at the forefront of dermatological practice.
Promoting Member Practices
The DSSA is committed to promoting the professional interests of dermatologists. As a member, your practice will be listed on our website, accessible to the general public. This enhances your visibility and helps patients find the right care.
Special Interests & Subgroup Societies
The DSSA supports the exploration of various sub-specialties within dermatology. Through our sister society, The South African Surgical Dermatology Society, and subgroup societies such as The Vitiligo Society, The South African Melanoma Society, and The African Women’s Dermatology Society, we provide avenues for focused engagement in specific areas of dermatological care.
Supporting Dermatology Staff
The DSSA promotes strong relationships between dermatologists and their employees. Our subgroup society, the South African Dermatology Physician Assistant’s Society, supports the education and development of dermatology physician assistants, which further strengthens the quality of care provided to patients.
International Collaboration
As a member of the International League of Dermatology Societies (ILDS), DSSA members enjoy discounted registration fees at international congresses. Our society is also proud to have a member serving as the ambassador for the African region, underscoring our influential role on the global dermatological stage.
Support for Registrars
The DSSA supports the education of dermatology registrars by offering discounted congress registration fees. Additionally, we organise an annual competition to recognise and reward the best registrar presentations, nurturing the next generation of dermatology professionals.
Recognition of Excellence
The DSSA acknowledges and celebrates those who excel in the field of dermatology with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement and Service Awards. These awards recognise exceptional contributions to the field and provide a platform for members to be honoured for their dedication and achievements.
Advocacy & Mediation
While the DSSA does not have legal authority, we actively intervene on behalf of our members when complaints arise. Our mediation efforts often prevent issues from escalating to formal hearings at the HPCSA or in court, providing valuable support to our members in challenging situations.
Engagement with Medical Aids
The DSSA is committed to improving the financial well-being of our members by engaging with medical aids to negotiate better fees for consultations and procedures. We also advocate for the acceptance of new procedural codes, ensuring that dermatologists are fairly compensated for their work.
Advancing Patient Care
We strive to enhance the standard of care for patients by collaborating with medical aids to ensure that new treatments, such as biologics and JAK inhibitors, are accepted. The DSSA also provides clinical guidelines for the management of dermatological conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of care.
Dedicated Support from the Executive Committee
The DSSA’s executive committee is always available to address the needs of our members. Whether you require guidance on professional matters or have specific concerns, our committee is here to offer support and assistance.
Become a Member
Become a Member
Joining the DSSA offers an opportunity to be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking community of dermatologists. Our society is committed to advancing the field of dermatology, advocating for our members, and supporting the highest standards of patient care.
If you are a registered dermatologist in good standing with the HPCSA, we invite you to apply for membership today. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the field of dermatology.
Contact us to apply for Membership
Sister Societies of the DSSA
The Dermatology Society of South Africa (DSSA) is proud to collaborate with several specialised sister societies, each committed to advancing knowledge, treatment, and care in specific areas of dermatology. These societies offer members access to targeted education, support, and resources.
