Dr. Linda Rozell-Shannon, PhD President and Founder
Since 2012, I have been working with former President, Dr. Thomas McInerny, of the American Academy of Pediatrics to change the guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas. Much progress has been made but many babies, worldwide, are still denied early intervention.
My constant petitioning has resulted in many changes including updating the Physician’s Desk Reference, Changing the Pediatric Pocket Guide, Issuing a letter to all Insurance Companies and distributing a webinar I co-hosted with former Ped Derm President Dr. Bernard Cohen of Johns Hopkins.
Just before Christmas, Dr. McInerny wrote to me to tell me that the previous “wait and see” approach is now being “discouraged” with the issuance of brand new guidelines. What a great way to ring in the New Year!
“The American Academy of Pediatrics’ first infantile hemangioma clinical practice guideline discourages the traditional “wait and see” approach. Instead, the report calls for early identification of certain hemangiomas that may cause scarring or medical problems. The goal: prompt treatment – when needed – for best outcomes.”
It does not matter what city, state, or country you are from. If the American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the old “wait and see” approach, then the rest of the world will soon follow.
Moms and Dads….take this to you pediatrician or any physician so that he/she can see the newest directive for early identification and treatment.
Can you imagine what would happen if there was no more “leave it alone” philosophies? One giant leap for mankind today!!! To say I am thrilled is an understatement.
– — Dr. Linda, PHD
The report, “Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Infantile Hemangiomas,” will be published in the January 2019 Pediatrics (available online Dec. 24)
For more information you can find the official press release from the American Academy of Pediatrics on their website.
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