We were incredibly honored to have the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) as the Elevate-Derm philanthropy partner for our summer conference in beautiful San Diego, California. As clinicians, we know that caring for patients with alopecia areata (AA) goes beyond addressing hair loss. AA is an autoimmune condition that can have significant emotional, social, and economic effects.
I had the opportunity to spend the day with a representative from NAAF (shout-out to Courtney!) and learn in depth about how advanced care providers (APPs) can use NAAF. NAAF provides education, resources, and support for both AA patients and medical professionals treating AA.
NAAF also helps connect AA patients with providers who are comfortable and up to date on treating their condition; this includes both doctors and APPs. There is a “Doctor Finder” link on the NAAF website that lists medical providers competent in treating AA by state. So, if you are an APP who treats AA regularly, don’t be afraid to register! All it takes is a quick and simple questionnaire to see if you qualify: Click HERE for the questionnaire
NAAF also offers educational webinars, clinical trial information, patient support groups, and resources addressing topics such as treatment options, insurance coverage, wigs, and the psychosocial impact of hair loss. These resources can be valuable tools for APPs looking to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
For NPs and PAs, becoming familiar with NAAF is a simple way to expand the resources available to patients with alopecia areata. Referring patients to a trusted patient advocacy organization can help them feel informed, supported, and connected—while allowing clinicians to focus on individualized treatment and shared decision-making.
Check out this incredible organization and consider donating to support their amazing cause: https://www.naaf.org/
Jenny Laminack resides in Alpharetta, Georgia, with her husband Joey. She enjoys traveling and hiking in her free time. She has worked as a dermatology PA since 2015 and has been with the Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases since 2017.
