About ASMS
Establishment of the ASMS
The American Society for Mohs Surgery (ASMS) was founded in 1990 by a small group of dermatologists in Southern California, all of whom had received extensive Mohs training in residency and had successfully integrated the Mohs technique into their practices.
The ASMS was envisioned as a professional medical society dedicated to providing essential professional and educational support for skin cancer training. It also aimed to assist the growing number of residency-trained Mohs surgeons across the country.
The American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology, now known as the American College of Mohs Surgery, had previously established a post-residency Mohs Fellowship training program. This organization offered membership to dermatologists who successfully completed the fellowship.
However, the ASMS welcomed members from both Mohs Fellowship training and Residency training backgrounds. We created an environment in which members could openly share their Mohs knowledge and experience with other dermatologists whose skin cancer training had not included the Mohs technique.
Educational Objectives
The ASMS quickly developed recurring medical education courses. These courses feature multi-faceted demonstrations and discussions, highlighting the latest advances in skin cancer training and treatment. We also established a formal Peer Review program where members could regularly submit Mohs cases for quality assurance evaluation.
Today, the ASMS remains committed to high-quality dermatologic education. Our programs focus on surgical skill development and refinement, improved performance in practice, and enhancing patient outcomes in Mohs surgery and related techniques.
One of our courses, Fundamentals of Mohs Surgery, is devoted exclusively to Mohs surgery and provides a detailed overview of the technique and guidelines for establishing safe, efficient Mohs practices. We also recognize the important support role of the Mohs technician in performing successful Mohs surgery. Hands-on technician skin cancer training is a regular component of the annual course.
Membership Requirements
ASMS Fellow and Affiliate members must be certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology (AOBD).
Both the ABD and the AOBD promote high professional standards for dermatologists. Their Board certification candidates have been rigorously examined on dermatologic surgery and histopathology concepts, both of which are integral to the performance of Mohs surgery.
The ASMS requires our Fellow membership candidates to submit recent Mohs cases and related documentation for review prior to acceptance in this membership category. Fellow candidates must also pass an examination covering numerous Mohs surgery principles and demonstrate specific skills in interpreting Mohs histopathology.
Patient Access
We are extremely proud of our members’ significant contributions to patient health, from diligent skin cancer screening to applying the most appropriate medical and/or surgical interventions, including Mohs micrographic surgery.
The incidence of skin cancer continues to rise due to environmental and lifestyle factors. With earlier detection and more patients entering a high-risk age group, access to specialized care is more important than ever. We believe that all patients should have reasonable and timely access to well-trained skin cancer specialists and Mohs providers.
Learn more about trainings for skin cancer treatment with the American Society for Mohs Surgery by contacting us at 785-783-2070 or filling out a Contact Form here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of the ASMS Membership Program?
The ASMS membership offers a variety of professional and educational benefits for dermatologists:
- Discounted Fees: Members receive reduced rates for the four annual educational courses and resource products.
- Professional Advocacy: ASMS advocates for fair credentialing, coding, and reimbursement in dermatology and Mohs surgery, ensuring members’ professional interests are represented.
- Networking Opportunities: Members gain access to a network of Mohs professionals and can participate in inter-society collaborations and educational sessions.
- Patient Referrals: Members are included in a searchable online directory and receive frequent patient referrals through the ASMS website and toll-free number.
- Educational Resources: Access to patient education materials, peer review programs, and sponsorship of important dermatology courses and symposiums.
These benefits support professional growth and offer valuable resources to dermatologists practicing Mohs surgery.
How Does the ASMS Support Dermatologists Who Are New to Performing Mohs Surgery?
The ASMS supports new Mohs surgeons through the Fundamentals of Mohs Surgery course and the Observational Preceptorship program. The preceptorship involves observing Mohs procedures over three separate weeks, allowing participants to gain hands-on exposure to the complete Mohs process, including lesion removal, histopathologic interpretation, and closure techniques.
What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in the ASMS Educational Courses?
To enroll in the Observational Preceptorship program, participants must be current ASMS members and have completed the Fundamentals of Mohs Surgery course. Other courses are open to all members and their Mohs technicians with discounted fees. Non-member physicians and their technicians can also participate. Please view the individual course registration pages for more details.
Can Non-Dermatologists, Such as Dermatopathologists or Surgeons, Join the ASMS?
While membership is primarily for dermatologists, the ASMS also offers membership for Mohs technicians and related support personnel. However, physicians must typically hold dermatology certification to qualify for full membership.
How Can ASMS Members Contribute to or Participate in Future Educational Course Development?
Members may be able to participate as faculty in ASMS courses and programs. There may also be opportunities for members to present at our annual meetings and to assist in training other physicians and technicians through the Preceptorship program. Please contact us for more information.
Advance Your Career in Mohs Surgery
Interested in expanding your expertise in Mohs surgery or enhancing your practice with the latest skin cancer treatment techniques? Join the American Society for Mohs Surgery and gain access to specialized educational programs, hands-on training, and a supportive network of professionals dedicated to advancing dermatologic surgery.
Contact us today at 785-783-2070 to learn more about membership opportunities and upcoming courses.
