Giving Back to the Community

 

Photo by Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C.

Patient Education

At Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., we believe that an informed and educated patient makes for better treatment of their own diseases.  The more a patient understands about the disease and potential treatments, the better able they are to make wise and informed choices.  Ultimately, we have seen that if the patient takes an active role and has greater input and participation in the decisions concerning their illness, they are more likely to comply with the treatment programs.

 

            For over thirty years we have committed ourselves to educating our patients.  We have written and published multiple brochures on a variety of diseases, and distribute our educational magazine, Skinnews, annually.  In addition, we have developed information sheets on all of the common dermatologic diseases as well as extensive educational booklets on acne, vulgaris and psoriasis. 

 

            Over the past few years, Skinnews has evolved into a rather extensive educational booklet containing information on disease treatments as well as the dermatologic, laser and cosmetic procedures that we have to offer.  The current issue of Skinnews is more inclusive and educational than ever before.

 

Public Support Groups

            Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. and our Plastic Surgery Department have supported the Central Illinois Lupus Society for over twenty-five years.  Based on our administrative support, in additional to the major educational contributions and public lectures over the years, our office was awarded the Fidelitus Award.  To this day, the Central Illinois Lupus Society’s Board of Directors meets monthly at our facility.

 

            Moreover, one of the few National Psoriasis Support Groups meets monthly at Soderstrom Dermatology Center.  This organization helps Psoriasis patients who are emotionally devastated by the disease gain the support of not only others who have similar problems but gain the support from our nursing and medical staff as well.  Furthermore, an annual meeting is held here in an effort to update and inform Psoriasis patients in Central and Downstate Illinois of the current issues, treatment options and availability of Psoriasis care. 

 

Skin Cancer Screenings

            For over thirty years, Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., has supported free skin cancer screenings for the public in Central Illinois.  At any one of these screenings, hundreds of people may be seen.  Over the years, we have found hundreds of malignant melanomas, basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers, and thousands of changing, irregular and worrisome moles.  These screenings have allowed early detection and early treatment of skin cancers, particularly malignant melanomas, and have saved countless lives. 

 

            These screenings are typically held on Saturdays and are offered approximately nine times per year in Central Illinois at no charge.

 

Rolan Johnson Christmas Cards

Each year, Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., displays a beautifully framed collection of the Rolan Johnson Christmas Cards in November and December.  At Christmas time, we invite the public to share this inspirational experience.  In addition, we participate with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception in the sale of the Rolan Johnson Christmas tree ornaments to help with their charitable efforts. 

 

Heartland Clinic

            Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., and the Plastic Surgery program have been founding supporters and continuous contributors to patients suffering from skin diseases that cannot afford to pay.  These Heartland Clinic referrals come to us on an “as necessary” basis and are seen and treated free of charge.

 

Illinois Public Aid

            Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., has always made an effort to care for patients on Illinois Public Aid.  Although many physicians no longer accept public aid patients, we believe it is our civic and moral responsibility to extend our services to those less fortunate patients.

 

The following is a list of other efforts that Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. and our staff support and fully participate in:

Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. has won several Peoria Beautiful Awards in town.  We continue to subscribe and believe in the concept that the flowers and beautiful landscaping around our facility help to instill some thoughtfulness and beauty amidst the treatment of diseases.

 

 

    © Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. 2006, All Rights Reserved