Embargoed: 6th September 2012

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), which represents Plastic Surgeons on behalf of the Royal Colleges, has been part of The Melanoma Pathway Expert Group, commissioned by The Melanoma Taskforce, a parliamentary , since its formation in November 2011.

Professor Barry Powell, leading skin cancer Plastic Surgeon who represented BAPRAS on the Expert Group, said:

“BAPRAS has been fully involved in this evaluation and in building a vision for best practice care for melanoma patients, which is aligned with our own commitment to developing and improving the highest standards of patient care.

“Plastic surgeons continue to have a major input in the management of melanoma patients and this report represents a move forward in ensuring equality and equity of care.
“As an Association we are driving developing plastic surgery training in the UK, working to ensure plastic surgeons of the future continue specialising in skin oncology, and will continue to work with the Expert Group, advising on plastic surgery safety and care, including standard setting, ongoing education, and research into better practice.”
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For more information please contact Laura Buller on 020 7403 2230 or email baprasteam@forster.co.uk

Follow BAPRAS on Twitter at @BAPRASvoice

About BAPRAS
BAPRAS, the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, is the voice of plastic surgery in the UK. It aims to increase the understanding of the professional specialty and scope of plastic surgery, promoting innovation in teaching, learning and research.

Founded in 1946 (originally as the British Association of Plastic Surgeons), today BAPRAS has over 800 members and is the professional representative body for reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeons providing services to patients on the NHS and privately in the UK. Members of the public can find a member plastic surgeon in their area by logging on to www.bapras.org.uk. Anyone can check the GMC to find out if a surgeon is on the plastic surgery specialist register; http://www.gmc-uk.org/register/search/index.asp