SVS News Briefs

Wanted: SVS-Member Marathon Runners for the 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon

The Vascular Disease Foundation (VDF) is the official charity of the 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon and has asked that SVS members who are marathon runners take part in this year's run on October 22 in Chicago. SVS is a founding member of VDF. This is a great opportunity to promote the importance of physical activity for good vascular health. Those interested in running should contact Jill Goodwin at 800-258-7188 or communications@vascularsociety.org.

Toursarkissian Is Awarded the 2006 Health Policy Scholarship

Dr. Boulos Toursarkissian has been awarded the 2006 Health Policy Scholarship, which is co-sponsored by the American College of Surgeons and the Society for Vascular Surgery.

The scholarship allows him to attend a course entitled "Leadership Program in Health Policy and Management," which will be offered by the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University, Waltham, Mass. The program was designed with surgeons in mind and is scheduled to run May 29 through June 3, 2006.

After he completes the course, Dr. Toursarkissian will spend a year as a pro tem member of the Health Policy Steering Committees of the College and SVS Clinical Practice Council, advising and assisting both as requested.

SVS Attends the American Medical Student Association Residency Fair & Specialty Showcase

SVS recently introduced the new Primary Certificate in Vascular Surgery to medical students and residents at the American Medical Student Association's Residency Fair \& Specialty Showcase. SVS member, Dr. Mark Morasch, was on hand to explain the new changes and highlight the field of vascular surgery.

SVS Receives Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative Recognition from CMS

SVS recently received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in recognition of its work, as well as that of the SVS lead representative, Dr. Clifford M. Sales, to the CMS Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative. A special thank you to all who were involved in this effort.