American College of Phlebology Expands Identity with New Name, American Vein and Lymphatic Society

The members of the American Vein & Lymphatic Society (AVLS) have voted to change their name to the American Vein and Lymphatic Society (AVLS). The name change is a part of the Society’s mission and vision to provide advocacy efforts, research opportunities and superior education to members and the field of venous and lymphatic medicine. It is important for the identity of the society and its members to address and provide appropriate treatment to lymphatic patients, as well as venous patients. Thus, the leadership of the organization determined a name change was essential for the AVLS’ continued growth as a medical society.

In addition, the American Vein & Lymphatic Society Foundation will become the Foundation for Venous and Lymphatic Disease.

“Our goal with this name change is for our members and the medical world at large to better understand who we serve and how we will serve them,” said Dr. Marlin Schul, President of the AVLS. “We are a society, a place for venous and lymphatic healthcare professionals to gather, exchange ideas, research and learn from each other.”

While the ACP had strong recognition within the field of vein disease, outside of the field the term “phlebology” was less known. As the society worked to increase recognition within the AMA and with public and private payors, the leadership realized a switch in terminology would help our society continue to grow in these arenas.

The board of directors and other leaders spent several months discussing in depth what our name means and what elements in a name are essential. After hours of discussions, member surveys and conversations with our membership, the board of directors unanimously voted to change the name to American Vein and Lymphatic Society. The membership was informed at the 2018 ACP Annual Congress in Nashville, Tennessee and received the news with a standing ovation. The announcement was followed by a member vote that passed by an overwhelming majority.

“This is a pivotal moment in the identity of our Society,” said Dean J Bender, Executive Director of the AVLS. “We are embracing both venous and lymphatic medicine as well as expanding our influence to include not only education, but also advocacy and research in our field.”