Neil S. Sadick, MD, FACP, FAAD, FAACS, FACPh

A colleague had this to say: “Not only does Neil have a thriving practice, but his participation in the governing bodies and organizations within several disciplines demonstrates his passion for advancing medicine. Moreover, his contribution to the education of his peers is priceless.”

Where do you see the specialty of phlebology in 5 years? 10 years?

I would see it being recognized by all physicians and patients around the world as being the primary caregivers in the management and diagnosis of venous diseases.

A decade ago, few would have foreseen the crossover in types of vein treatments being offered at other specialty practices. Where do you think the next big movement is going to be and how will it affect vein practice?

The next big movement is already occurring having more participation in more intravenous radiologist and other non traditional specialties like gynecologist involved in management of diseases.

In your opinion, which area of research is yielding the most advancement in the field?

The area of utilizing non invasive technologies such as lasers, radio frequency and catheter induced chemical ablation in the management of superficial venous incompetence.

What technological advances are contributing to the quality of vein treatment that most excite you?

Catheter-induced ablation of the great and lesser saphenous veins.

What advancements are long overdue?

Endovenous laser fibers for treatment of varicosities.

What have been the main factors contributing to the progression of venous disease over the last decade?

Obesity, high impact exercise and greater physician recognition of vein problems.

How does the current state of health insurance affect you{r practice} and what are the pitfalls?

Many patients are opting to choose insurance based physicians for treatment of their vein problems and lowering reimbursements. This also has compromised the quality of care.

With all the talk about "going green", where do you think modern medicine will contribute the most? Where do you think it will fall short?

Utilization of more natural and low energy consumption of product and technologies. Fall short - lack of reutilization of instrumentation.

You are well-known in your field of work. What is something about you that would surprise your colleagues?

Avid pen collector and surfer and run marathons

What made you decide to work in phlebology and what do you wish you had known before you did?

I was trained during my residency treating one of the past presidents of the US and learned phlebology from one of the first physicians performing sclerosants in the United States - William Foley. I wish I had known how expansive and rewarding this field would evolve to become.

If you could share one bit of advice with a rookie, what would it be?

Do whatever it takes to make the patient happy!

Who or what inspires you the most?

New challenges of learning new techniques. Being involved in new technologic research and training the youthful next generation of Phlebologists.

If you could do anything else for a living, what would it be? Why?

Baseball player. Baseball has always been a passion.