Steven E. Zimmet, MD, RVT, FACPh
A colleague had this to say: “Steve has been the leading force and visionary behind the ACP, which has resulted in the formation of the ACP Foundation, which in turn has successfully raised over $5 million to further education and research in phlebology. The recognition of phlebology as a self-designated specialty, a Board Certification process for phlebologists and obtaining AMA recognition of phlebology as a specialty are only a few of Steve’s greatest legacies – I am certain there are more to come.”
What is the biggest challenge in your work?
Dealing with the Publisher of VEIN Magazine at deadline!
Is there a particular case that stands out in your mind?
A 32 y/o male from the Phillippines contacted me via the internet. He had ulceration and was having episodes of spontaneous bleeding from varacies, due to chronic venous insufficiency. He moved to Austin for several months as he had been unable to get adequate treatment. We did saphenous ablations in both legs, with phlebectomies and foam sclerotherapy. He had terrific results and returned home. Two years later he is apparently still doing well.
Are you involved in leading or teaching educational symposiums at clinics, hospitals, universities, etc? Please share your experiences.
The majority of the educational symposiums where I have presented have been at national and international events such as AVF, AAD, ACP, German Society of Phlebology, SVS, SIR, ASDS, TCT and UIP events.
If you could share one bit of advice with a rookie, what would it be?
No one tool is adequate for most patients. A second is to learn how to do sclerotherapy well. It will be useful in virtually all patients with venous insufficiency.
What efforts have you made to foster cooperation (rather than competition) between the various venous educational organizations so that the greatest number has access to the advances in the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease?
Attend and served as faculty at other societies meetings (AAD, AVF, SIR). It’s been an honor and privilege to serve as founding chairmen of the American College of Phlebology Foundation (ACPF) and inaugural President of the American Board of Phlebology (ABPh). The mission of the ACPF is to advance the highest standard of care for patients with venous disease through investment in research and education. The ABPh was established in 2007 to improve the standards of medical practitioners and the quality of patient care related to the treatment of venous disorders
If you could do anything else for a living, what would it be?
Professional songwriter/musician, if I only had the talent.
