Expanding Access to Dermatological Care: The GLODERM x CeraVe Access Grants

In an important step towards enhancing global health dermatology, the International Alliance for Global Health Dermatology (GLODERM) has partnered with CeraVe’s “Care for All” initiative to award $140,000 in grants to tackle the critical issue of access to dermatologic care in underserved communities. A total of seven projects are receiving funding in this 2025 collaboration aimed at improving skin health worldwide.

Spotlight on Equitable Care

These grants are designed to assist dermatologists working in resource-limited areas, addressing a fundamental challenge in dermatologic care: ensuring that every individual, regardless of their geographical location, can access necessary treatments. Each selected clinician, previously mentored through the GLODERM program, will receive $20,000 to implement projects aimed at elevating skin health within their local communities.

Principles Guiding the Grant Selection

The grant selection process is founded on several critical criteria:

• Local Partnerships: Collaboration with local organizations and individuals.
• Sustainability: Potential for lasting impact beyond the project’s duration.
• Community Embeddedness: Understanding and integration within the community.
• Dedication to Service: Commitment to improving dermatologic care for underserved populations.

Dr. Karolyn (Kari) Wanat highlights the essence of these grants: “We’re looking at how these projects can expand access to dermatology care and make a long-term difference in community health.”

Transformative Impact of Grants

The GLODERM x CeraVe Access Grants serve as more than mere financial support; they are a catalyst for change in health equity. Wanat states, “These grants are designed to enable changemakers in dermatology. It’s all about understanding community needs and fostering collaboration to create lasting solutions.”

Such initiatives not only provide immediate care but also contribute to a domino effect that enhances community health literacy and expands the dermatology workforce.

Featured Project: Dr. Cyndy Muliro in Kenya

One notable recipient of this year’s funding is Dr. Cyndy Muliro, MMED, MBChB. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, she leverages her expertise and public health advocacy to spearhead a three-pronged approach aimed at improving dermatologic access:

• Mobile Dermatology Outreach: Bringing care directly to communities.
• Community Education: Raising awareness about skin health and available treatments.
• Telemedicine Support: Providing resources for frontline health workers.

With fewer than 30 dermatology specialists serving a population of over 56 million, Muliro’s project addresses a critical gap in care delivery.

The Role of CeraVe and ILDS

The partnership between GLODERM and CeraVe marks the second year of grant distribution as part of CeraVe’s “Care for All” initiative, managed by the International Foundation for Dermatology (IFD). According to Gene Colón, Global SVP of Medical Affairs at CeraVe, this collaboration is pivotal for advancing skin health: “We are proud to support these outstanding individuals who are dedicated to improving dermatological care in their communities.”

A Global Initiative: Variety of Projects Funded

The 2025 GLODERM x CeraVe Access Grants are funding a diverse range of projects worldwide, including:

• Indonesia: Floating hospital outreach programs and primary health worker training.
• Madagascar: mHealth tools aimed at treating neglected tropical skin diseases.
• Zanzibar: Specialized care for individuals living with albinism.
• St. Lucia: Efforts focused on leprosy elimination.
• Vietnam: Remote dermatology education through ECHO initiatives.
• Tanzania: Community-integrated teledermatology services.

The Long-Term Vision for Dermatological Care

The impact of these grants extends far beyond their initial funding period. As Dr. Wanat noted, “While the grant for a year is significant, it serves as a stepping stone for future opportunities, collaborations, and community involvement.”

For more information about GLODERM and its ongoing efforts to improve skin health globally, visit GLODERM.

This initiative illustrates a vital commitment to closing the gap in access to dermatologic care, paving the way for diversified treatment options and educational resources that address the needs of underserved populations worldwide.

Visit the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) for further insights into this transformative initiative.