ASPS Surgeons Answer Call, But N.Y. Hospitals Staffed
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. - Scores of plastic surgeons from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) offered their services to assist the injured in New York in the wake of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. As generous as these offers have been, the Greater New York Hospital Association announced that the number of plastic surgeons, other medical personnel and hospital beds in the greater New York area are more than adequate to meet the needs of the injured at the current time.
New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons President William Rosenblatt, MD, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, saw first-hand the sheer numbers of volunteers on hand. "The plastic surgeons of New York responded as we hoped they would. They were there, they were willing and they were able to provide the full extent of their services to the public."
"Plastic surgeons are first and foremost physicians whose job it is to heal. We were all more than willing to do that, and we were there to do that," Dr. Rosenblatt added.
ASPS President Walter Erhardt, Jr., MD, lauded those member plastic surgeons who offered to help. "The desire, preparedness and professionalism demonstrated by our plastic surgeons at this difficult hour is impressive and stands as an example of their motivation to serve humanity."
The ASPS offers the following resources for those who would like to provide assistance to the injured during this national tragedy:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is one of the lead organizations for the ongoing relief efforts. FEMA Director Joe Allbaugh urges those willing to volunteer or make donations to call the following numbers:
VOLUNTEER MEDICAL SERVICES
1-800-801-8092
VOLUNTEER GENERAL SERVICES
1-518-431-7600
BLOOD DONATIONS
1-800-448-3543 (American Red Cross Blood Donation Hotline)
FINANCIAL DONATIONS
1-800-HELP-NOW (American Red Cross)
1-800-SAL-ARMY (The Salvation Army)
The World Trade Center Relief Fund also has been set up and is accepting donations. Make checks payable and mail to:
World Trade Center Relief Fund
P.O. Box 5028
Albany, NY 12205
About ASPS
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 7,000 physician members, the Society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises more than 94 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the Society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Contact ASPS
Media Relations | 847-228-9900 | media@plasticsurgery.org
