A model for sustainable laser tattoo removal services for adult probationers

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe a sustainable free laser tattoo removal clinic for economically disadvantaged adult probationers. Design/methodology/approach This paper describes the partnerships, methods and challenges/lessons learned from the implementation of a free monthly laser tattoo removal program for adult probationers within a medical school setting in California. Findings Possible patients are identified via a collaboration with the county’s Probation Department. Founded in 2016, this monthly program has provided tattoo removal services to >37 adult patient probationers, many of whom receive follow-up treatments. Clients seek to remove about four blue/black ink tattoos. Since its inception, 23 dermatology residents have volunteered in the program. Challenges to patients’ ongoing participation primarily pertain to scheduling issues; strategies for overcoming barriers to participation are provided. No safety concerns have emerged. Social implications Programs such as this public-private partnership may benefit probationers by eliminating financial barriers associated with tattoo removal. This model supports the training of cohorts of dermatologists seeking community service opportunities related to laser medicine. Others seeking to implement a similar program may also consider expanding treatment days/times to facilitate access for working probationers, providing enrollment options for other health and social services (e.g. public insurance, food stamp programs) and hosting a mobile onsite clinic to address clients’ physical and mental health needs. Originality/value This paper describes a unique collaboration between law enforcement and a medical school and it may assist other jurisdictions in establishing free tattoo removal programs for the benefit of probationers. The methods described overcome challenges regarding the implementation of this specialized clinical service.

Tattoo discrimination in Mexico motivates interest in tattoo removal among structurally vulnerable adults

“…We observed that participants reporting mental health challenges (i.e., depression symptoms) were more likely to report an interest in tattoo removal while recent substance users were less likely to be interested in tattoo removal. Tattoos may include images that make the individual uncomfortable or embarrassed, hinder their participation in social or economic pro-social activities, or the images may contribute to personal harm due to interpersonal violence (e.g., gang-related motifs) ( 71 ). These findings are concordant with extant studies that report that tattoos can provoke adverse mental health impacts when personal identities evolve (e.g., older age) or social affiliations change (e.g., withdrawing from gangs) ( 14 , 39 , 72 ).…”

Motivations for Seeking Laser Tattoo Removal and Perceived Outcomes as Reported by Justice Involved Adults

“…In brief, the free, voluntary tattoo removal program (i.e., UCSD Clean Slate Free Tattoo Removal Program; Ojeda et al, 2019 ) is housed in a Southern California Medical School and staffed by physicians from the Department of Dermatology. Community outreach activities are led by the first author who is based jointly in the School of Public Health and School of Medicine.…”

The Importance of Service Learning in Dermatology Residency: An Actionable Approach to Improve Resident Education and Skin Health Equity

“…12 Some dermatology residency programs treat a high percentage of medically underserved patients; others have integrated service learning into dermatology rotations, and a few programs offer community engagement-focused residency tracks. [13][14][15][16] Each dermatology program should evaluate its workforce, resources, and nearby underserved communities to strategically develop a program-specific service-learning program. Service-learning clinics often are the sole means by which patients from underserved communities receive dermatologic care.…”