Featured Member of the Month (July 2022): Jay Dema

Jay Dema is a Sr. Clinical advisor for Methapharm, the new distributor for Asclera. Initially, he became a medic in the U.S. Air Force part-time, which then transformed and launched his nursing career. After graduating from North Park University in Chicago, he continued part-time as a nursing officer and retired as the Chief Nurse Executive with the rank of Major. As a civilian, he worked as a Cath Lab and sclerotherapy nurse, before venturing out into the medical device industry.  He has sold and supported devices in the vascular space with Vascular Solutions, BTG, and Boston Scientific for over 20 years.

How and why did you start practicing in the field of vein care?

I was a registered nurse in sales selling lasers for EVLT along with disposable supplies. Dr. Richard Rosenfeld (retired), a customer of mine, asked me to work for him in his clinic. He trained me how to do sclerotherapy and UGS.

When you are not at work, how do you spend your time?

I spend time with my family. We have two sons (Nick & Joe) in high school football and track. My wife and I enjoy supporting them and watching them compete. I also enjoy woodworking. In my “spare time,” I make professional-grade custom pens out of wood, acrylic, and stone. And yes, they are for sale. 😊

How long have you been a member of AVLS and why did you decide to join?

I just joined a few months ago. I recently started with Methapharm as a Sr. Clinical Advisor. Methapharm is the new distributor of Asclera as of February 2022. I joined to have more communication with the vein community and to help keep myself educated on innovative technologies, as life is dynamic and ever-changing. 

In what ways has the AVLS helped you as a vein/lymphatic care provider?

As a registered nurse and Sr. Clinical Advisor, AVLS has helped me to communicate, support, and meet the needs of my clinical customers.

Any advice for your peers new to the field?

Utilize AVLS as much as you can to help educate and train yourself and your staff. AVLS is a wealth of knowledge through its programs, conferences, and blog. Their sole purpose is to educate and keep you informed, which will benefit you and your patients.

What resources does the AVLS provide that would benefit them?

AVLS as a forum is a wonderful opportunity to exchange medical knowledge, access one-on-one, group, and online training, accredited continuing medical education (CME), or access resources to help with practice and patient management.