NEW ORLEANS — Due to coronavirus concerns, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons on Tuesday canceled a conference in New Orleans scheduled for next week.
More than 500 people were expected to attend the ASPS Spring Meeting and Coding Workshop in New Orleans on March 12-14, a statement from the organization said.
After reviewing statistics and infection rates, the organization's executive committee unanimously agreed that the risk of infection made canceling the conference the "most responsible course of action."
"We were looking forward to another exciting meeting and seeing our colleagues from across the country and the world, but if just one person were to contract COVID-19 during travel to or participation in an ASPS meeting, it would be devastating and not worth the risk," said ASPS President Lynn Jeffers. "As physicians, it's important that we limit potential exposure to the coronavirus until it is under control. Ensuring the health and safety of our members, patients, staff and others is always our top priority."
Jeffers said in the statement that he looked forward to a resolution regarding coronavirus concerns, hoping to see his colleagues in a San Fransisco conference in October.
People should get a refund for their registration fees and reimbursements for cancelation fees related to travel and lodging.
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