Fall 2023 Issue of FPMA Footprints

APMA State Advocacy Forum Highlights PAGE 26

FPMA Component POWER

PAGE 24

PAGE 34

SAM 2024 Conference Information and Registration Forms

A publication of the Florida Podiatric Medical Association

PAGE 14

Vol. 76, #2, FALL 2023

Preparing for Relicensure in 2024

IT’S TIME FOR A CONVERSATION

WITH YOUR PATIENTS LEARN MORE AT JUBLIARX.COM

JUBLIA is a trademark of Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities. ©2020 Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities. JUB.0051.USA.20

CONTENTS VOL. 76, #2, FALL 2023

12 From the Editor: Exciting Events Happening for FPMA...........................5 Cary M. Zinkin, DPM

President’s Perspective: 10 Things I’ve Learned as FPMA President ................6 Alissa Zdancewicz, DPM

Message from the CEO/Executive Director:

25

Key Updates for Members ................................................8 Karen N. Lambert

Membership: Student News .................................................................... 12 Preparing for Relicensure in 2024 .............................. 14 Young Member Article: Maturing Pains. .................... 18 FPMA Component Presidents 2023 .......................... 20 Annual Election of FPMA Officers............................... 21 In Memoriam ...................................................................... 21 New MATE Training Requirement............................... 22

FPMS: 2023 FPMS Scholarship Recipients ........................... 23

Legislative Update:

FFAFS: The FPMA Initiative Is on the Move! ........................... 30

Public Affairs: FPMA Members Participate in 2023 ADA Step Out Florida Event ............................. 31

Conference News: FPMA 2023 Summer Conference Returns .............. 32

FPMA Component POWER .......................................... 24 FPMA 2023 Legislative Days at the Capitol ............ 25

APMA Update: APMA State Advocacy Forum Highlights ................ 26

Insurance Affairs: The Numbers Are Out!.................................................... 28

CONNECT WITH FPMA

Join Us for SAM 2024 ..................................................... 34 SAM 2024 Registration Forms .................................... 35

www.fpma.com Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 3

Managing Partial Foot Amputations • Limb Preservation • Gait Restoration • Propulsion with Proximal Stability

Carbon footplate

SAFO

BlueROCKER

Studies have shown destructive forces are distal to the residuum using BlueROCKER®, thereby preserving the residual foot.

Permission to reprint FPMA Footprints articles may be obtained by contacting the editor.

Exciting Events Happening for FPMA

OFFICERS Alissa B. Zdancewicz, DPM President Larissa M. Schmidt, DPM President-Elect David M. Schweibish, DPM Vice President Adriana P. Strimbu, DPM Treasurer

FROM THE EDITOR

FPMA Footprints is published by The Florida Podiatric Medical Association 3375-F Capital Cir. NE, Ste. 201 Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (800) 277-3338 Fax: (850) 681-0899 Website: www.fpma.com

By Cary M. Zinkin, DPM

I trust that everyone made it through the brutally hot summer and enjoyed family vacations as well as the beautiful Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs during the FPMA 2023 Summer Conference. This resort is a favorite among our members, and the FPMA Convention Committee has signed a contract to continue to have our summer conference at that location.

Liana G. Seldin, DPM Secretary STAFF Karen N. Lambert CEO/Executive Director Becky Reese Public Affairs/Website Coordinator Gin Grand Membership Coordinator Andy Jean-Baptiste Communications Coordinator Dee Muller Administrative Manager

Published October 2023 • Volume 76 Issue 2 • 2023

EDITOR Cary M. Zinkin, DPM The recommendation of any benefits, products, or services to our membership does not constitute a warrantee by the Florida Podiatric Medical Association, Inc., or the Florida Podiatric Medical Society, Inc. Each member must decide for himself or herself as to the value and benefit of any product purchased. The Florida Podiatric Medical Association, Inc., or the Florida Podiatric Medical Society, Inc., is not liable for any defects or failure of any benefit, product, or service purchased by any member.

To all of those who suffered damage caused by Hurricane Idalia, we wish you all well in the future as you rebuild your homes and businesses.

Once again, FPMA brings you this print version of FPMA Footprints magazine for your enjoyment. This quality publication is provided for you, our members, who have indicated you like to see the wonderful pictures and read stories about the happenings in our association as well as our state.

As you know, our more immediate communications come via blast emails and e-newsletters. I hope you all read the short, concise important information that is contained in these communications to keep up with all that is going on in your association.

SAM 2024 is almost upon us, and the conference will once again take place at the Hyatt Regency in Orlando during January 24-28, 2024. Information regarding conference registration has

already been sent out, and members will continue to be reminded to register and secure hotel rooms ASAP. Through the difficult times of COVID-19 continuing to today, the FPMA SAM conference has continued to grow, bringing you firstclass, world-renowned lecturers for our physicians and assistants. Don’t forget to check out the SAM website at www. fpmasamconference.com in the coming months to keep up with all of the activities taking place during the conference.

Everything you need to have a successful practice can be accessed via the FPMA website at www.fpma.com and through our various communications to members.

Your membership is valuable to the success of the podiatric profession in Florida and FPMA staff strive to keep you informed.

Please enjoy this magazine, skillfully crafted by Becky Reese in our Tallahassee office.

I’m looking forward to seeing you all at the Hyatt in January!

FPMA Footprints is published by Innovative Publishing. Direct all inquiries to Aran Jackson at (844) 423-7272.

10629 Henning Way, Suite 8 Louisville, KY 40241 (844) 423-7272 www.innovativepublishing.com

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 5

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

10 Things I’ve Learned as FPMA President “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

-Benjamin Franklin This is the perfect quote for what you are about to read. My involvement in FPMA has been a journey in my personal and professional growth. I am going to be somewhat candid in this article, so please read this with an open heart and open mind.

By Alissa Zdancewicz, DPM

Here is my list of the top 10 things I’ve learned during my year as president of FPMA.

1.

A smile can be very powerful.

Let me be more specific: A genuine smile can be very powerful for yourself and those around you. I have known this for years, but in this position, one has several opportunities to make a positive impression.

A genuine grin can show that you are relaxed and enjoying yourself. Not only can your smile put those around you at ease, but research shows that the mere act of smiling can make you happier. When you are happy, you are more likely to feel good about yourself and your situation. This works very well to help you feel more confident in social situations, like public speaking or meeting people in leadership positions. Whether it is meeting a prospective podiatry student or a member of Congress, I will always have a smile on my face.

2.

Don’t be intimidated by leadership.

When I was president of the FPMA Manasota Component and attended my first FPMA Executive Board Meeting, I was very quiet. I did not speak to many people and simply observed the process. I do not recall if I even spoke to Dr. Mark Lambert, FPMA president at that time.

At the second meeting, I listened to Dr. Joe Strickland talk about meeting with Florida

6 |

FPMA Footprints

legislators. He said, “They are regular people just like you and me. You could meet them for a cup of coffee.” I could not help but think if he was serious. I would be too intimidated to talk to someone in such a powerful position.

During the next meeting, I was in the lunch line next to Dr. Dennis Frisch. I recognized him from being on stage at every conference, serving as a former FPMA president and, at the time, a member of the APMA Board of Trustees, poised to be the next president of APMA. I took a deep breath, smiled and introduced myself. “I know who you are,” he said with a nod and a slight grin. After that I think we talked about the dessert.

Since then, I have met with leaders of various community organizations, APMA and government officials. My point is, don’t be intimidated by people in leadership positions. They really are just regular people.

Take a deep breath, smile, and when all else fails, talk about the food.

3.

It’s never too late to grow as a person.

This year has not been all “wine and roses.” Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my fair share of cabernet and sauvignon blanc this year, as well as bouquets from well-wishers. But I have not accomplished as much as I had hoped. Having set some

lofty goals for myself and the association this year, I ultimately learned there are only so many hours in a day. In addition, I have misspoken at times. Recently, information was given to me, and I passed it on to a member without fully vetting it myself. It turned out the information was incorrect.

That member had reached out to me, trusting me, and I had let them down. I could only be completely transparent and offer a sincere apology.

Setting attainable goals, managing personal and professional time, as well as admitting to one’s mistakes and learning from them are things we all need to be mindful of.

4.

Lobbyists are worth their weight in gold!

Lobbyists are behind the scenes singing our praises and making sure podiatry is included in key health care legislation in Florida. We are fortunate to have two official lobbyists, Chris Hansen and Jason Winn, as well as CEO Karen Lambert carrying lobbying credentials at the Florida Capitol. For our Advocacy on the Road program, Chris Hansen has been working with component leaders and inviting Florida legislators to attend FPMA component meetings. This has been a unique opportunity for podiatrists and state legislators to meet in an intimate setting.

As many of you know, in April 2023 a group of our members and two student doctors from Barry University visited Tallahassee for our Legislative Day at the Capitol. Mr. Hansen and his team had set up a series of meetings with Florida State Legislators on both the House and Senate sides. Our very busy and productive day was documented by a film crew. (This must-see video is available for viewing on the FPMA website Advocacy page.)

I recently attended the APMA Center for Professional Advocacy meeting in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Other representatives from FPMA included CEO Karen Lambert, Dr. Andre Williams and Dr. David Schweibish. As a part of FPMA’s presentation, the FPMA Legislative Day video was shown to all of the attendees. We received several compliments from leaders of APMA as well as other state components.

Some of the other states do not even have one lobbyist, and as a result their leaders get very limited face-to-face contact with state government officials. Consequently, these states struggle with recognition in health care bills and scope laws.

If you see one of our lobbyists, please thank them for all of their hard work on behalf of FPMA.

5.

Members take FPMA for granted.

That’s right; I said it. Of course, if you’re reading this, you are likely a member who is actively engaged in the association, and for that, please accept a heartfelt thank you. However, many of you know to whom I am referring. Some members go to their offices every day with a “punch the clock” mindset. They don’t read FPMA “Insurance Alert” emails yet complain about denials.

They don’t come to component or state meetings yet call our headquarters asking questions about credits and licensure requirements. They complain about the cost of association dues, despite the fact that they have not been raised in over 25 years. I see this as an opportunity for those members who are more involved to have discussions with our less-active members. Invite them to a component meeting or forward a particularly important email to them.

6.

FPMA’s Summer Conference in Bonita Springs is the best in the country.

Even before my presidency, I had attended a lot of meetings around the country. I must say that FPMA’s Summer Conference is, hands down, the best in the USA! In 2005, I went to a conference titled Dermatology for Non-Dermatologists, which was held in Key West. Not only did I learn a lot, but I had a great time. That was the first conference I had ever attended in which lectures were scheduled in the morning and attendees had their afternoons free. I love how the FPMA Convention Committee has mirrored that type of program. The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point is one of my and my family’s favorite resorts. FPMA has secured that location until 2026, and I have already put the dates on my calendar (and highly recommend you do the same). Conference information is available on the FPMA website, which brings me to…

7.

FPMA’s website is underutilized by our members.

A few years ago, a major overhaul of the FPMA website (located at www.fpma.com) took place to make it more user-friendly for our members. FPMA staff continues to work to improve the website and add relevant content on a regular basis. Members can go to the FPMA website to find future dates of SAM and Summer Conferences, as well as links to CE Broker courses and Corporate Affinity Partners. But did you know there is an online insurance form available to members for insurance concerns? The FPMA Insurance Complaint Form includes over 20 concerns, ranging from denial of payment after pre-authorization to inappropriate modification of originally submitted CPT code. Once completed, that form is submitted to Dr. Mark Block, chair of the FPMA Committee on Insurance Affairs, for evaluation and assistance in the matter. This is just one example of the valuable information currently available on the FPMA website; one simply needs to look for it.

8.

Delegating is a girl’s best friend.

I have always had the mindset that if you want something done right, you have

to do it yourself. However, in my position as FPMA president, that would have been nearly impossible. I am grateful to have had the assistance of the FPMA Executive Committee, committee chairs, committee members, component presidents, lobbyists and staff this year. I have taken this lesson further by assigning my private office staff more specific duties. In addition, in my personal life, I do not hesitate to ask for or accept help. So, Marilyn Monroe can keep her diamonds; I will gladly take a helping hand.

9.

Karen Lambert is awesome.

You have heard it before, and I’ll say it again: Our CEO, Karen Lambert, is one of the most dedicated, organized, passionate leaders our association could ever ask for.

That is why she was the recipient of the 2023 President’s Award! With the help of our amazing FPMA staff, Karen is able to spin multiple plates, like someone you see during a Ringling Brothers Circus show. She has been working with several resources in Tallahassee, including the Department of Health, on our Diabetic Shoe Awareness Initiative. This is an unprecedented endeavor in which diabetic shoes will be distributed to Floridians living in rural areas.

Thank you, Karen, for your commitment to the association.

10.

Florida is the best state component of APMA. FPMA has and will continue to be a leader among the APMA state components. The association has highly intelligent and caring leaders, as well as emerging leaders. We also have the best conferences in the profession. I sincerely hope if you are not already involved with an FPMA component or committee that you find out how you can contribute your unique talents and skills to FPMA. Thank you for letting me share my experiences from this past year. Some things I learned, others I knew, but this experience has reinforced my beliefs. Hopefully, you recognize a bit of yourself somewhere in this article. I would also like to thank all of the members of FPMA for the opportunity to serve as your president.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 7

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO/ED

Key Updates for Members As we enjoy fall, I wanted to take this opportunity to provide FPMA membership with a brief summary of current and recent events and projects.

By Karen N. Lambert

APMA State Advocacy Forum The weekend of August 25-26, 2023, FPMA leaders Dr. Alissa Zdancewicz (FPMA president), Dr. David Schweibish (FPMA vice president and young practitioner representative), Dr. Andre Williams (co-chair of the FPMA Government & Legislative Committee), and I attended the APMA State Advocacy Forum in Albuquerque, New Mexico, along with leadership from 25 other state components.

FPMA Key Legislative Contact ‘Buddy System’ If you are interested in finding out more about the FPMA Key Legislative Contact “Buddy System,” please contact FPMA headquarters or visit the FPMA website Advocacy page at www.fpma.com/advocacy.php.

Coordinated by APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA), the State Advocacy Forum is a biennial conference that provides an opportunity for state association leaders and representatives to discuss ongoing state legislative issues.

Issues discussed at the 2023 State Advocacy Forum included: • Grassroots Advocacy – Maximizing Funds in a Budget-Tight Environment • Medicaid and Podiatric Physicians (Wyoming Case Study) • Certifying Boards and Physician Parity • Engaging Young Physicians in Advocacy Efforts • APMA Legislative Update • Licensing Boards and State Component Collaboration • Physician Extenders • Modernizing Podiatric Practice Laws (Alabama, Iowa, Mississippi and South Carolina) The discussion was fruitful. If anything, it demonstrated how well the Florida Podiatric Medical Association is situated, as we enjoy one of the broadest scopes of practice in the country, envied by many other state components.

8 |

FPMA Footprints

Of course, none of this would be feasible without the support of FPMA members, who generously provide PAC donations annually. Being a smaller profession (comparatively speaking), every dollar matters.

FPMA has the financial means to afford not one but two excellent lobbyists to vigilantly monitor the state legislative process and alert FPMA and its members concerning upcoming legislation. FPMA lobbyists work hard to protect the podiatric profession in Florida and meet weekly with representatives of the Florida Medical Association (FMA) and the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA).

FPMA is active legislatively at the grassroots level. FPMA component meetings routinely welcome state representatives and help educate our elected officials on matters of importance to the practice of podiatry in Florida. On a biennial basis, FPMA hosts a Meet the Candidates Forum to encourage robust discussion with both federal and state elected officials.

Our grassroots advocacy would also not be possible without the efforts of our members who are Key Legislative Contacts. If you are interested in finding out more about the FPMA Key Legislative Contact “Buddy System,” please contact FPMA headquarters or visit the FPMA website Advocacy page at www.fpma.com/ advocacy.php.

Statewide Diabetic Shoe Distribution During the recent 2023 Legislative Session, the Florida Podiatric Medical Society (FPMS) submitted an appropriations request to the Florida Senate and House of Representatives for the purpose of establishing and funding a statewide diabetic shoe awareness program. The primary goal of the initiative is to increase awareness of diabetic foot disease and offer solutions to Floridians in underserved and rural

counties. The request was sponsored by Sen. Corey Simon and Rep. Meloney Bell and was ultimately approved. FPMS was awarded $250,000 to fund the project.

In conjunction with the Florida Department of Health, FPMS was able to identify those qualifying counties in which diabetic shoes are to be distributed.

Through the diligent work of FPMA’s lobbyists, and with abiding support from the FPMA Executive Committee, FPMA Executive Board and FPMS Board of Directors, FPMS will strive to raise awareness across the Sunshine State of the importance of seeing a podiatric physician for proper diagnosis and regular care of the lower extremity.

This project is required to conclude

by June 30, 2024. Should you or fellow podiatrists wish to assist with the distribution of diabetic shoes, please contact me at the FPMA office.

Coming Soon to FPMA Members FPMA plans to partner with YM Careers to establish a comprehensive Career Center, which will be a valuable resource and top destination for job-seeking members as well as the employer members we serve. The new FPMA Career Center is intended to be a place for securing valuable career opportunities and engaging qualified candidates. Rollout of this new member benefit is anticipated to take place by mid to late November. FPMA members will have the opportunity to post to the site on a complimentary basis.

As a means of connecting with FPMA members in a more meaningful way, and on devices that are most frequently used, FPMA will soon be launching a new mobile app. We anticipate the app will offer a direct means of distributing information to our members (e.g., push notifications, in-app newsfeeds, event reminders, discussion groups and more). The app will be essential to those attending SAM 2024, particularly for course attendance verification. We anticipate launching the new mobile app

in advance of the SAM 2024 conference, so please stand by for updates.

website MATE Training Requirement page accessible via the Education tab.

FPMA Insurance Committee FPMA represents its members on matters of reimbursement by health insurance carriers and federal and state intermediaries through the efforts of its Insurance Committee. This committee works diligently to ensure equitable handling and full recognition of podiatric treatment. Timely updates to FPMA members on important insurance matters (in the form of alerts and insurance reports) are available on the FPMA website Insurance News/Medicare Updates page, available under the DPM Resources tab. Members can access this page by logging in to the FPMA website.

New Health Care Rate Schedule Please be advised that the OPEIU (Office and Professional Employees International Union)/GUILD 45 has announced new health care rate schedules effective as of September 1, 2023. This will affect a significant number of FPMA members, and we want you to be informed.

DEA Training Course for Podiatric Physicians Now Available On December 29, 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 enacted a new one-time eight-hour training requirement for all Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-registered practitioners on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders. Beginning on June 27, 2023, practitioners are required to check a box on their online DEA registration form — regardless of whether a registrant is completing their initial registration application or renewing their registration — affirming that they have completed the new MATE (Medication Access and Training Expansion Act) requirement. The deadline for satisfying this new training requirement is the date of a practitioner’s next scheduled DEA registration submission on or after June 27, 2023. This one-time training requirement will not be a part of future registration renewals.

A six-hour DEA course approved for podiatric physicians licensed in the state of Florida is now available on the CE Broker website. The course is approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine and provided by the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA). For more information, please visit the FPMA

FPMA members may secure health insurance plans through an agreement OPEIU entered with the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Plan. The OPEIU has contracted with Central Data Services (CDS) to assist with the enrollment for all OPEIU Local (GUILD 45) members. CDS has set up a dedicated team to facilitate enrollment into the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Plan and handle billing inquiries or any other assistance members may require. The dedicated telephone line is 1-877-5788710 or FPMA members can contact them via email at opeiu@cdsadmin.com.

Response from FPMA members currently enrolled in the OPEIU Local (GUILD 45) member plans has been overwhelmingly positive. These plans have saved FPMA members substantially on their premiums, while, at the same time, increasing their coverage and decreasing their deductibles.

If you are not currently enrolled and would like to take advantage of this option, please visit the FPMA website OPEIU Local (GUILD 45) Health Care Plans page (located under the DPM Resources tab) to access health plan options, rates and the plan enrollment form.

In closing, I want to thank each of you for your membership in FPMA. FPMA leadership and staff remain available and dedicated to serving you each day with the same commitment and values you have come to know and expect. We are grateful for the opportunity.

If I may be of service to you, please contact me directly at klambert@fpma.com or in the FPMA office at 850-224-4085, ext. 202.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 9

Giving You An Edge in the Fight Against Disease

Our dedicated team offers 24-48 hour turnaround time for routine pathology cases.

We offer mycology services and web-based reporting.

When you call our lab, one of our customer service representatives will answer the phone.

These are just some of the ways we work to provide our clients with the highest level of care for their patients without compromise!

Contact us at 954-977-7959 or visit our website and read testimonials at lauderdalepathology.com

Need A Digital Tune-Up? A Bad Online Web Presence Costs You New Patients!

Our System Works.

Podiatry Content Connection Works Only With Podiatrists!  Customized Website Design  Weekly Blogs & Articles  Social Media Marketing  Reputation Management

 Directory Optimization  Call-To-Action Spot Campaigns  Podiatric Video Library  HIPAA-Compliant Digital Intake Form

Visit Us Online at www.BestPodiatristMarketing.com 10 |

FPMA Footprints

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE DIGITAL TUNE-UP SESSION

(917) 572-5088

THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT

The CORE Group A Strategic Approach to Selecting and Implementing Ancillary Services providing a trusted, one-stop shopping service to save your time, energy, and money in this process.

When it comes to exploring ancillary services to help expand your practice offerings and drive revenue growth — this can be a very challenging and daunting task. You may have a long list of questions that need answering, including the following…

The CORE Group “scours the countryside” — as President Kevin Danylchuk likes to say — searching for innovative programs that are good for patient outcomes, drive significant revenue/profit for podiatrists, and tend to be “under-promoted” so many podiatrists could be unaware of the opportunities that we bring forth. The CORE Group name is derived from an acronym standing for “Clinical Outcomes + Revenue Enhancement.”

• • • •

The CORE Group currently partners with six companies that have been fully vetted to provide the “best-in-class” service offering for podiatrists.

• •

What ancillaries are even out there?

Will they work in Florida?

Are they practical for my situation?

What will be the impact on my staffing and day-to-day operations?

What kind of revenue and profit will they drive for my practice?

What is the risk of reimbursement getting cut or eliminated completely in the future?

Fortunately, you can turn to The CORE Group as a partner to help you not only select the best ancillary programs for your practice — but we are able to execute these programs directly with you

In this way — we are in the same boat as the podiatry practices — we want to work with the best overall company providing a given service because we are ACTIVELY INVOLVED in executing the program on the podiatrists behalf. Kevin continues, “This really sets us apart from everyday consultants — we both consult AND execute the program so it is in our best interests to select the best overall partners to avoid problems down the road.”

Kevin Danylchuk President & General Manager Call/Text: (201) 783-9812 Fax: (888) 614-6260 kdanylchuk@vanguardpharma.com www.coregroupmedical.com www.vanguardpharma.com

When asked the best part of his job, Kevin without hesitation states: When we are able to bring in multiple revenuegenerating programs to a given practice — this means the practice has come to know us and trust us to deliver for them.

When asked about the biggest frustration of his job, Kevin comments, “No doubt it’s when I encounter a practice that has selected a competing program that is NOT working out for them, has many problems etc. … and once I learn about the issues and inform them of the way that we operate to avoid these issues, I always get the ‘buyers remorse V8 forehead slap’ — the ‘Oh, I should have spoken to The CORE Group first!’”

The CORE Group’s most popular programs for Florida podiatrists include in-office Rx medication dispensing, in-office PCR lab testing, a variety of products for wound management, and several surgical solutions including an innovative new bone void filler for fusion surgeries. See our ad on the back cover for more info.

To contact Kevin directly about the ancillaries that will work for your practice, feel free to call or text him anytime at (201) 783-9812.

Our Services • In-office PCR Lab Program • New Bone Graft: The most important bone void filler • In-office Rx Dispensing Program • Wharton’s Jelly for Connective to launch in 20 years Tissue Disorders (cash pay)

MEMBERSHIP

STUDENT NEWS

FPMA Provides Presentation and Lunch for BUSPM New Student Orientation Attendees FPMA Treasurer and Public Affairs Committee Co-Chair Adriana Strimbu, DPM, assisted by FPMA member Nicholas Coretti, DPM, provided a PowerPoint presentation about FPMA membership to new students attending the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine (BUSPM) New Student Orientation on August 24, 2023. A complimentary lunch was also provided on behalf of FPMA. New podiatric students were encouraged to sign up for complimentary FPMA student membership at the end of the program.

STUDENT NEWS

FPMA Provides Watkins Manuals to BUSPM Class of 2025 The Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Class of 2025 Rite of Passage Ceremony took place on September 1, 2023, with representatives of FPMA in attendance. This special occasion marks podiatric students’ transition from classrooms to the clinical portion of their education.

FPMA continued the tradition of providing these students with the Watkins’ Manual of Foot and Ankle Surgery as a gift from the association. This manual provides quick access to essential information on anatomy, pharmacology, microbiology, disease prevention and management of foot and ankle disorders.

FPMA is proud to support students of podiatric medicine. Any podiatric student matriculating at the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine is eligible for a complimentary FPMA Student Membership.

12 |

FPMA Footprints

FPMA President-Elect Larissa M. Schmidt, DPM, (right) presented the FPMA Dr. Harvey Kopelman Scholarship to Ismael Grau (left) during the 2023 BUSPM Rite of Passage Ceremony. This scholarship is presented to a second-year podiatric student who has exhibited leadership among his/her colleagues. BELOW: BUSPM Class of 2025.

MEMBERSHIP

STUDENT NEWS

Letter from 2023 Dr. Harvey Kopelman Award Recipient I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the honor of being selected as the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Harvey Kopelman Award by the Florida Podiatric Medical Association. This recognition means the world to me, and I am truly humbled by this prestigious acknowledgment.

Receiving the Dr. Harvey Kopelman Award is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the collective efforts and dedication of everyone at the Florida Podiatric Medical Association. I am profoundly grateful to you, the board, and the entire organization for bestowing this honor upon me.

By Ismael Grau

Dr. Harvey Kopelman’s legacy of excellence, compassion and dedication to the field of podiatry is an inspiration to us all. I am deeply honored to be associated with an award that bears his name, and I am committed to upholding the high standards and values that this award represents.

I want to extend my gratitude to you personally for your leadership and vision, which have undoubtedly contributed to the growth and success of our association.

Your unwavering support and commitment to the podiatric community have made a lasting impact, and I am proud to be a part of this remarkable organization.

I look forward to continuing to serve the Florida Podiatric Medical Association and the podiatric community with dedication and enthusiasm. This award has further fueled my passion for our field, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Once again, thank you for this incredible honor and for your leadership, which has been instrumental in shaping our association into what it is today. I am deeply appreciative of your support and the recognition of my contributions to the field.

All the best, Ismael Grau, MBS Class of 2025 President Mind & Sole Association Vice President PodSkills Secretary & Treasurer 18th Annual Residency Fair Committee Liaison DPM Candidate | Class of 2025 Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 13

MEMBERSHIP

Preparing for Relicensure in 2024

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

The current biennium for podiatric physicians (and podiatric X-ray assistants) licensed in the state of Florida runs from April 1, 2022-March 31, 2024, (current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024). All Florida-licensed podiatric physicians who seek to renew the active status of their licensure must demonstrate that they have completed, during the previous two years (biennium), all of their continuing education

requirements. See the chart at the end of this article for detailed information and a breakdown of the 40 hours required.

All of the actively licensed podiatric physicians must obtain continuing education that contributes to the reduction of risk in the practice of podiatric medicine and the advancement, extension or enhancement of professional skill and knowledge in the field of

podiatric medicine and the licensee’s understanding of the regulatory law and rules that govern the practice of podiatric medicine. The continuing education that contributes to the advancement, extension or enhancement of professional skill and knowledge in the field of podiatric medicine must focus on subjects that are primarily scientific in nature and of significant benefit to the podiatric physician on a post-graduate level.

currently licensed podiatric physician in the state of Florida and are seeking relicensure.

• Click on the “First Biennium Renewal for Podiatric Physicians” link under the Education tab at the top of the FPMA website if you are a recently (within the past 24 months) licensed podiatric physician seeking relicensure.

Requirements for Relicensure Depend on Your Current Status The FPMA website (www.fpma.com) provides members with information about the types of courses required for Florida relicensure, depending on their current status: • Click on the “Current Biennium Information” link under the Education tab at the top of the FPMA website if you are a 14 |

FPMA Footprints

Important Information About Taking Courses to Fulfill Relicensure Requirements There seems to be a lot of confusion concerning which types of courses count toward relicensure of podiatric physicians in the state of Florida. Here is what you need to know: • Within each license renewal biennium, a licensed podiatric physician must complete a minimum of 32 hours via live in-person or live interactive virtual events of professional continuing education. This means that the course is taken in real time, with a live person teaching the course, either online or in person. Attendees should have the opportunity to interact with the instructor and get their questions answered by the instructor in real time.

• A maximum of eight (8) hours of continuing professional education may be earned from courses involving home study or anytime courses. These types of courses do NOT have a live instructor and can be completed by a Podiatric Physician at their leisure. For these types of courses, the Podiatric Physician is also required to successfully pass an exam on the course material in order to earn CECH for completing the course.

Choose Your Continuing Education Courses Wisely (Caveat Emptor!)

Florida-licensed podiatric physicians seeking continuing education courses need to be aware that not all of the courses offered will be accepted for Florida podiatric physician relicensure purposes.

• FPMA advises members to avoid attending continuing education courses required for licensure/relicensure/ MATE training that are not offered by a statewide professional association of physicians accredited to provide educational activities and are not approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine.

It is best to check CE Broker for course approval by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine prior to registering and taking a course for continuing education. You can do this by accessing the “Find courses” feature at the top of the CE Broker website at www.CEBroker.com and selecting your location, profession and the type of course you are seeking. The course description should indicate the course is approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine for Podiatric Physicians (see graphic above).

• FPMA submits CECH for all Florida-licensed conference attendees (both podiatric physicians and podiatric X-ray assistants) to CE Broker on their behalf once a conference is over and FPMA has received all conference registration fees.

• Course providers sometimes submit Florida Podiatric Physician continuing education contact hours (CECH) earned by attending their courses to CE Broker on an attendee’s behalf; however, this is not always the case.

If CECH earned by attending a course is not reported to an attendee’s CE Broker account, that individual is responsible for entering the information into their own

CE Broker account. Podiatric physicians encountering difficulties entering this information can click on the “Help” link available at the bottom of the CE Broker website. FPMA cannot assist members with problems encountered on the CE Broker website.

• FPMA is not responsible for either reporting or keeping a record of the CECH members earn from other course providers, nor is FPMA responsible for dealing with other course providers on members’ behalf. If a podiatric physician attended a course and did not receive CECH in their CE Broker account for attending that course, it is up to the podiatric physician to either contact the course provider or enter the information themselves.

• The Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA) is not responsible for making decisions on whether courses are acceptable for licensure/relicensure of Podiatric Physicians licensed in the state of Florida. This is the role of the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine. People often confuse the roles of these two organizations.

The Florida Podiatric Medical Association’s role is to provide courses approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine for podiatric physicians and podiatric X-ray assistants. FPMA is in no way involved in the podiatric physician/podiatric X-ray assistant licensing process.

The role of the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine is clearly stated on the home page of their website: “The Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine was established to ensure that every podiatric physician practicing in this state meets minimum requirements for safe practice. The Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine through efficient and dedicated organization, will license, monitor, discipline, educate, and when appropriate, rehabilitate practitioners to assure their competence in the service of the people of Florida.”

CECH Can Be Earned in a Variety of Ways Although attending courses live and/or online is one way for podiatric physicians licensed in Florida to earn CECH, there are actually many ways, including: • Up to four (4) hours per year, total of eight (8) hours per biennium is allowed for Hospital Scientific Programs.

Continued on next page

MORE ONLINE Information about podiatric physician initial licensure/relicensure requirements, fees, etc. is available on the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine website at https://floridaspodiatricmedicine.gov/licensing/podiatric-physician.

Information about certified podiatric x-ray assistant initial licensure/relicensure requirements, fees, etc. is available on the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine website at https://floridaspodiatricmedicine.gov/licensing/ certified-podiatric-x-ray-assistant.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 15

E-LICENSING:

MEMBERSHIP

A New Licensing Experience for Health Care Practitioners in Florida

The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) Division of Medical Quality Assurance (MQA) is pleased to announce a new licensing experience for health care practitioners. Beginning mid-2023, electronic licenses (e-license) will replace the current practice of printing and mailing paper-based licenses. For each profession regulated by MQA, the transition to paperless licensing means seamlessly retrieving licenses through the MQA Online Services Portal within two business days of an approved application.

The electronic process will allow practitioners to obtain newly issued or newly renewed licenses free of charge and seven to 10 days earlier than previously mailed versions. The e-licenses include QR codes that increase the information security of licenses and enables users, such as employers and consumers, to access and verify credentials of health care practitioners.

Combining the growing health care workforce and use of mobile devices, it is critical that MQA continues to develop innovative strategies to meet the needs of practitioners and streamline access to key documents that provide credibility to entering the workforce.

E-licensing demonstrates the commitment of the Department to expedite licensure and verification processes so that health care practitioners can get to work quickly and continue working through successful licensure renewal cycles without interruption.

Licensed health care practitioners are encouraged to visit the MQA Online Services Portal (https://mqa-vo.doh. state.fl.us/datamart/voservicesportal) to ensure contact information is updated and accurately displayed within their account.

To learn more, please visit the e-license Frequently Asked Questions page (www.flhealthsource.gov/ electronic-licensing/faqs) or ask the MQA Virtual Agent, ELI, by visiting www.flhealthsource.gov/eli.

Source: www.flhealthsource.gov/electronic-licensing

16 |

FPMA Footprints

• Podiatric physicians enrolled in hospital-sponsored residency programs for a year may be credited with 15 hours of continuing education for each of no more than two (2) years.

• Up to four (4) hours per year, total of eight (8) hours per biennium is allowed for attending FPMA Component Meetings (attending an FPMA component meeting earns a maximum of 1.0 Scientific CECH per meeting). In order for FPMA members to receive CECH via local component meeting attendance, FPMA component presidents must submit a roster containing component meeting attendee names, signatures and PO numbers to the FPMA office. Once received, FPMA staff submits this information to CE Broker on members’ behalf.

• For active licensees in good standing, up to 10 hours of pro bono service may be counted toward the required continuing education for the biennium in which the service was provided.

For additional information about ways to earn CECH, see Rule 64B18-17.001 (“Continuing Education Required for License Renewal”) and Rule 64B18-17.003 (“Continuing Education Programs Not Requiring Pre-Approval from the Board”) of the Florida Administrative Code.

Don’t Forget About Your X-Ray Assistants!

Podiatric X-ray assistants are on the same biennial (two-year) renewal cycle as podiatric physicians in the state of Florida.

During each biennium, certified podiatric X-ray assistants must obtain eight (8) hours of continuing education contact hours (CECH), which includes both a six-hour X-ray assistant program offered by FPMA and a two-hour medical errors course approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine in order to renew their licenses. In order to become initially licensed, X-ray assistants must earn the same number of CECH described above as well as successfully complete a written course exam provided by FPMA during the X-Ray Assistant program at SAM or the FPMA Summer Conference.

Here is additional information you need to know: • Once a certified podiatric X-ray assistant has successfully completed the X-ray assistant program and medical errors course, it is their responsibility to renew their license. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is the abiding entity that issues Certified Podiatric X-ray Assistant licenses, which begin with “PXA.” • FPMA’s role is to provide the course for initial licensure/ recertification of podiatric X-ray assistants and the exam for initial certification. FPMA is in no way involved in the Certified Podiatric X-Ray Assistant licensing process.

• If you have any questions concerning podiatric X-ray assistant licensure/recertification, please contact the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine Customer Contact Center at 850-488-0595.

For more information about podiatric X-ray assistant initial licensure/recertification, go to the FPMA website “X-Ray Assistant Initial Licensure” page or the “X-Ray Assistant Recertification” page. Both pages are accessible via links under the Education tab at the top of the FPMA website.

The Role of CE Broker in the Podiatric Licensing Process Course completions submitted to CE Broker are used to determine that licensees (both podiatric physicians and podiatric X-ray assistants) have met their continuing education requirements at the end of the effective license renewal period.

Important information to be aware of: • It is highly recommended that FPMA members go to the CE Broker website at www.cebroker.com, log into their account (or establish an account if they have not already done so) and make sure their CECH credits have been properly recorded prior to going through the relicensure process. If CECH information has not been recorded in the account, the individual will need to enter that information into their CE Broker account themselves.

Please be aware that FPMA reports CECH to CE Broker on behalf of FPMA conference attendees so you will not have to enter that information.

• Please note that every Florida-licensed podiatric physician and podiatric X-ray assistant can establish a Basic CE Broker account at no charge. There are two additional types of CE Broker accounts available (for an additional fee): the CE Broker Professional account and

the CE Broker Concierge account. To find out about the services provided by each type of CE Broker account, go to www.cebroker.com/fl/plans.

• The Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine mails out renewal applications to both podiatric physicians and certified podiatric X-ray assistants prior to the end of each biennium.

As such, licensed podiatric physicians and certified podiatric X-ray assistants need to make sure their current mailing address is on file. If you have recently had a change of address, log in to your MQA Online Services Portal account at www.flhealthsource.gov, click on the “Licensee/ Provider Services” link at the top of the website and select “Manage Your License” from the pulldown menu.

• If a Florida licensee’s name has changed (due to marriage, divorce, etc.), it is imperative that this information be provided to the Florida Department of Health, Division of Medical Quality Assurance, prior to relicensure in order to avoid confusion and a possible delay in renewal of a license. For more information, go to https:// floridaspodiatricmedicine.gov/help-center/how-do-ichange-my-name-2.

Be sure you and your X-Ray Assistant(s) are prepared in advance to fulfill your continuing education requirements to avoid your licenses being placed in delinquent status in 2024!

Continuing Education Requirements (total of 40 required each biennium) The Current Biennium runs from April 1, 2022-March 31, 2024

Note: Podiatric Physicians initially licensed and renewing a license for the first time have different continuing education requirements.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 17

MEMBERSHIP

MATURING PAINS: Bridging the Gap from Training to Practice

By Cody J. Togher, DPM

The frustrations of change, needing to adapt and learning from failure are encountered by everyone at some point as they transition from one stage of life into another.

As physicians, we have all encountered these maturing pains periodically as we have progressed through high school, college, professional school, residency/fellowship and eventually into practice as an attending physician. You can call it recency bias, but after completing my first year in private practice, I can say with confidence that none of these periods of change were accompanied with as little guidance and information to succeed as did the transition from training into practice.

An entire discussion can be had about the moment when the weight of reality sets in, as a first-year physician comes to realize the impact of their decisions on each patient. Despite this, it was not the medical or surgical decision making I found to be the root of my frequent frustrations but the behind-the-scenes decisions and tedious details that would often need to be addressed. The following advice is directed toward graduating residents and first-year providers as they transition out of their training experiences and settle into their own practices.

Your Patient Needs Surgery …

Now What?

While the process of surgical decision making begins way before the day of surgery, I quickly became aware of the degree of detail required and the process for getting a patient from my clinic into the operating room. In an 18 |

FPMA Footprints

attempt to develop an efficient system for handling my initial surgical decisions and organizing my thoughts, I began incorporating a surgical booking template that provides every bit of information required for my preoperative decision making. The information detailed on the booking template includes anticipated CPT codes and planned procedures for preauthorization and postoperative billing, type of anesthesia requested, surgical positioning, hardware and anticipated length of procedure. By integrating the template into my current practice, I have developed an efficient and consistent system to help my schedulers and surgery center/hospital organize the procedures. While I don’t think every new provider needs a designated “surgical booking sheet,” I do recommend that you promptly conceive a plan to systematically schedule a patient for surgery while keeping yourself on the same page as the

patient, operating room and hardware companies when needed.

Surgical preference cards are also very important for current or recently graduated residents to get their hands on as they develop their own predilections in the operating room.

Each attending physician typically has one created for them by the hospital and/or surgery center and they provide general information including glove sizes, draping instructions and bandages, as well as case specific information such as serial numbers for saw blades and specific instruments preferred for certain cases. Obtaining and editing this information to provide for your operating room staff can reduce distractions during inconvenient periods throughout your clinic schedule as it continues to grow.

Quickly developing a system also helps

to provide consistency for your support staff as you develop your preferences and decision making evolves over time.

Consistency is critical in establishing yourself in the OR and your clinic, and by creating a system, you can help your clinic and OR staff anticipate their tasks, minimize errors and maximize perioperative efficiency. This can be done any number of ways, but I try to maintain consistency by using the same tourniquet for every case. Although I understand when some of my colleagues disagree with using regional nerve block and a thigh tourniquet set to 250 mmHg for a hammertoe repair, keeping everything standard for all of my surgeries is more important to me as a first-year physician trying to make the OR staff more familiar with me early in my practice.

Additionally, I believe there is significant benefit in this regard when you arrive early to help set up and position your patient as you see fit.

Getting the Best Results Postoperatively During my training, I tried to be a good resident and ask my attending physicians about their postoperative weightbearing protocols. I did not write down most of their advice. I did take special care to document more of this information during my fellowship; however, I recommend that surgeons starting out in practice have designated protocol groups based on recovery times. (The book Essential Foot and Ankle Surgical Techniques a Multidisciplinary Approach has a good reference to use to start working on a template.)

Having designated postoperative recovery protocol groups can be a good reference for a new physician as they advance weightbearing in their patients postoperatively while also helping to keep consistency in the postoperative care provided to their patients. Providing handouts of pre-determined protocols can also help maintain expectations after surgery as a physician educates patients preoperatively. Additionally, keeping these handouts readily available can help to guide one of your partners

I strongly advise that you take the first few months and years in practice to hit the ground running and get as busy as possible, as quickly as possible. You will be humbled as you go door-to-door from family practice clinics to physical therapy offices.

who may be covering and seeing one of your postoperative patients while you are away. I routinely hand out my postoperative recovery protocol groups to all of my surgical patients preoperatively, which include tentative guidelines on weightbearing, physical therapy and estimated recovery times.

Never underestimate the importance of good postoperative physical therapy and become extremely familiar with the ABFAS Information and Requirements for Board Certification as a guide on when to obtain postoperative radiographs at appropriate time periods to help set yourself up for success when applying for board certification.

Starting Fresh The best advice I can give for completing training and starting a career as a physician in practice is to stay motivated.

Even though it feels like you are at the end, once you have completed your training, you are actually just getting started. I strongly advise that you take the first few months and years in practice to hit the ground running and get as busy as possible, as quickly as possible.

You will be humbled as you go doorto-door from family practice clinics to physical therapy offices. Emergency department physicians will graciously look at you strangely for coming in to reduce a dislocated ankle fracture. At the end of the day, the more you can do to increase local exposure for yourself in the community early on, the quicker you will find yourself settling into a successful, growing practice. I recommend investigating your employer’s marketing strategy both before and shortly after signing your contract so you are most prepared to start off on the right foot.

As you transition out of training and into your own practice, you will soon learn there is a lot you didn’t know and didn’t know you needed to know. There are no books to help you, just a lot of texting your mentors in addition to trial and error. As long as you are providing care while keeping in mind the patient’s best interests, you will steadily build your practice and grow your reputation.

It is nice to keep in touch with friends and colleagues in the profession, but it is best to keep your sanity by not comparing your practice to anyone else’s as you don’t know their situation. While it is normal to have concerns early on, you should not feel pressure to get board certified within the designated time frame. As a resident, I remember thinking it was stressful to perform enough surgery and pass the tests within seven years, but once I settled into practice, I came to the realization that seven years is likely more than enough time and that my goals of becoming board certified in foot and ankle surgery don’t always align with patients’ best interests.

Everybody’s situation is different when they first start off in practice, and you will certainly encounter your own maturing pains as you settle into this next stage of your life. As much as you will encounter frustrations, you will also get to experience the joys of seeing people as you positively impact their lives. These experiences are hand in hand throughout your first year, but the sooner you can create routines and structure in handling day-to-day minutiae, the sooner you will be able to enjoy the good moments and minimize the distractions that take away from your practice.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 19

MEMBERSHIP

FPMA Component Presidents 2023 BREVARD Dr. David M. Schweibish 2020 N. Hwy. A1A, Ste. 101 Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937 (321) 777-4774, 777-4788 (FAX) david311@me.com

GULF CENTRAL FLORIDA Dr. Bryan A. Spooner 1866 Buford Blvd.

Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 894-1820, 656-9293 (FAX) bas@tlhpodiatry.com

NORTHEAST FLORIDA Dr. Jorg A. Bober 1409 Kingsley Ave., Ste. 9G Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 637-0037, 639-6017 (FAX) julbober@gmail.com

BROWARD Dr. Adam J. Oxios 17013 Pines Blvd.

Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 (954) 450-4200 aoxios@gmail.com www.thebcpma.com

HERNANDO Dr. John E. Baker 6317 Sealawn Dr. Spring Hill, FL 34607 (352) 597-2223, 597-2061 (FAX) jebaker@tampabay.rr.com

NORTHWEST FLORIDA Dr. Jeffrey T. Weiland 1717 N. E St., #533 Pensacola, FL 32501 (847) 899-0215 podweiland@gmail.com

HILLSBOROUGH Dr. Zenobia A. Bowen 6632 Glencoe Dr. Temple Terrace, FL 33617 (813) 261-0382 zeebowen@aol.com

PALM BEACH Dr. Xavier A. Sanchez 8645 N. Military Trl., Ste. 501 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 838-7250, 619-2928 (FAX) xaviersanchezdpm@gmail.com www.pbcpodiatry.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA Dr. Ramin R. Nadjafi 114 Park Lake St. Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 423-9401, 203-4025 (FAX) rnadjafi@aol.com CHARLOTTE Dr. Andre M. Williams 352 Milus St. Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (941) 626-1804, 347-7271 (FAX) awilliam33dpm@yahoo.com COLLIER Dr. Jenny W. Adams 3435 Pineridge Rd., Ste. 102 Naples, FL 34109 (239) 260-7476, 260-7608 (FAX) dradams239@gmail.com DADE Dr. Lucita M. Clersaint 58 NE 167th St. Miami, FL 33162 (305) 944-1610, 944-1670 (FAX) lmclersaint@aol.com www.miamidadepod.com EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA Dr. Macalee Harlis Jr. 1680 SE Lyngate Dr., Ste. 201 Port St. Lucie, FL 34952 (772) 210-3339, 404-7819 (FAX) macaleeharlisjrdpm@gmail.com EMERALD COAST Pending 20 |

FPMA Footprints

INDIAN RIVER Dr. Amberly C. Paradoa 3735 11th Cir., #201 Vero Beach, FL 32960 (772) 299-7009, 562-7138 (FAX) ircpma2018@gmail.com LAKE-SUMTER Dr. Chad C. Watkins 914 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 34748 (352) 805-4317, 805-4298 (FAX) watkins207@comcast.net LEE Dr. Michael J. Wilkins 5238 Mason Corbin Ct., #102 Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 936-5400, 936-9572 (FAX) mikewilkinsdpm@gmail.com MANASOTA Dr. Louis S. Giannone 411 Commercial Ct., Ste. G Venice, FL 34292 (941) 412-3000, 412-3005 (FAX) l.s.giannone@gmail.com NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA Dr. Stephanie Frey 1500 SE Magnolia Extension 201 Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 351-1555, 351-1330 (FAX) sfreydpm@aol.com

PINELLAS Dr. Robin M. Katz 6600 34th Ave. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33710 (727) 343-2244, 347-0777 (FAX) rkatz4@gmail.com POLK Dr. James E. Koon 635 First St. N. Winter Haven, FL 33881 (863) 294-0670 cypresspodiatry@aol.com ST. JOHNS Dr. Ryan J. Pereira 1301 Plantation Island Dr., #203 St. Augustine, FL 32080 (904) 461-0821, 461-0823 (FAX) ryanjpereira@yahoo.com Contact Person: Dr. Thom LeBeau drthom@staugustinefoot.com VOLUSIA Dr. Andrew B. Green 21 Hospital Dr., Ste. 170 Palm Coast, FL 32164 (386) 586-7373, 586-7346 (FAX) gatorpod1@gmail.com

As of 8/3/23

Annual Election of FPMA Officers – 2024 Annual elections will be held at the FPMA General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Hyatt Regency Orlando.

The offices to be filled are: • President-elect • Vice President • Treasurer • Secretary

Please include any background material you deem helpful to your candidacy.

• APMA Delegates (5) (two-year terms) (The FPMA president is automatically a delegate; the presidentelect and vice president are automatically alternates.)

Note: End of two-year delegate terms: • Mark S. Block, DPM • Robert Frimmel, DPM • John Goggin, DPM • Terence McDonald, DPM

Any member of the association wishing to be considered for nomination by the Nomination Committee for any of the offices previously listed is hereby requested to forward a letter of intent to the chairman of the FPMA Nomination Committee and the FPMA CEO/executive director.

Andre M. Williams FPMA Nomination Committee Chairman awilliam33dpm@yahoo.com Karen Lambert FPMA CEO/Executive Director klambert@fpma.com Deadline for submission of letters of intent is Thursday, December 28, 2023.

• David Schweibish, DPM

In Memoriam Raymond A. Anderson, DPM, of Seminole, Florida, passed away on March 14, 2023, at the age of 86. He graduated from the Illinois College of Podiatry (now known as the Dr. William Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine) in 1964, where he taught for several years. He practiced podiatry in both Chicago, Illinois, and Seminole, Florida, for a total of 52 years and was an FPMA Life Member. Ray is survived by his wife Anna Marie Wells-Anderson, two sons and their spouses, one stepson, one stepdaughter, two grandchildren and three step-grandchildren.

Howard G. Groshell Jr., DPM, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, passed

away on June 24, 2023, at the age of 90. Howard served in the military during the Korean War. He received his podiatric degree from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (now known as Kent State University School of Podiatric Medicine). He practiced medicine and performed surgery for over 40 years and was an FPMA Life Member. Howard founded the first surgical residency program in Jacksonville, Florida, at Jacksonville Medical Center. He had multiple offices throughout Jacksonville and many loyal patients and employees.

His specialty was treating fibromyalgia, and he wrote several books on the subject. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Mary Rellahan Groshell,

DPM, three sons and their spouses, two stepdaughters, 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Gary A. Ways, DPM, of Coral Springs, Florida, passed away on August 14, 2023, at the age of 69.

He received his podiatric degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. Gary was a member of FPMA for 42 years.

Glenn C. Berkin, DPM, of North Miami Beach, Florida, passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 65. He received his podiatric degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Glenn was a member of FPMA for 39 years.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 21

New MATE Training Requirement

MEMBERSHIP

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

On December 29, 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 enacted a new one-time eight-hour training requirement for all Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)registered practitioners on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders. Beginning on June 27, 2023, practitioners are required to check a box on their online DEA registration form — regardless of whether a registrant is completing their initial registration application or renewing their registration — affirming that they have completed the new MATE (Medication Access and Training Expansion Act) requirement.

The deadline for satisfying this new training requirement is the date of a practitioner’s next scheduled DEA registration submission — regardless of whether it is an initial registration or a

22 |

FPMA Footprints

FPMA advises members to avoid attending continuing education courses required for licensure/ relicensure/MATE training that are not offered by a statewide professional association of physicians accredited to provide educational activities and are not approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine. It is best to check CE Broker for course approval by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine PRIOR TO registering and taking a course for continuing education.

renewal registration — on or after June 27, 2023. This means that if, for example, a member’s DEA license is not due for renewal until January 1, 2024, they have until January 1, 2024, to complete the eight hours of training.

website. The course, approved by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine and provided by the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA), can be found via the “Find Courses” link at the top of the CE Broker website at www.cebroker.com.

This one-time training requirement affirmation will not be a part of future registration renewals.

Please Note: Podiatric physicians who attended the “Safe and Effective Prescribing of Controlled Substances” course on Sunday, June 11, 2023, during the FPMA 2023 Summer Conference fulfilled two hours of MATE training (eight total hours are required) as well as the 2.0 Controlled Substances requirement for Florida relicensure.

DEA Training Course for Podiatric Physicians Now Available A six-hour DEA course approved for Podiatric Physicians licensed in the state of Florida is now available on the CE Broker

2023 FPMS Scholarship Recipients FPMS

The Florida Podiatric Medical Society was formed in 1927 to serve as the philanthropic arm of FPMA. While it is separate from FPMA, the Society was formed by and for association membership to assist in procuring new sources of funding, which are used for podiatric student scholarships and other philanthropic activities.

Every member of FPMA is automatically a member of FPMS. TOP LEFT: The 2023 Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine (BUSPM) Commencement Ceremony took place on Saturday, April 29, 2023.

TOP RIGHT: Caleb Pincock, DPM (right), was presented with the Dr. Mark Lambert Scholarship by Karen Lambert, FPMA CEO/Executive Director (left).

BOTTOM LEFT: Logan Fletcher, DPM (right), was presented with the FPMA Past President’s Scholarship by Alissa Zdancewicz, DPM, FPMA president (left).

BOTTOM RIGHT: The BUSPM Class of 2023 taking the Hippocratic Oath.

Delivering Exceptional Quality to Podiatry Since 1995

888-492-8393

PRODUCT QUALITY Our highly experienced craftsmen use approved fabrication techniques, state of the art materials, and advanced technology to build high quality American Made custom orthotics

EarthwalkOrthotics.com

500 Vista Avenue SE Massillon, OH 44646

ABC ACCREDITED

UICK TURNAROUND We ship custom orthotics within 5-7 days of receipt and provide tracking notifications when orders ship

PERSONALIZED SERVICE Our Customers are encouraged to collaborate with our experienced Pedorthist to identify the appropriate devices

We’re an ABC accredited full service orthotics laboratory laborato (prescription orthotics, custom fitted pre-fab orthotics, white labelled OTC orthotics, and custom/prefab AFO bracing)

The Premium Prescription Orthotic Laboratory: Engineered for the Highest Quality Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 23

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

FPMA Component POWER

By Chris Hansen, FPMA Lobbyist

As summer turned into fall, FPMA’s secret political weapon slowly began to take shape. Over the past several years, a push has been made to encourage greater political awareness of members and one surefire way to do this is to invite elected officials to FPMA component meetings. FPMA President Alissa Zdancewicz, DPM, has made this initiative, known as “FPMA Advocacy on the Road,” a 2023-24 priority.

FPMA components around the state have gathered to meet and share valuable podiatric information and hear about the latest industry trends from trusted vendors as well as welcome Florida House and Senate members. A strong lineup has already been set for 2023.

Dr. Zdancewicz and FPMA Government and Legislative Affairs Chairmen Drs. Ed Fazekas and Andre Williams made the rounds this summer, attending FPMA component meetings and visiting with members. The ultimate goal of the FPMA Advocacy on the Road initiative is to inform Florida House and Senate members about what podiatric physicians do and the important role they play in providing overall foot health.

Juan Carlos Porras (R) Miami The Dade component got a chance to meet Juan Carlos Porras, who went from legislative aide to a member of the Florida House of Representatives prior to the age of 30.

Tommy Gregory (R) Lakewood Ranch Our members in the Manasota component got a firsthand briefing on how to stop the trial bar in Florida. Rep. Gregory has had the most influential tort reform legislation in the last 50 years.

I hope every FPMA component gets involved in this important initiative.

FPMA staff is ready to help any component president who needs assistance. Below is information about the first wave of component meetings/political guests that have taken place this year so far.

Dave Weldon, MD (R) Malabar Former Congressman and local internal medicine physician, Dave Weldon spent an hour with the Brevard component.

Dr. Weldon is running for an open seat in Melbourne area HD-31.

Kimberly Berfield (R) Clearwater Rep. Kim Berfield attended a Pinellas component meeting and provided a 2023 session recap. She expressed her interest in health care, having served as chief deputy at the Florida Department of Health under Jeb Bush.

24 |

FPMA Footprints

Hillary Cassel (D) Hollywood The Broward component got a chance to meet one of the most dynamic new members to join the legislature. Rep. Cassel is a high energy member and an expert on property damage litigation.

All of these visits by legislators to our component meetings did not occur by chance; many years of FPMA grassroots contact assisted with their attendance. There are 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives and 40 members of the state Senate, so our work is just beginning.

The FPMA delegation was recognized in the gallery of the Florida House of Representatives.

FPMA delegation meeting with Florida State Rep. Michael Grant.

FPMA delegation on the steps of the Old Florida Capitol.

FPMA 2023 Legislative Days at the Capitol

By Karen N. Lambert

In early April, FPMA hosted a delegation of eight podiatric physician members and two Barry University student doctor members in Tallahassee. Over the course of the two days at the state Capitol, the delegates held 11 meetings collectively with members of the Florida House and Senate. Delegates also met individually with their own respective representatives in both the Florida House and Senate.

FPMA delegates spent time in a House Health Regulation Committee meeting, met with CFO Jimmy Patronis’ General Counsel regarding TPA/FISO issues and spent time on the House floor. FPMA delegation members were recognized in the House Gallery by Rep. Spencer Roach.

To view a video of the FPMA 2023 Legislative Days highlights, go to https://youtu.be/dXbh6r4AAWA.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 25

APMA UPDATE

APMA State Advocacy Forum Highlights different ways that state components, whether large or small, can navigate legislative efforts and goals with the resources available to them.

APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) biennial State Advocacy Forum was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, August 2526, 2023. More than 60 state component leaders and executive directors attended, representing 26 states. Additionally, some states sent their lobbyists, governmental affairs chairs and young physicians. APMA Board members, staff, CPA Advisory Group (CPAAG) members and this year’s recipient of APMA’s Young Physician Advocate Scholarship also attended.

The ultimate goal of the forum was to provide attendees with the tools they need to advocate effectively, through both traditional methods and more creative ones.

The meeting kicked off on Friday afternoon with a panel discussion centered on grassroots advocacy, “Maximizing Funds in a BudgetTight Environment.” Janet Simon, DPM, executive director of the New Mexico Podiatric Medical Association (NMPMA), moderated with fellow executive directors, Mike Mathy (Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association) and Derek Dalling (Michigan Podiatric Medical Association), serving on the panel. This session focused on the

26 |

FPMA Footprints

The second session on Friday afternoon was a deep dive into state advocacy presented by NMPMA. It featured a panel including NMPMA’s attorney, Shawn Mathis, JD, as well as Elizabeth Thomson and Marian Matthews, both New Mexico state representatives.

Additionally, NMPMA’s legislative consultants John Anderson and Cris Balzano contributed valuable insights to the discussion. During the session, the panel provided an in-depth exploration of how a recent bill in New Mexico was successfully passed.

They emphasized the importance of being available to legislators when issues arise in order to facilitate their understanding of the subject matter.

They also highlighted the importance of reaching out and developing relationships with legislators before a crisis develops.

Saturday morning kicked off with a panel discussion featuring Carrisa Kemp, director of state government affairs and advocacy at the American Diabetes Association (ADA), and Austin Matthews, DPM, from Wyoming. They discussed the successful passage of the Wyoming Senate Bill 37, which expanded Medicaid coverage to include services from a podiatric physician. This case

study underscored the importance of having podiatric physician advocates involved in legislative efforts. It is not enough for the state component to push a legislative goal, but instead, legislators need to hear from podiatrists directly on the value of the care they provide. The success in passing Senate Bill 37 was due in large part to the collaboration between the ADA and the support from various health care providers, highlighting health care cost savings and benefits for patients.

Attendees were also briefed on ongoing APMA initiatives on certifying boards and physician parity, with updates shared by APMA CEO and Executive Director James Christina, DPM. APMA President Sylvia Virbulis provided an APMA update, and Benjamin Wallner, senior director of APMA’s Legislative Affairs department, delivered an update on legislative matters. Finally, APMA Senior Medical Director Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, CAE, and Julia Jacobson, coordinator for the APMA Young Physicians/Clinical Affairs program, provided insights on ways to involve young physicians in advocacy concerns and engaged attendees with a fascinating exercise in how perspectives change.

State Advocacy Forum attendees engaged in two open forums. The initial session focused on advocacy concerns in the present moment, with

breakout groups giving participants a chance to share the challenges they are presently encountering in their respective states. The second open forum centered on physician extenders and served as a continuation of the conversations held during the Mini Summit earlier in August. During this session, groups delved deeply into their concerns regarding physician extenders and explored potential next steps APMA should consider in relation to this matter.

Another panel conversation centered on licensing boards and state component cooperation. The panel featured Dr. Simon, Oregon Podiatric Medical Association President Cassandra Tomczak, DPM, and Russell Stoner, CAE, Federation of Podiatric

Medical Boards (FPMB) executive director. Mr. Stoner moderated the discussion and spoke about the work the FPMB does with state licensing boards. The entire panel emphasized the significance of fostering collaboration between the state component and the licensing board to successfully advance specific legislative bills.

Innovation Grant program annually awards up to 10 states $1,000 each for the specific purpose of conducting outreach and education efforts, updating their state scope of practice, or working on physician definition.

The CPA Financial Assistance Grant annually awards up to five states $10,000 each and is much broader in its application.

Last, but not least, forum attendees heard reports from states that had received a 2023 CPA Innovation Grant or 2023 CPA Financial Assistance Grant. Some states were successful in their efforts, while other states still have work to do. It was great to hear about tactics that worked and pitfalls to avoid, as well as where each state is currently focusing its efforts. The CPA

Overall, it was a productive and educational meeting. Hearing directly from colleagues, attendees were reminded that any successful advocacy initiative is a long-haul effort. Success does not happen overnight, but with the combined collaborative efforts of members and leadership, along with hard work and diligence, meaningful progress will always be made.

When Plantar Fasciitis Is So Bad, Your Patient Can’t Walk...

© 2023 PediFix, INC. FPM923

• Instant Heel Pain Relief • Low-Dye Benefits, Faster, Easier • Water-Resistant, Lasts Up to 7 Days • Hypoallergenic & Latex Free • Patients Can (Re)Apply At Home • Billable (29540)

...This Is The Solution

To order or get more information…

Call: 800-424-5561 Email: info@pedifix.com Contact: your favorite supplier

Mention Code FPM923 for a discounted trial pack Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 27

INSURANCE AFFAIRS

THE

Numbers Are Out!

TPE Updates: Several years ago, Medicare/CMS implemented a novel approach to utilization concerns, titled Targeted Probe and Educate (TPE).

By Mark S. Block, DPM This initiative was and is intended to address reimbursement issues, foremost being inappropriate and/ or overutilization of select procedures.

In previous lectures, reports, articles, etc. I have presented this topic in order to offer guidance and understanding. That material can be accessed, if needed, from my archived communications. Additionally, I endeavor to continually update and share relevant information with the membership.

At first glance, providers may be under the misconception that TPE is focusing on a specific provider group/specialty.

TPE “targets” specific providers, not specialties. Some professions may “own” certain procedures by virtue of their areas of expertise. Therefore, potential utilization numbers of specific services performed are legitimately higher, leading to a misconception that a specific provider group is targeted

28 |

FPMA Footprints

(e.g., podiatric physicians, by virtue of our specialty, perform a substantial number of procedures 11042-11045).

This has resulted in several podiatric physicians being targeted by this probe.

However, if you are a provider of these services, regardless of your specialty, you have an equal probability of being subject to the TPE initiative.

Providers perceived to be offenders are given the opportunity to justify appropriate utilization of the guidelines/policies. If found deficient, the provider is given the opportunity to take corrective actions.

I obtained the following recent analysis, which is beneficial and educational. This newly released feedback from the “first round” of the TPE initiative provides additional insight and guidance benefiting those interested in or presently affected by the TPE program. Additionally, the statistics provided shed additional light on this subject and are of interest.

TPE Wound Debridement (CPT 11042-11045) Initiative: First Coast Service Options (FCSO) stated that the TPE just released results for Wound Debridement (CPT 1104222045) are for “Round 1” (as noted below). There are two more rounds

remaining. It is further stated that additional rounds (up to a total of three) will be utilized when “the targeted topic demonstrates a continued need for review with newly identified providers.” In summary, this probe has not ended and will continue as needed and stated.

They have identified the major reasons for denial for ‘round 1’: The following were found to be the most common denial reasons: 1. Medical Necessity – The documentation submitted does not support medical necessity as listed in coverage requirements.

2. Insufficient Documentation – Insufficient documentation was provided to support the services as billed to Medicare. Medical Review makes multiple attempts to correct these error types before completion of the review. Below are the following denial reasons for insufficient documentation we were not able to resolve: • Insufficient documentation to support the treatment plan • Insufficient documentation to support the procedure done • Insufficient documentation to support the patient’s response to treatment plan • Incorrect date of service billed

approving claims. They subsequently pulled back and cancelled this initiative in the 11th hour.

Round Results

CLASSIFICATION

Wound Debridement TPE Round Results (CPT 11042-11045)

It would not surprise me if Cigna or other carriers attempted to reactivate 25 modifier or a similar policy. To APMA’s credit, they, along with other stakeholders, aggressively pursued Cigna to reverse this directive.

Major Moderate Minor 0

20

40

60

80

100

Round Number

Minor

Moderate

Major

Round 1 (October 2022 -July 2023)

63%

5%

32%

Round 2 (TBD) Round 3 (TBD)

The Good News: Approximately 60 percent were minor issues and, I would assume, easily corrected avoiding the need for a provider having to participate in all three rounds.

The Bad News: Approximately 30 percent were major issues.

Retrospectively, some providers shared with me their experience and indicated that in “Round 1” they were afforded the opportunity to provide corrections to apparently minor issues. I believe after corrected and resubmitted, the probe was then terminated (this was my perception, to date, but not yet confirmed).

I would assume, based on my understanding of the process, those with a major issue were required to participate in “Round 2.” Hopefully, if a provider is unfortunate and grouped into that round, they will have been “educated” and afforded the opportunity to take corrective action.

If successful, the reviewer’s evaluation performed in the second round would validate the corrective actions and there would not be a need for participation in the third round. It will be interesting to see the second round statistics. I am guardedly optimistic that there will be a substantial improvement in compliance.

Be advised, as with all requests from Medicare/CMS or their proxies for records, it is incumbent upon providers to submit the material on a timely basis. Over the years, I have seen statistics for denials associated with non-submission of requested records.

This can lead to the perception that the claim was denied due to inappropriate billing, performance of procedure, etc.

Ultimately, non-submission as noted above may lead to policy changes predicated on statistics not accurately reflecting the root cause. A perfect example was/is the “diabetic shoe initiative.” Some providers did not comply with the carrier requests for records.

Ultimately, the statistics categorized this deficiency as documentation issues resulting in noncompliance. As a result, additional review initiatives were implemented due to inadequate documentation requiring additional audits and scrutiny of this program.

25 Modifier: As we have and continue to experience from the payor community, denials associated with 25 modifier remain on their radar screen. The recent Cigna issue is just one symbolic example. For the second time in two years, they notified providers of their intent to implement a prepayment audit process prior to

I previously chaired a 25 modifier work group that was tasked with providing helpful guidance and information to the membership. It is felt that based on the current feedback, a level of provider confusion and/or misunderstanding still exists. With APMA sensitive to members’ continued needs, we are once again prioritizing this issue.

I have once again been asked by APMA to chair a 25 modifier work group.

At the time of this writing, we have assembled and tasked the group with reviewing APMA’s current 25 modifier tool kit, resources and guidance provided on the APMA members-only website. Updates will be provided as needed along with additional material to assist the membership.

Per APMA’s request, I will be a contributor to the yet to be written article re: 25 modifier. It is scheduled to be published by APMA when completed.

I look forward to providing additional insight and information or assistance upon completion.

I want to reemphasize that there are currently numerous resources available on the APMA website (located at www.apma.org) to assist members challenged by these and other issues. The website should be considered one of the primary reference sources. Remember, it is only “a click away.”

Hopefully this article is helpful and informative to members. I look forward to continuing to assist the membership with challenging issues and providing guidance and help if and as needed.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 29

FFAFS

FFAFS: The FPMA Initiative Is on the Move!

By Adam D. Perler, DPM

The Florida Foot & Ankle Fellowship Society (FFAFS) is the first and only state-supported fellowship initiative in the country. Established in 2019, FFAFS has played a pivotal role in training over 20 dedicated foot and ankle fellows in the advanced principles of reconstructive surgery across Florida.

The concept for this fellowship program was initially introduced to FPMA/FPMS by Drs. Andrew Belis and Adam Perler, alongside Karen Lambert, the CEO/executive director of FPMA, and was swiftly embraced.

Currently, Florida boasts eight participating fellowship sites, all of which hold either CPME approval or ACFAS recognition. To date, FFAFS has raised and disbursed over $100,000 to enhance fellowship activities throughout the state.

What Are the Goals of FFAFS? The core objectives of FFAFS are twofold: 1) to stimulate the expansion of fellowship training opportunities within Florida, and 2) to nurture the development of future thought leaders, innovators, educators and researchers in our field.

30 |

FPMA Footprints

FFAFS Fellows Lead the Way! Thus far, FFAFS fellows have actively contributed to every FPMA conference since its inception, participated in the monthly Roundtable of Excellence webinar series, engaged in mission trips and some have even ventured to Europe for overseas training workshops.

Notably, FFAFS held its inaugural graduation ceremony for its fellowship graduates at the FPMA 2023 Summer Conference, marking the beginning of an annual tradition.

FFAFS Fellowship Directors Dr. Adam Perler (left), Dr. Brad Lamm (center) and Dr. Andrew Belis (right) at SAM 2023.

Another key goal of FFAFS is to collaborate with industry partners to provide financial support for this initiative. In 2021, FFAFS introduced the FFAFS Roundtable of Excellence, a free webinar series. To date, we have conducted 18 webinars in this series, covering various topics, such as the comparison of minimally invasive surgery versus Lapidus procedures, pediatric bunion correction, algorithms for correcting total ankle deformities, the influence of 3D printing in foot and ankle surgery, missionary medicine and the intricacies of innovation and product development. These webinars are accessible to anyone, and all of the past sessions are available for viewing on the FPMA website on the FFAFS page located at www.fpma.com/florida_foot_ ankle_fellowshi.php.

One of our most significant achievements is the support network that has been established among current and former fellows, which will undoubtedly lay the foundation for the continued growth and advancement of our profession.

FFAFS takes great pride in fostering “the fellowship between fellows” in the state of Florida, a sentiment echoed by Dr. Nishu Vora, an FFAFS alumni member and recent graduate of Dr. Warren Windram’s Fellowship program.

FFAFS 2023 Graduation dinner at the FPMA 2023 Summer Conference

PUBLIC AFFAIRS

FPMA Members Participate in 2023 ADA Step Out Florida Event

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

The 2023 Step Out Florida event took place on Saturday, September 23, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Several members of the FPMA Dade and Broward components participated, along with podiatric student volunteers. Team FPMA raised over $5,000 for the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

Step Out Walk is Florida’s premier diabetes awareness, fundraising and community engagement event. Money raised by the event funds lifesaving research, education, advocacy and programs, supporting more than 130 million Americans and their loved ones impacted by diabetes and pre-diabetes. This was the 14th year in a row that FPMA members participated in this very worthwhile fundraising event.

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 31

CONFERENCE NEWS

FPMA 2023 Summer Conference Returns

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

renewal. Educational activities are provided each day of the conference, most ending before noon so attendees can spend their free time doing recreational activities they enjoy and spending quality time with their families.

After a one-year absence, due to the APMA Annual Scientific Meeting (The National) taking place in Orlando during the summer 2022, FPMA members once again attended the FPMA Summer Conference at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida, June 8-11, 2023.

The FPMA Summer Conference is coordinated annually to provide FPMA members the opportunity to secure continuing education contact hours (CECH) needed for license

32 |

FPMA Footprints

The beautiful southwest Florida resort continues to be a draw for conference attendees who enjoy a little tropical flavor when participating in leisure and selfenrichment activities in the afternoons and evenings. FPMA sponsors hosted a welcome reception, podiatric resident/student event and a non-CECH Lunch and Learn for conference attendees. FPMA also arranged a variety of leisure/learning activities for attendees, including CPR training, a selfdefense class and the FPMA Cornhole Tournament of Champions. Attendees’ families also enjoyed making s’mores at the resort fire pit.

In addition to the physician conference program, an X-ray assistant program was offered during the conference for podiatric X-ray assistants seeking initial licensure and recertification.

The sold-out FPMA 2023 Summer Conference exhibit hall, along with the area outside the exhibit hall, was filled with activity, providing almost 50 exhibitor tabletops for conference attendees to visit.

FPMA offers their sincerest thanks to all of our members who seek out this conference annually. This conference would not be successful without the time and energy expended by the FPMA Convention Committee and FPMA staff, as well as our industry partners who turn out in force to support the conference.

We especially wish to thank our exhibitors and those who sponsored the event whose financial support made it all possible.

The

Summer Conference FPMA thanks the following sponsors for their continued support

DIAMOND SPONSOR

DIAMOND SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

DIAMOND SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSOR Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 33

CONFERENCE NEWS

Join Us for

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

Mark your calendars! The Florida Podiatric Medical Association’s 2024 Science & Management Symposium (SAM) will be held at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on January 24-28, 2024. FPMA invites you to join us for this exceptional event where cutting-edge knowledge, innovation and camaraderie will converge for an unforgettable experience.

For the majority of FPMA members, attendance of FPMA educational conferences is a complimentary service as a part of FPMA membership. Please note that the complimentary registration deadline is November 24, 2023, so don’t forget to register by that date! Conference registration fees will increase after November 24 and the conference registration deadline is December 18, 2023. After that date, physicians will have to register on-site at the conference (please note that assistant program registration will NOT be available on-site at the conference).

We encourage you and your assistants to register promptly so FPMA can get appropriate head counts for food and beverage, events and seating.

SAM 2024 conference registration forms for podiatric physicians, podiatric X-ray assistants (those seeking initial licensure or recertification) and podiatric medical assistants (front or back office) are available in this issue of 34 |

FPMA Footprints

FPMA Footprints. Online conference registration is also available via the SAM website at www. fpmasamconference.com, as is hotel reservation information. Attendees need to secure their hotel room reservation by January 2, 2024, in order to receive the SAM 2024 conference rate, so book your hotel room ASAP! During SAM 2024, long lunch breaks will provide physician attendees with ample time to grab a bite and then explore the conference exhibit hall and all it has to offer. The SAM 2024 exhibit hall will have a new design and numerous vendors will be available showcasing their products and services.

SAM 2024 will take place approximately 60 days prior to Florida podiatric physician/X-ray assistant license renewal.

As such, SAM physician attendees will be offered courses required for renewal of their licenses, including Medical Errors, Laws & Rules, Risk Management, and Safe and Effective Prescribing of Controlled Substances, in addition to a variety of scientific and practice management courses. If you have not yet earned your required 40 continuing education contact hours (CECH) for relicensure, SAM 2024 will provide you with an opportunity to earn the additional CECH you need.

To access information about SAM 2024, including links to conference registration, conference schedules and activities, assistant program information, sponsor and exhibitor information and hotel reservation information, visit the SAM website at www.fpmasamconference. com. The SAM website will be updated regularly up until the conference takes place in January, so visit often to keep up with all that SAM 2024 has to offer!

Physician Registration Form Registration Deadline: December 18, 2023

January 24 - January 28, 2024

Please use a separate form for each registrant. Some events may require separate fees. All communication regarding SAM 2024 coming from FPMA or exhibitors who purchase or capture registrant data on-site will be sent to the contact information provided below.

Attendee Information Last Name

First Name

Degree

Address City

Zip Code

State

Phone

(daytime)

Email

(required to register)

Phone (cell) License No.

APMA No.

Additional Information Per the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, check here if you have a disability and may require accommodations to participate fully. Please describe:

GUEST BADGE (Check to reserve)

Guest badges are limited to one per attendee and are only for immediate family members. Badges are required for access into the Exhibit Hall. All guests must be accompanied by a registered SAM attendee.

Registration Fees

By November 24, 2023

After November 24, 2023

$0

$200

FPMA Life Member

$300

$400

APMA Member

$525

$625

APMA Life Member

$300

$400

Non-APMA Member

$975

$1,075

Student

$25

$25

Resident FPMA/APMA

$100

$200

Resident Non-FPMA/Non-APMA

$200

$300

Friend of FPMA/ Federal Services

$475

$575

FPMA Member

Please complete the form on the following page

1 OF 2

Florida Podiatric Medical Association

| 35

Payment Total Registration Amount: $

Exp. Date

Visa

Card Number

MasterCard

Cardholder Name

American Express

Cardholder Signature

Check Enclosed

Billing Address

CVV

Please make checks payable to Florida Podiatric Medical Society Address: 3375-F Capital Circle NE, Ste. 201, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Return completed registration form with payment to: Mail: Florida Podiatric Medical Society 3375-F Capital Circle NE, Ste. 201, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Email: admin@fpma.com Fax: (850) 681-0899 Web: fpmasamconference.com

Please contact FPMA at 1-800-277-3338 to confirm registration if you do not receive email confirmation within seven (7) business days of submitting application.

PLEASE NOTE: -Educational topics are subject to change as the program schedule develops.

-All registration fees must be paid in full in advance.

-Payment must be received with your registration form.

--Registrations without complete payment will not be processed.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be made in writing and received by December 18, 2023. Refunds will be processed after the event. No refunds will be available for no-shows or cancellations received after December 18, 2023.

Hotel Information Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Dr. Orlando, FL 32819

Room Rate: $239.00 (single/double occupancy)

Book by January 2, 2024

To Make Reservations: Call (402) 593 - 5048 or go to https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/groupbooking/MCORO/G-4COK

By registering, you agree to these terms and conditions. SAM 2024 physician attendees will receive a link to the SAM 2024 online conference evaluation within two weeks of the conclusion of the conference, pending all conference fees being paid and attendance verified by FPMA. Once the online conference evaluation is completed by an attendee, a Certificate of Attendance based on CECH earned will be available for printing/downloading.

(Sign here)

(Date)

2 OF 2

Podiatric X-Ray Assistant Registration Form Registration Deadline: December 18, 2023

January 24 - January 28, 2024

Attendee Information

Please use a separate form for each registrant.

First Name

Last Name Physician/Employer Name

PXA License #

Address

State

City

Email Address (required)

Zip Code

Phone (cell)

*Links to the initial X-Ray Assistant test study materials and on-site updates will be sent to the provided email address.

Per the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, check here if you have a disability and may require accommodations to participate fully. Please describe:

Registration Fees 1st Assistant 2nd Assistant (By 11/24/23) (By 11/24/23)

3rd Assistant Any Assistant (By 11/24/23) (After 11/24/23)

Initial course for certification by Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine

$175

$160

$140

$190

Recertification: Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine

$175

$160

$140

$190

NOTE: Educational topics are subject to change as the program schedule develops.

All registration fees must be paid in full, in advance.

Payment must be received with your registration form.

Registrations without complete payment will not be processed.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be made in writing and received by December 18, 2023.Refunds will be processed after the event. No refunds will be available for no-shows or cancellations received after December 18, 2023.

Payment Total Registration Amount: $ Exp. Date

Visa

Card Number

MasterCard

Cardholder Name

American Express

Cardholder Signature

Check Enclosed

Billing Address

CVV

Please make checks payable to Florida Podiatric Medical Society

Return completed registration form with payment to: Mail: Florida Podiatric Medical Society 3375-F Capital Circle NE, Ste. 201, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Email: admin@fpma.com Fax: (850) 681-0899 Web: FPMASAMCONFERENCE.COM

Hotel Information Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819

Room Rate: $239.00 (single/double occupancy)

Book by January 2, 2024

To Make Reservations: Call (402) 593 - 5048 or go to https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/groupbooking/MCORO/G-4COK

Podiatric Medical Assistants (Front or Back Office) Registration Form

January 24 - January 28, 2024 Attendee Information

Registration Deadline: December 18, 2023

Please use a separate form for each registrant.

First Name

Last Name Physician/Employer Name

Zip Code

State

City

Address

Email Address (required)

Phone (cell)

Per the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, check here if you have a disability and may require accommodations to participate fully. Please describe:

Registration Fees 1st Assistant 2nd Assistant 3rd Assistant Any Assistant (By 11/24/23) (By 11/24/23) (By 11/24/23) (After 11/24/23)

Front Office Assistant

$175

$160

$140

$190

Back Office Assistant

$175

$160

$140

$190

NOTE: Educational topics are subject to change as the program schedule develops.

All registration fees must be paid in full, in advance.

Payment must be received with your registration form.

Registrations without complete payment will not be processed.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be made in writing and received by December 18, 2023. Refunds will be processed after the event.No refunds will be available for no-shows or cancellations received after December 18, 2023.

Payment Total Registration Amount: $

Exp. Date

Visa

Card Number

MasterCard

Cardholder Name

American Express

Cardholder Signature

Check Enclosed

Billing Address

CVV

Please make checks payable to Florida Podiatric Medical Society

Return completed registration form with payment to: Mail: Florida Podiatric Medical Society 3375-F Capital Circle NE, Ste. 201, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Email: admin@fpma.com Fax: (850) 681-0899 Web: FPMASAMCONFERENCE.COM

Hotel Information Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819

Room Rate: $239.00 (single/double occupancy)

Book by January 2, 2024

To Make Reservations: Call (402) 593 - 5048 or go to https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/groupbooking/MCORO/G-4COK

Florida Podiatric Medical Association 3375-F Capital Cir. NE, Ste. 201 Tallahassee, FL 32308