Spring 2023 Issue of FPMA Footprints

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

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

OFFICERS

Alissa B. Zdancewicz, DPM President

Larissa M. Schmidt, DPM President-Elect

David M. Schweibish, DPM Vice President

Adriana P. Strimbu, DPM Treasurer

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

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.

Stay Updated on FPMA’s 2023 Events

By Cary M. Zinkin, DPM

We hope you enjoy this issue of FPMA Footprints , as it covers some very important points for all of our practitioners.

While much of the information you receive during the year is electronic, reading this magazine provides a means of finding out more about something you might have heard at SAM, as well as following up on information provided by the many electronic methods FPMA staff uses to keep members informed.

In this edition of FPMA Footprints , you will find information and an explanation about how you may obtain CECH during current and future bienniums. You will also get updated about TPE, as well as view a full spread of pictures from one of the most unique SAM conferences to date. The new SAM exhibit hall design was very popular with both exhibitors and members, as they had a chance to visit and talk about products and services. And the hot lunches were a great addition that helped bring attendees together! I had the pleasure of providing background guitar and vocals to lighten up the mood in the SAM 2023 exhibit hall.

Always keep in mind that the officers and Board members, as well as committee members and FPMA staff, are always working hard to make our organization the largest and most professional podiatric association in the USA! That’s right! FPMA is now the largest state component of APMA!

I look forward to seeing you all at our Summer Conference in June, which will once again take place at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs!

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

That’s right! FPMA is now the largest state component of APMA!

Growing as a Podiatrist

By Alissa Zdancewicz, DPM

As many of you may have heard during my inaugural speech at this year’s SAM Conference, after I took the MCAT, several institutions sent cards and letters hoping to pique my interest in what their programs had to offer. The American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM) sent a postcard, prompting me to investigate podiatric medicine. Their marketing obviously worked because here I am, serving as the current president of the Florida Podiatric Medical Association. The card did not say, “Go to podiatry school,” nor did it say, “Be a podiatrist.” It simply read, “Consider podiatric medicine as a career.”

A career is a profession usually requiring special training followed as one’s lifework, with a sense of fulfillment often being the main driver. There are now 11 U.S. colleges of podiatric medicine affiliated with major teaching institutions offering a four-year curriculum to become a DPM. Our residencies comprise three years of podiatric medicine and surgery. After residency, fellowships are also available. Podiatrists in Florida work on everything from toenails to tibial nails. Each day, we treat patients by relieving their pain or saving their lower extremities from amputation.

Given all the special training and sense of fulfillment, this amounts to podiatric medicine as a career!

However, I would also like to include growing personally and professionally in this definition, as well as giving back to the profession. FPMA members have several opportunities to accomplish this.

Read Up on It

FPMA members receive complimentary subscriptions to FPMA Footprints, APMA News and JAPMA. The fact that you are currently reading this publication indicates that you like to stay informed. Our committee chairs, consultants and

other leaders have provided valuable information in the pages that follow.

Attend Component Meetings

FPMA component meetings provide an opportunity for young practitioners who perform major reconstructive surgeries to meet and network with physicians who may no longer be doing surgery. Sponsors of component meetings present new and exciting products and information at these meetings. In addition, when components conduct business during their meetings, FPMA members can earn one CECH for their attendance (up to eight per biennium).

Get Educated

The FPMA SAM and Summer conferences are some of the best in the country. With diverse educational tracks and a plethora of sponsors/exhibitors in the exhibit halls, podiatric physicians have immense opportunities for professional growth. Registration for these conferences is included as part of FPMA members’ dues. This year, FPMA is exploring ways to expand our online platform, as well. We want to offer our members as many pathways to education as possible.

Give Back

Giving back to your profession is imperative. This may include allowing a prospective student to shadow you in your office, volunteering with Special Olympics, speaking at a conference and/or participating on an FPMA committee. Making meaningful contributions to both Florida Podiatry PC and APMAPAC allows designated representatives to advocate for podiatry by meeting with government officials on both the state and federal levels. In addition, podiatric physicians can access advocacy resources on both the FPMA and APMA websites to contact their individual state and federal officials to educate them on any current issues or concerns pertaining to the profession.

I am certain several of you are already participating in most of these activities, and if so, thank you! Perhaps others will be inspired to do the same.

I hope after reading this, all of you will take a moment to appreciate how far you have come personally from your days as a student to becoming a podiatric professional. Whether you are a member in your first or 51st year of practice, FPMA offers many resources to support you in your podiatric medical career!

This year, FPMA is exploring ways to expand our online platform … We want to offer our members as many pathways to education as possible.

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

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Milestone Members

Congratulations to our Milestone Members. We heartily thank you for your commitment to the profession of podiatric medicine — past, present and future.

25-Year Members

Gilberto Acosta, DPM

Eugene Batelli, DPM

Desmond Bell, DPM

Noah Blum, DPM

Neal Bullock, DPM

Geovanny Chico, DPM

Douglas Childs, DPM

Lucita Clersaint, DPM

Kristi Conway, DPM

Uyen Dao, DPM

Lori DeBlasi, DPM

Michelle Detweiler, DPM

Pamela Dolber, DPM

Jorge Dopico, DPM

Steven Effren, DPM

Marius Espeleta, DPM

Lisa Farrar, DPM

Daniel Hameroff, DPM

Maria Jaramillo, DPM

Donald Johnson, DPM

Lisa Klemeyer, DPM

James Koon, DPM

Roy Laird, DPM

Leaha Neville, DPM

Patricia Nicholas, DPM

John Torregrosa, DPM

Grace Torres Hodges, DPM

Daniel Wiernik, DPM

50-Year Members

Barry Blass, DPM

Barry Block, DPM

Glenn Bredemeyer, DPM

Robert Goldberg, DPM

Alan Metzger, DPM

Thomas Norris, DPM

Harvey Pearl, DPM

Robert Perez, DPM

New and Returning Members

Brevard Component

Joshua Stewart, DPM

Broward Component

Nancy Calixte, DPM

Ann Dooling, Student Doctor

Stephanie Tine, DPM

Central Florida Component

Raluca Dima, Resident

John Jaeger, Resident

Joshua Treimer, Resident

Charlotte Component

Isin Mustafa, DPM

Dade Component

Brian Anyanwu, Student Doctor

Robert Ashby, Student Doctor

Eli Barman, Student Doctor

Kailee Bird, Student Doctor

Valerie Bonk, Student Doctor

William Bowes, Student Doctor

Malachi Brown, Student Doctor

Sarah Bushang, Student Doctor

Madison Carroll, Student Doctor

Spencer Carver, Student Doctor

Tawny Castaneda, Student Doctor

Jose Guadalupe Cuevas Rodriguez, Student Doctor

Andrea Delgado, Student Doctor

Mostafa Diab, Student Doctor

London Elrod, Student Doctor

Gabriela Florentino, Resident

Tailor Foreman, Student Doctor

Alexandra Fratila, Student Doctor

Imani Graham, Student Doctor

Carlos Ixta, Student Doctor

Muksaan Khan, Student Doctor

Claudia Llorian Benitez, Student Doctor

Samantha Marvel, Student Doctor

Ashley Melcho, Student Doctor

Sarada Mittapalli, Student Doctor

Hajar Ouassari, Student Doctor

Bridget Reddington, Student Doctor

Jacklyn Riley, Student Doctor

Luis Rivera II, Student Doctor

Suzanne Sbhai, Student Doctor

Evan Schwartz, Student Doctor

Michelle Shnayder, Student Doctor

Khobi Tariq Smith, Student Doctor

Andrew Swanson, Student Doctor

Emily Tang, Student Doctor

Sadra Targhi, Student Doctor

Daniel Tehranzadeh, Student Doctor

Randy Theodule, Student Doctor

Amanda Thoe, Student Doctor

Patricia Toledo, Student Doctor

Pathik Vaidya, Student Doctor

Kenia Valle, Student Doctor

Alexis Van Winkle, Student Doctor

Hansel Viera, Student Doctor

Carolina Vigo, Student Doctor

Hana Vilenica, Student Doctor

Kayla Wand, Student Doctor

Madalyn Werd, Student Doctor

Hannah Wheeless, Student Doctor

Sarah Wilcox, Student Doctor

Rima Yousuf, Student Doctor

Hillsborough Component

Patrick Derby, DPM

Shruti Dosi, DPM

Matthew Dougherty, DPM

Olesya Palko, DPM

Manasota Component

Bethany Badell, DPM

Jay Badell, DPM

Joseph Wolf, DPM

Northeast Florida Component

Joy Anderson, DPM

Mark Matey, DPM

Palm Beach Component

Elizabeth Murphy, DPM

Kristina Sikar, DPM

Pinellas Component

Zachery Barnett, DPM

John Constantino, DPM

St. Johns Component

Gabriela Hernandez, Resident

Tyler Sorensen, DPM

Leonard “Len” Levy, DPM, MPH

By Chet Evans, DPM

On February 21, 2023, the Florida Podiatric Medical Association lost an icon of our profession, Dr. Leonard “Len” Levy. His legacy to podiatric medicine and medical education looms large, but many members of FPMA do not know the full scope of his impact as a medical educator and passionate supporter of podiatric medicine.

When I arrived at the California College of Podiatric Medicine to begin my podiatric medical education, Dr. Levy had already served a stint as a dean there and later became president. However, he proved to be a strong leader and lifelong innovator for medical education in general, not just in podiatry.

Since he was one of the first podiatrists to earn a master’s in public health, many people are not aware that Leonard was instrumental in developing the Board certification process for podiatric public health. Although this Board did not last long, it was key in getting the profession recognized through the Podiatric Health Section of the APHA, for which he served as section chair. A few years later, I followed in his footsteps as section chair, and his forging the way made it that much easier. His inspiration motivated me to develop an MPH program at every institution I ever worked at, including a dual degree capability for Barry podiatric students.

I first got to know Dr. Levy during his tenure as the founding dean at the Des Moines College of Podiatric Medicine, when I had just become dean at Barry. Leonard was loved and respected and served as a great mentor to many of us, always picking up the phone when called and speaking to us regardless of how petty the issue was. He was a progressive advocate for podiatric medicine, constantly stressing the primary care aspects of our profession and our roles therein. Many of us remember reading his articles recommending doing vitals and blood pressures on all of our patients and counseling them accordingly. In the late ’80s and early ’90s, Leonard was involved in the evolution of the podiatric primary care residency concept, which was funded by the government for many years.

Len and I shared a love for Asian food and would frequently hold our meetings over lunch at a local Chinese establishment. He also enjoyed having his picture taken in front of them. Once, during an international podiatric

meeting in Gothenburg, Sweden, one of our colleagues suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the local hospital. My wife and I and Leonard went to visit him, and as we were walking out the front door of the hospital, the first thing on Leonard’s mind was locating a Chinese restaurant for dinner. Do you think we had trouble finding one? Not a problem for Leonard, even in Sweden!

Leonard was also a strong advocate for multidisciplinary health and medical education. I believe this was grounded in his involvement with osteopathic medicine at Des Moines, where he had founded the podiatric medical college, and having played vital roles beyond podiatric medical education. In his later years at Nova Southeastern University, he served as a vice president, representing all aspects of medical education and research, but always argued for the value of the DPM degree, believing it was just as valuable as the MD or DO in the medical education arena.

Dr. Levy was always a strong role model for me, and again, paved the way in that regard. It led me to, again, “follow in his footsteps” as a vice president for medical education and program development at an osteopathic medical health science center responsible for DO, PharmD, allied health and, ultimately, dental medical education. I later served as the chief health innovation officer for all health professions and pre-health advising at Rollins College. He always made it easy for the rest of us to follow.

Len’s presence, demeanor and fountain of knowledge will be missed but so will his sense of humor. He was the ultimate punster, and you never left a conversation without his coming up with one, as corny as some of them could be. He was truly an iconic member of our profession and was loved by many. I wish his family condolences, and I know that if there is a Chinese restaurant in the great beyond, he is there!

Dr. Louis J. Falletta passed away on February 13, 2023, at the age of 79. Dr. Falletta received his podiatric degree from the Kent State University School of Podiatric Medicine. He was a 50-year life member of FPMA and had a practice in Pompano Beach.

Dr. Irwin D. Feinman passed away on December 31, 2022, at the age of 92. Dr. Feinman was a longtime member of FPMA for 66 years. He received his podiatric degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine.

2023 FPMA Component Presidents

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

BROWARD

Dr. Adam J. Oxios

17013 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 (954) 450-4200 aoxios@gmail.com www.thebcpma.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. Peter J. Luthringer 680 Second Ave. N. Naples, FL 34102 (239) 262-6765, 262-1321 (FAX) luth1fl@yahoo.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

GULF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Dr. Bryan A. Spooner 1866 Buford Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 878-6998, 656-9293 (FAX) bas@tlhpodiatry.com

HERNANDO

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

HILLSBOROUGH

Dr. Zenobia A. Bowen

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

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

Pending

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA

Dr. Stephanie Frey

1500 SE Magnolia Ext., Ste. 201 Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 351-1555, 351-1330 (FAX) sfreydpm@aol.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

NORTHWEST FLORIDA

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

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

Membership Dues Information

By Gin Grand, FPMA Membership Coordinator

The FPMA dues renewal cycle is approaching. By May, FPMA members should be receiving their updated dues invoice for the fiscal year that runs from June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023.

The FPMA Dues Timeline is provided below. If an office administrator is responsible for handling your dues payment(s), please provide them with these dates to ensure a seamless invoicing process.

Where Do My Dues Go?

• Fifty-three percent of your dues contribute to membership with APMA. APMA and FPMA are two parts of a whole. We work in unison to provide an array of services for our mutual members. The dual membership model is designed for maximum impact and influence at local and federal levels.

• Forty percent of your dues contribute to membership with FPMA. FPMA member benefits include attendance of conferences at no cost, including 60-plus CECH offered through FPMA conferences during the current biennium, discounts for various services with our corporate affinity partners, networking and educational opportunities, and more.

• Seven percent of your dues contribute to membership with OPEIU/Guild 45. OPEIU represents employees and independent contractors in credit unions, hospitals and medical clinics, insurance, higher education, transportation, shipping, utilities, hotels, administrative offices and more.

Voluntary Contributions

• Florida Podiatry Political Committee (FPPC): The FPPC is the state-recognized independent arm of the Florida podiatry profession, created to provide financial election support to bipartisan candidates for the Florida House and Senate. One of the goals of the FPPC is to be sure that legislators are cognizant of the full scope of education, training and experience of podiatric physicians practicing in the state of Florida.

• Florida Podiatric Medical Society (FPMS): FPMS was formed by and for association membership to assist in procuring new sources of funding, which are used for scholarships, academic awards, research projects, public and professional education, disaster relief, and podiatric care for homeless and other medically underserved populations.

If you have questions pertaining to membership dues, please call FPMA at (850) 224-4085 or email Gin Grand at ggrand@fpma.com.

The Guild Continues to Work for Podiatry

By Terence D. McDonald, DPM

Over the past few years, the OPEIU Guild has strived to continue providing value for its members. In fact, the Guild Board worked to assist members during the financial crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic by suspending its dues to coincide with FPMA’s efforts.

I have fielded many inquiries about health insurance premium hikes that have occurred over the last few years. Although there is no easy explanation, the shortest and best answer I can offer is that rising premiums for OPEIU-sponsored health care plans has coincided with increases across the country and across the insurance industry. A small consolation may be that Florida podiatrists have had smaller increases than those in other Guild states. Furthermore, the premiums for OPEIU health coverage remain much less for the amount of coverage the average member receives. The Guild continues to explore possible ways to provide this coverage to members’ staff and employees.

If you have not taken advantage of the numerous benefits Guild membership has to offer, I urge you to access information via the FPMA website’s “OPEIU Guild Member Benefits” page located at www.fpma.com/opeiu_guild_member_benefits.php. The Guild provides several types of benefits, including:

1) Education benefits (i.e., college scholarships and a free college benefit)

2) Financial services (i.e., personal loans and credit counseling)

3) Insurance plans (i.e., life insurance and pet health insurance)

4) Health savings (i.e., prescription discounts and dental plans)

5) Auto savings (i.e., auto buying discounts and auto insurance)

6) Home-related benefits (i.e., real estate rewards and professional moving discounts)

7) Travel and fun discounts (i.e., car rentals and theme park admission tickets)

The OPEIU is able to provide buying power through its 125,000 members and affiliation with the 12 million members of the AFL-CIO. By virtue of membership in the Guild, Florida podiatrists have access to benefits ranging from identity theft protection to mortgage assistance. In fact, this past summer, I received a $500 rebate when I secured my home mortgage through Union Plus.

I encourage members to download the OPEIU app, which can be found in both the Android and Apple App stores for free. By downloading the app, members can explore the many benefits they have had for several years but never took advantage of. OPEIU Guild members are members of Local 45 (when asked about union affiliation).

The Guild continues to make your membership a value to you and your practice. In addition to all of the money-saving discounts and benefits offered, the Guild represents its members to CMS, Florida Blue and United Healthcare, and has fought for member issues in both Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. If you have any questions or suggestions about the Guild, please feel free to contact me.

Things I Learned from My Six-Month Job Search

By Matthew Miller, DPM

I graduated from the Augusta VA Residency Program on June 30, 2022. My residency director was a kind man who informed us residents that once you start working, you don’t stop working. He suggested taking some time off prior to looking for a job. Looking back, I think it was phenomenal advice.

So, I didn’t enter the workforce immediately and took three months off. I did two major things during this time: I went to the BakoDX Mini Fellowship in Atlanta, Georgia, to learn more about pathology, and I went backpacking with my dad in a foreign country for a month, something I had wanted to do since college. When I returned, I applied for my Florida podiatry license and received it in just two weeks. Upon receiving my PO license, I was a bit naïve and thought I would be able to find a job easily. I thought, “It will only take a month.” But one month turned into six months. Boy, was I wrong, but looking back, I learned so much!

The following are things I learned from my six-month job search, a lot of which I wish I had known earlier. I wrote this article in the hope that others can learn from my mistakes and that this advice helps them in their own job search journey.

1. Know what you want but have an open mind. When I first started looking for work, I wanted to seek a private practice job in Jacksonville, Florida, as Jacksonville was the only major Florida city that I had not lived in. I also had friends in that area. At this point, I thought I had my whole life figured out. Well, life didn’t play out that way. I then reconsidered — “Maybe I should stay in St. Pete and live with my mom, dad and sister.” Life did play out that way. I learned that had I been open to finding a job in any city in Florida, and any type of job, I probably would have found a job a lot faster.

2. Turn over all the rocks. When I first started my job search, I was scared. Part of me didn’t want to apply for every job in an area, but I learned there are always more opportunities popping up everywhere. And if you have multiple offers, it’s only going to put you in a better position. And if you don’t get a job, it’s a good idea to ask if they know of anyone hiring in the area (because chances are, they know someone). Turning over one rock can lead to more rocks to turn over. So, look into podiatry jobs, hospital jobs, ortho-group jobs, nursing home jobs, multi-specialty group jobs and wound care jobs as there are plenty of opportunities everywhere!

3. Relationships enrich your life (and your job search). Do you know what your most valuable possession in life is? No, it’s not your house or your car; it’s the relationships you have. Podiatry is a small field (they joke that everybody knows everybody), but that statement is not very far from the truth. If you have finished your residency, odds are you have some connections. You probably have college friends, podiatry school friends and residency friends. And all these people can help you. You’d be amazed at what can happen when you reach out to the people you know. One of the greatest gifts I received from my six-month job search is all the people I reconnected with!

4. Being Board-qualified and -certified helps. I came back from my backpacking trip in October. At the time, I didn’t know a thing about being

Board-qualified/certified. I later learned these tests are only offered in October and March (some are only offered in October for first-time test takers). You want to get one of these certifications, as it will make you a stronger job candidate. A lot of places want people with these qualifications. It’s not like Board parts I, II and III, where if you fail, you might have to put your life on hold for a year. Take these tests. And if they don’t work out, take them again. You are only going to get better and learn more about podiatry in the process.

5. Don’t take things personally.

If you are doing the life thing right, you are going to fail at some things. If you aren’t failing at things, then you aren’t doing things or trying new things. With the job search, as in life, anything you want to get better at, just do more of it! And always remember that getting feedback from others makes you a better candidate.

6. Attending conferences helps.

Of all the places I went, attending conferences helped the most with my job search. It’s a good idea to bring copies of your résumé and cover letter with you. Display your résumé on bulletin boards. Talk to everyone you know. Ask if they know of any people who are hiring. Reconnect with attendees you met as an extern. As an example, a classmate invited me to a wound care rep dinner; I met a rep from my area, and that rep knew of job openings in my area that were not posted on the internet.

7. Be positive, optimistic, happy, cheerful and polite. The same people who were great as externs are the same people who were great as residents and will be great as podiatry associates. Think of your favorite extern — what did you like about them? Those are the people who are going to get the best job opportunities. Change your perspective and look on the bright side. Optimists live longer than pessimists. And it just comes down to how you look at the world.

8. Drive around.

I always got way more opportunities driving around with a smile on my face and a folder full of résumés than I ever got playing the email game. Although this sounds like work (it is), if you go out of your way, it will get noticed. Part of job hunting is getting yourself out there and known by others. If you do it right the first time, it will most likely be a lot less work the second time. First impressions are important. Always look your best and be the best version of yourself.

9. A healthy mind is connected to a healthy body. If you have been on a job search for a couple of months, you might be a little stressed. I had real trouble sleeping for a few weeks. Exercise helps a lot. Whatever you want to do to get exercise, do it, even if it’s just walking. It will make you feel better, clear your mind, give you more energy and extend your life span. Exercising is an investment in yourself.

10. Don’t let the things you can’t control affect the things you can control. You don’t get the job. The company you want to work for is restructuring and all hiring is frozen. A hurricane is making you evacuate so you can’t apply for jobs at the moment. These are all things that happened to me. In life, things happen, and you can’t control that. What you can control is how you react to it.

11. Everything you give comes back to you in another form.

It took me 30 years to figure this out. If you help others, they will be more likely to pay it forward. And this makes the world a better place and the culture of podiatry a better profession for everyone!

12. In time, we will know the answers. We may not know the answers now, but we will know the answers in the future! You are not alone. There are people out there who have fought the same challenges as you and overcome them. And you will too.

I eventually found a job in my hometown. I found out about the job from someone I hadn’t seen since my externship year. He wasn’t hiring, but he told me about a job at a company where a friend of his worked. I applied and got the job, which allows me to live with my family and stay in my hometown. It is a new opportunity, and I am eager to see what becomes of it.

Here is some additional advice a friend gave me: “At the end of the day, if you were able to get into medical school and finish three years of residency, you are going to be successful. Don’t compare yourself to others. Give 110 percent in whatever you do and wherever you practice, and you will shine. And in a few years, working for anybody will give you the job experience you need to move on to bigger and better things.”

Remember, every day that passes is another day closer to you getting an amazing job. You just have to be open to it. Believe me, there is an amazing job waiting for you just around the corner.

Public Affairs Committee Sock Distribution

Following up on their 2021 sock distribution, FPMA Public Affairs Committee members once again purchased socks to distribute to various charitable organizations in Florida.

Giving Back to the Profession

By Terence D. McDonald, DPM

The ongoing mission of the Florida Podiatric Medical Society (FPMS) is to support the podiatric profession in Florida through philanthropy. The society promotes the education of podiatric medical students while educating the Florida public and furthering awareness of our profession to the medical community. It is these objectives that have guided the Society’s work with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), provided numerous student scholarships to the Barry School of Podiatry students and promoted interaction with Florida Foot and Ankle fellowships.

Through the years, the Society has impacted numerous Barry students by awarding scholarships, distributing Watkins’ Manuals, and providing ultrasound machines and IV teaching aids. Over the many years I have served on the FPMS Board, the Society has donated thousands of dollars to the ADA for research, promoted patient

advocacy and contributed to Florida Diabetes Camps, which provide a safe place for young diabetic children to enjoy the normalcy of summer camp. The Society has also encouraged Florida podiatrists to attend Florida Special Olympics activities and volunteer their time at events. The Society has provided valuable funding for several indigent clinics in Florida, allowing them to provide orthotics to the most inneed adolescents, who would not otherwise have access to them.

On behalf of the Society’s Board of Directors, thank you for your support. We are proud to represent the FPMA and its members, who have given so generously over the years. Our mission goes on and continues to expand. The need is great, and the work can only progress through your continued support.

May you always have these blessings:

A soft breeze — when summer comes

A warm fireside — in winter

And always the warm, soft smile of a friend.

TPE Update and Other Developments

By Mark S. Block, DPM

The TPE initiative is a more providerfriendly approach than a traditional audit. In the past, a global audit, prepayment review or requests for documentation occurred.

My article in last fall’s issue of FPMA Footprints covered the TPE initiative. Another audit has been added to the list since that time. This TPE initiative references 11042. I touched upon 11042 during my lecture presented at SAM 2023, and I intend to provide substantive updates, if applicable. It is likely that in the future, TPE will be addressing additional procedures/codes. Therefore, I feel it necessary to reemphasize some of my takeaway points.

My previous article specifically pointed out that a number of providers had been notified that they were selected for an audit/TPE regarding: “at risk foot care services.” This initiative is designed to afford providers the opportunity to improve their understanding of requirements for specific billed procedures. I provided the detailed background, process and expectations associated with these audits during my recent SAM 2023 lecture.

The TPE initiative is a more provider-friendly approach than a traditional audit. In the past, a global audit, prepayment review or requests for documentation occurred. All providers submitting specific codes, regardless of their utilization patterns, were impacted. The TPE initiative targets selected providers who are “perceived” to be initially aberrant when compared to their peers.

I want to emphasize receiving notification of a TPE audit should not be construed as an indication that a provider is “out of compliance.” It is, however, an opportunity for the carrier to understand the specific elements classifying a provider as an outlier. If, upon initial investigation, their billing pattern is substantiated and in conformity, the probe for that procedure/code will end. If found deficient, a provider is given the opportunity to improve. Another advantage of this initiative is the ability and opportunity for a provider to be brought into compliance via education, with the end goal of avoiding an in-depth audit.

Many who have experienced the TPE process found the assigned reviewer receptive and engaged, working with the provider. They are tasked with educating and suggesting guidance to avoid additional chart reviews

and monetary penalties (refunds, etc.). If a provider receives a notice of a TPE audit, they should comply with the instructions and provide the information on a timely basis. It should also be understood that this initiative does not target specific provider types but rather specific billings/procedures.

Another developing, but not yet finalized, subject deals with RPM/RTM (remote patient monitoring/ remote therapeutic monitoring). I was selected by FCSO/NOVITAS as a panel expert to review subject matter (articles, studies, publications, etc.) and participate in a meeting presenting my findings, as well as submitting feedback for RPM/RTM. Others were selected, including those representing various other specialties, along with several podiatric physicians from NOVITAS. After analysis, our focus targeted RPM, since it was more applicable to podiatric medicine than RTM.

This “Subject Matter Expert” panel culminated in a two-hour Zoom-type meeting that took place the evening of February 28. The meeting was attended by several hundred observers. A structured group of questions and areas of interest were addressed by the moderator. The selected group, including myself, commented on our analysis of the literature and understanding of the subject matter, its validity, attributes and/or issues of significance.

The intent of this meeting was to gather information that would assist, substantiate and validate efficacy, as well as meet coverage criteria and guidelines. I, along with several others speaking as representatives for our specialty, had numerous meetings over the past few months to prepare. APMA was instrumental in

coordinating podiatric medicine’s response and (at the time of this writing) we are planning on sending additional comments and information to the carriers in support of our findings. My views were shared with others, and it appears that our analysis, evaluation of the studies, etc., supports the efficacy of RPM for our patient population when used appropriately.

Hopefully, based on the feedback I and others provided, any resulting policy will address foot and ankle care, which will lead to improved patient outcomes. For clarification purposes, as noted, there were other specialties and stakeholders who participated. Although they were supportive of RPM/ RTM, for the most part they are specialty specific. Therefore, I feel fortunate that I along with several others/APMA were afforded the opportunity to participate and present. Otherwise, our patients’ needs

and the ability of our profession to provide RPM/RTM likely would not have had support or been heard.

It is too soon to determine the carrier’s decision. They have several options available as they develop rules, guidelines and decisions, so we may not receive a final decision for some time.

Before concluding, I want to reiterate that I was recently successful in getting FCSO to agree to add Z79.01— long-term (current) use of anticoagulants. This is an additional DX code, which, under the appropriate circumstances, is applicable for “anticoagulation therapy,” “Routine Foot Care LCD/ Article (A57188).”

As with all developing significant issues, I will keep the membership updated as needed.

FPMA Diabetic Foot/Shoes Outreach Project

By Chris Hansen, FPMA Lobbyist

The month of April is always important to podiatrists across the country as it is National Foot Health Awareness Month. This year, FPMA has plans to make April 2023 memorable. FPMA is working with Gov. Ron DeSantis on a lower extremity proclamation, a legislative advocacy day at the Capitol and will seek funding through a legislative appropriation for a diabetic foot/ shoes outreach project.

FPMA leaders and interested Barry University students gathered in Tallahassee on April 3 and 4, 2023, to promote proper foot care and advocate for diabetic foot/shoes funding. In January 2023, the FPMA lobby team met with Rep. Melony Bell (R-Fort Meade) and Sen. Corey Simon (R-Tallahassee) and secured their support in fighting for the funding to bring this important program to needy Floridians. These two legislators will be our champions for this year’s 60-day session.

The purpose of this program is to bring awareness to and relief of diabetic foot disease. If approved by the legislature, the funding will be used to provide preventative foot care, along with proper shoes and

proactive foot education and instruction. With the proper diabetic shoes, there will be a reduction in skin breakdowns, which often lead to further complications and possible hospitalization.

If our foot health awareness messaging, grassroots advocacy and legislative session lobbying efforts are successful, many vulnerable Floridians will benefit. And our role in delivery of care to the lower extremities will be demonstrated from Pensacola to Key West.

Florida Legislative Session Dates: March 7, 2023, to May 5, 2023.

Another developing, but not yet finalized, subject deals with RPM/RTM (remote patient monitoring/ remote therapeutic monitoring).

Rep. Melony Bell Sen. Corey Simon

Telehealth REVISITED – Can I Call You?

By Jason D. Winn, Esq., FPMA General Counsel

During the 2023 Florida legislative session, bills have been filed in both the House and Senate that address the standards for telehealth practice.

A lot has happened over the past several years concerning telehealth. Technology has improved, a global pandemic took place and the delivery of medicine has changed. Now it is within the standard of care to establish a podiatric physician/patient relationship through the use of telehealth. A telehealth provider has the duty to practice in a manner consistent with their scope of practice and the prevailing professional standard of practice for a health care professional who provides in-person health care services to patients in this state.

During the 2019 legislative session, Florida passed Chapter 2019-137, Laws of Florida (laws.flrules. org/2019/137), which establishes standards of practice for telehealth services, including patient evaluations, record keeping and controlled substances prescribing. The law also authorizes out-of-state health care practitioners to perform telehealth services for patients in Florida. Signed by the governor on June 25, 2019, this law became 456.47(F.S. 2019) effective on July 1, 2019. Then during the 2022 legislative session, SB 312 allowed for the prescribing of controlled substances III-IV through telehealth (456.47(2)(c), (F.S. 2022)).

During the 2023 Florida legislative session, bills have been filed in both the House and Senate that address the standards for telehealth practice. FPMA is monitoring these bills and will continue to update membership on the passage of any bill affecting the practice of podiatric medicine, including telehealth.

So, what is telehealth? Telehealth is not a phone call, text message, email or fax transmission. Telehealth is defined as the use of synchronous (real-time information sharing) or asynchronous (relay of information with lag time) telecommunications technology by a telehealth provider to provide health care services including, but not limited to, the assessment, diagnosis, consultation, treatment and monitoring of a patient; transfer of medical data; patient and professional health-related education; public health services; and health administration.

Can I use telehealth to treat anything, including above the knee diagnosis? No. A telehealth provider must practice in a manner consistent with their scope of practice and the prevailing professional standard of practice for a health care professional who provides in-person health care services to patients in Florida. Ultimately, any decision regarding the standard of care would be resolved through the administrative process.

Do I have to conduct a physical, in-person examination of the patient before treating through telehealth? No. A telehealth provider may use telehealth to perform a patient evaluation. If a telehealth provider conducts a patient evaluation sufficient to diagnose and treat the patient, the telehealth provider is not required to research a patient’s medical history or conduct a physical examination of the patient before using telehealth to provide health care services to the patient.

Do I need to keep medical records for telehealth? Yes. Telehealth providers must use the same standard of maintaining patient medical records as used for inperson services. They must also keep medical records confidential, as required in ss. 395.3025(4) (F.S. 2022).

Great, so can I write controlled substances? Yes, for Schedule 3-5. No, for Schedule 2, unless one of the four exceptions applies: It is allowed for 1) psychiatric disorders; 2) in-patient treatment at a hospital; 3) hospice services; or 4) a nursing home facility. Again,

the standards of care prevail and require additional scrutiny when prescribing controlled substances. See 456.44 (F.S. 2022).

Do I need to do anything before using telehealth?

No. If you are a Florida-licensed podiatric physician, you can perform telehealth on Florida patients now! If you are an out-of-state licensee, you can apply for an out-of-state telehealth provider registration. (It’s FREE!) As a licensee or registrant, you can perform telehealth services only on patients in Florida. In order to treat patients outside of Florida through telehealth, you should contact the state in which the patient is located and comply with their laws and rules.

The 2023 Florida legislative session could bring with it additional changes to the ways you can treat your patients through telehealth. As currently written, phone calls or audio-only communications between a patient and a health care practitioner are not considered telehealth. However, this could change — but audio-only is currently not considered telehealth! Again, FPMA is monitoring any potential changes to the telehealth law and will continue to update our membership as any laws take effect.

With the ever-expanding use of telehealth, providing care to patients through telehealth is a wonderful asset. Allowing patients to receive treatment without having to travel to medical offices is beneficial to both the patient and the provider. Ensuring compliance with the standards of care, including record keeping, will help protect your patients.

For more information, please visit: www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth and www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth/faqs.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The information contained herein is provided to you “AS IS,” does not constitute legal advice, and is governed by our Terms and Conditions of Use. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information.

The FPMA, its employees, agents or others who provide information on or through this will not be liable or responsible to you for any claim, loss, injury, liability or damages related to your use of this information. Seeking the advice of competent legal counsel is recommended.

As currently written, phone calls or audio-only communications between a patient and a health care practitioner are not considered telehealth.

Live, Virtual or Home Study? Know Before You Go!

By Jason D. Winn, Esq., FPMA General Counsel

All Florida licensed podiatric physicians must renew their licenses every two years (i.e., biennium), and the current biennium ends on March 31, 2024. In order to renew your current license, you must complete all of the CE requirements, totaling 40 hours, during the current biennium period. All hours must be submitted to CE Broker in order to receive credit for attendance. However, not all courses are accepted by CE Broker, so know before you go!

All continuing education hours presented by the Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA) are approved for CECH credit by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine (the Board) and CE Broker. The CECH earned by attending and completing any courses through the FPMA will automatically be reported to CE Broker on your behalf. However, FPMA cannot guarantee that a course outside of the FPMA will be accepted by CE Broker. Before you attend any CE course, it is important to make sure the course is approved by the Board and CE Broker. If a course is not approved, then you will not receive CE credit toward renewing your license.

The Board has rules that address CE credit for renewal: 64B18-17 Continuing Education (F.A.C.). During the 2020 to 2022 biennium, the Board amended these rules to allow for all hours to be completed through home study courses. Specifically, 64B18-17.001(4) stated:

“For the 2020-2022 biennial renewal period, there shall be no cap on the number of credit hours that a licensed podiatric physician may receive for continuing education hours obtained through home study continuing education programs.”

However, that allowance ended on April 1, 2022, when the new biennium began.

On February 21, 2023, the Board published the proposed rule for continuing education requirements for license renewal. However, the rule is not yet effective at the time

of writing this article. The proposed language addresses the methods in which a licensee can receive their CE hours for the current and future bienniums.

The proposed language would require a licensed podiatric physician to complete a total of 40 hours. Licensees shall complete a minimum of 32 hours via live in-person or live interactive virtual events of professional continuing education, according to the criteria set forth in these rules. A maximum of eight hours of continuing professional education may be earned from courses involving home study or anytime courses.

The Board proposes language to define home study or anytime courses:

Home Study or Anytime courses are independent studies that require a certificate of completion and an examination. These courses are not date-time specific and do not allow for interaction with a presenter or host.

Live in-person or live interactive virtual events consist of, but are not limited to, live webinars, live teleconferences or interactive online-based applications that allow or require the licensee to interact or communicate back and forth with the instructor during the presentation of the program.

This language has not been approved by the Board at the time of writing this article. While there may be an opportunity to attend and complete CE hours through virtual methods, the requirement that the hours be approved by the Board and CE Broker still stands. Again, if you are attending a CE course outside of the FPMA, it is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure that the CECH is approved by the Board and CE Broker. Taking a CE course that is not approved will result in the hours not being accepted by CE Broker.

FPMA provides CE opportunities in person during the SAM and Summer conferences each year. All hours attended and completed through the FPMA are approved by the Board and accepted by CE Broker. Know before you go!

On February 21, 2023, the Board published the proposed rule for continuing education requirements for license renewal. However, the rule is not yet effective at the time of writing this article.

Fellowship Training in Florida: Florida Foot and Ankle Fellowship Society (FFAFS)

By Andrew M. Belis, DPM, and Adam D. Perler, DPM

What Are Podiatric Fellowships?

Fellowships have spilled over into podiatric medical education, much like in the orthopedic world. This training is intended to extend, enhance and diversify a podiatrist’s surgical and clinical training after completion of their podiatric residency. A Podiatric Fellowship allows a graduating resident to have a mentor who can provide guidance, resources and opportunities for success. From a surgical standpoint, many times this additional experience allows a fine-tuning of residents’ skillsets and/or allows them to be exposed to different procedures or techniques that may not have been available during their residencies. The pursuit of a fellowship also affords each young practitioner the opportunity to focus their educational efforts on subspecialties, such as diabetic limb salvage, podopediatrics, total ankle arthroplasty, sports medicine, complex deformity correction, etc.

Why Was the FFAFS Started?

Throughout my career, I have always been interested in expanding educational opportunities for young podiatrists. When I completed my training, most of the education was focused more on a hospital-based environment and less on

clinical or private practice experience. Although there are many podiatric residency programs offering excellent experience in both areas, I was noting deficiencies in many of the graduates I met who were applying for jobs. My practice at the Orthopedic Center of Florida in Fort Myers is extremely diverse and the surgical procedures we are performing are quite advanced.

I felt compelled to explore the option of opening a residency program in my region. My hospital system was not very favorable toward helping me set up a residency program; perhaps a fellowship was the solution to this issue. As a result, I started my own fellowship program and quickly gained a recognized status by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). After speaking with one of my colleagues (and now close friend), Dr. Adam Perler, I discovered he felt similar challenges. Dr. Perler had helped to initiate one of the oldest existing fellowship programs in Indianapolis, Indiana, and was looking to start another fellowship based out of his new orthopedic group when he relocated to Florida. We had numerous discussions concerning most of the podiatric fellowship programs (outside

of CPME-approved programs), which were self-funded, thus creating an economic barrier.

All CPME-approved fellowships are funded either through a hospital system or institution, but in our cases, our communities didn’t seem to have an interest in this approach. The economic burden of starting a privately funded fellowship can be quite substantial and there needed to be another avenue for fundraising. As fellowship training opportunities have expanded nationally, the industry has taken notice and has looked for ways to help support these activities. The problem: How does a company financially support podiatric fellowships without sponsoring each one individually? When we approached different key players in our industry, they were really intrigued but ultimately required a pathway that would meet strict criteria, follow regulatory guidelines and create equal opportunity funding via educational grants to avoid “playing favorites.”

This sparked an idea to coordinate with the Florida Podiatric Medical Association

Continued on next page

(FPMA)/Florida Podiatric Medical Society (FPMS) to create a society with all the fellowships in the state that met strict minimal guidelines benefiting the fellow’s experience. Dr. Perler and I proposed a collaboration between the newly formed FFAFS, which would seek to provide a platform of open communication and coordination among the founding FFAFS members, and FPMA/FPMS. Thus, the new Florida fellowship initiative was set into motion.

How Was the FFAFS Started?

In 2018, while I was serving as president of the Florida Podiatric Medical Association, I created an ad hoc exploration committee that included myself, Dr. Perler, FPMA Executive Director Karen Lambert and members of FPMA/FPMS to evaluate a possible, mutually beneficial relationship between the state society and fellowships (both CPME-approved and ACFAS-recognized) across the state of Florida. The goals of this committee were to determine the feasibility of an entity that would act as an advisory Board for Florida state fellowships and, if successful, continue to

foster the educational components of this partnership. Although FPMA leadership was very apprehensive at first, as Dr. Perler, the other fellowship site directors and I have demonstrated the success and benefits of such a partnership, it has continued to grow.

FPMA and industry support has been overwhelmingly positive for this “firstof-its-kind” society. No other state has approached the recognition, support and integration of podiatric fellowship training in the way that Florida has, and other states have taken notice. The popularity and effectiveness of FFAFS continue to improve with our monthly webinar series and our fellowship lecture involvement in FPMA’s annual SAM Conference. Our fellows routinely collaborate with each other and have expanded their professional network exponentially.

What’s Next for Fellowships and the FFAFS?

The unique collaboration with FPMA is catching the eyes of directors from other states, where some have expressed interest in learning more about our FFAFS initiative. We have included

fellowship directors and their fellows from other states to be guest contributors to our monthly webinars and roundtable sessions. The FFAFS monthly Roundtable of Excellence webinar series is in its second year, has been extremely wellreceived and is free for anyone to attend. The calendar and schedule for this webinar series can be found on the FFAFS page of the FPMA website at www.fpma. com/florida_foot_ankle_fellowshi.php .

All past lectures have been recorded and are available for review at any time on the FFAFS webpage. In addition, the industry desires to be more involved in fellowship training because they see fellowship-trained physicians as the future leaders of the profession. Both fellowship directors and fellows are often tapped for lecturing opportunities, academic studies, or creating new techniques or products. Having a mentor who has navigated this process will prepare a fellow for the future with more of the skillsets needed.

Fellowships are expanding and new fellowships are starting. Each of our programs holds the other to a higher and higher standard. Directors share ideas and collaborate on projects, and this in turn helps the individual programs expand and improve. The quality of residents and fellows continues to rise, which is preparing our profession to be the best choice for lower extremity care in the future. FPMA/FPMS’s support of fellowship is a clear sign that the future of our profession is being placed in great hands.

Andrew M. Belis, DPM, FACFAS, FASPS

Orthopedic Center of Florida

Fort Myers, Florida

www.ocfla.net

Adam D. Perler, DPM, FACFAS

Alexander Orthopaedic Associates

St. Petersburg, Florida

www.adamperler.com

January 18, 2020 — First fellowship lecture track at SAM 2020

FPMA Delegation Attends 2023 APMA House of Delegates

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

Karan Sharma, APMSA president, addressed the HOD on Saturday, expressing gratitude to APMA for its support of students. “Thank you for paving the way for us, and for your unwavering commitment to our profession,” Sharma said. “Only by working together can we ensure that our profession continues to thrive.”

The APMA House of Delegates (HOD) is the legislative and governing body of APMA and is composed of certified delegates and alternates from each component society and the American Podiatric Medical Students’ Association (APMSA). The Florida Delegation, consisting of 13 delegates and alternates, along with FPMA CEO/Executive Director Karen Lambert, attended the annual APMA House of Delegates, which took place in Washington, D.C., March 18-19.

On Saturday, March 18, Sylvia Virbulis, DPM, of North Carolina was installed as the 97th APMA president by Carroll D. Kratzer, DPM. Dr. Virbulis spoke about her goals and the agenda for her presidency and encouraged HOD attendees to get involved with young people interested in podiatry: “Please be a mentor. Open your experience to our hopefuls and encourage them — you are the best ambassadors — you are the key to this success. I will welcome continued communication with the colleges and deans and encourage their fraternal communication.”

Awards were presented on Saturday during the HOD. Barney A. Greenberg, DPM, life member of FPMA, received the Distinguished Service Citation. The Distinguished Service Citation is APMA’s highest honor, presented in recognition of outstanding sustained accomplishments on the national level in scientific, professional or civic endeavors. Congratulations, Dr. Greenberg!

HOD guest speakers included Ira Monka, DO, president-elect of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), and Thomas J. Madejski, MD, Board member of the American Medical Association (AMA). Each spoke about similar goals their organizations have with APMA, including inspiring youth to get involved in their respective professions. They also emphasized the collaborative work between APMA and their organizations, representing shared interests with a unified voice.

On Sunday, APMA Trustee Patrick A. DeHeer, DPM, presented a plan from the Student Recruitment Task Force to aggressively tackle the student recruitment crisis, followed by an update from APMA Trustee David B. Alper, DPM, on the work APMA is doing to engage current podiatric medical students through APMA’s Student Engagement Committee. Finally, Membership Committee Chair Robert Sage, DPM, shared a critical update on APMA’s Member Engagement initiative to help grow and strengthen the association’s membership. APMA’s goal is to enhance the way they connect with prospective and current students, along with members in every stage of their career.

FPMA thanks the following FPMA Delegation members for representing our organization at the HOD: Drs. Mark Block, Edward Fazekas, Robert Frimmel, Dennis Frisch, John Goggin, Terence McDonald (chief delegate), David Schweibish, Andre Williams, Alissa Zdancewicz, Cary Zinkin, and alternates Drs. Bradley Haves and Larissa Schmidt. A special thanks also goes out to CEO/Executive Director Karen Lambert for her assistance in planning attendance of this event.

FPMA Life Member Dr. Barney Greenberg was presented with the Distinguished Service Citation by Laura J. Pickard, DPM, outgoing APMA president, during the 2023 HOD. Photo courtesy of APMA.

FPMA Delegation members congratulate Dr. Barney Greenberg, with wife Lynne, for receiving the APMA Distinguished Service Citation.

FPMA Delegation members and alternates (left to right): Front row: Drs. Mark Block, Terence McDonald, Andre Williams, Bradley Haves, FPMA CEO/Executive Director Karen Lambert and Dr. Robert Frimmel. Back row: Drs. David Schweibish (FPMA vice president), Larissa Schmidt (FPMA president-elect), John Goggin, Cary Zinkin, Dennis Frisch, Alissa Zdancewicz (FPMA president) and Dr. Edward Fazekas.

What Does FPPC Do for You?

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

The Florida Podiatry Political Committee (FPPC) is the Florida state recognized independent arm of FPMA, created to provide financial support to bipartisan candidates for the Florida House and Senate. These officials decide how podiatric medicine is practiced in Florida.

FPPC Legislative Goals

• Continue to protect the current Podiatry Practice Act — F.S. 461

• Support “Any Willing Provider” legislation and sponsors

• Explore legislative support for “Physician Payment Parity” bill

• Lobbying defense against adverse practice legislation

• Provide campaign assistance to pro-podiatry legislators

The FPPC is made up of your colleagues, Florida podiatric physicians. FPMA lobbyists Chris Hansen and Jason Winn

suggest bipartisan candidates and incumbents who are supportive of podiatric issues and challenges. After review of their suggestions by the FPMA Legislative Committee, the decision to contribute to candidates is finalized.

The Florida Podiatry PC created a Podiatric Fact Sheet, which is supplied to all of the candidates FPMA supports, so that when they are faced with medical legislation, Florida podiatry will be included. This fact sheet, along with links to other information about FPPC, is available on the FPMA website Advocacy page at www.fpma.com/advocacy.php .

FPPC Victories

• Expanded Practice Act for surgery to the tibial tubercle and defeated legislation reducing practice scope to “Foot and Ankle”

• Changed Florida statutes from “Podiatry” to “Podiatric Physician”

• Insurance Statutes — Direct podiatry access without referral

• Successfully kept podiatrists included in the Medicaid budget

• Had a 90 percent success rate in electing PAC-supported candidates

How You Can Contribute to FPPC

FPPC protects your practice rights and is involved in:

• Legislative advocacy

• Insurance advocacy

• Regulatory advocacy

• Legislator DPM education

• Podiatry statute defense

There are various ways you can make a contribution to FPPC:

• FPMA members can include a contribution to FPPC when making their annual dues payment (a voluntary contribution amount of $125.00 is listed on the dues invoice and can be included with the dues payment).

• Text “podiatrypac” to 22525.

• You can donate anytime to the FPPC by going to secure. anedot.com/florida-podiatry-political-committee-floridapodiatry-pc/donate. This link is available on the FPMA website Advocacy page.

• Donate anytime by scanning the following QR code.

Please consider contributing to FPPC. Your livelihood and the podiatric profession depend on it.

FPMA 2023 Summer Conference June

Physician

Please use a separate form for each registrant. Some events may require separate fees. All communications regarding the FPMA 2023 Summer Conference coming from FPMA or exhibitors who purchase or capture registrant data on-site will be sent to the contact information provided below.

NOTE: Contact information provided here will be sent to exhibitors and sponsors. If you do not wish to give access to this information, please check the box. Opt out of email communications with exhibitors and sponsors.

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 provide details, and/or list any food allergies/dietary restrictions, here:

Guest Badge

(Check to reserve)

Guest badges are limited to one per attendee and are only for immediate family members aged 18+. Badges are required for access into the Exhibit Hall. All guests must be accompanied by a registered Summer Conference attendee.

Registration Fees and Payment

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 May 25, 2023. Refunds will be processed after the event. No refunds available for no-shows or cancellations received after May 25, 2023.

Room rate (double, single occupancy): $209.00 For reservations, contact 1-800-233-1234

To make reservations on-line, access the link at https://www.fpma.com/fpma_2023_summer_conference.php Reservation

Attendee Information

Last Name

Physician/Employer Name

Address

Phone (daytime)

Please use a separate form for each registrant.

PXA License #

Assistant Email (all information will be sent here)

Per the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, check here if you have a disability and may require accommodations to participate fully. Please provide details, and/or list any food allergies/dietary restrictions, here:

Registration Fees and Payment

The X-Ray Assistant program consists of an 8-hour course on June 10, 2023 and an examination (for Initial Licensure ONLY) on June 11, 2023.

X-Ray Assistant Registration

Initial course for certification by the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine

Recertification: Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine

Address (if different from above)

Please make checks payable to: Florida Podiatric Medical Society

Address: 3375-F Capital Circle NE Suite 201 Tallahassee, FL 32308

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.

• The X-Ray Assistant program is limited to 90 attendees.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be made in writing and received by May 25, 2023. Refunds will be processed after the event. No refunds available for no-shows or cancellations received after May 25, 2023.

Hotel Information

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa 5001 Coconut Road

Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Room rate (double, single occupancy): $209.00 For reservations, contact 1-800-233-1234

To make reservations on-line, access the link at https://www.fpma.com/fpma_2023_summer_conference.php

Reservation Deadline: May 18, 2023

RECAP

By Becky Reese, FPMA Public Affairs/Website Coordinator

SAM 2023 took place a little later than usual this year. The conference, which returned to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, ran from Wednesday, February 1, through Sunday, February 5, 2023. In addition to podiatric physicians, separate conference programs were offered for podiatric medical assistants and initial/recert podiatric X-ray assistants.

The FPMA General Membership Meeting (GMM) and annual election of officers took place the afternoon of Wednesday, February 1, after a day of scientific lectures. Members of the 2023 FPMA Executive Committee were sworn in during the GMM and include:

• Dr. Larissa M. Schmidt, President-Elect

• Dr. David M. Schweibish, Vice President

• Dr. Adriana P. Strimbu, Treasurer

• Dr. Liana G. Seldin, Secretary

A reception took place after the GMM, providing attendees an opportunity to mingle and socialize with their peers.

The 19th annual SAM Residents Forum took place on-site, in person during SAM 2023 on Friday, February 3. A total of seven resident case presentations were submitted by representatives from residencies throughout the state. The three winning case presentations included:

• First Place: Zohaib Moon, DPM, of Northwest Medical Center for the entry titled “Putting It on Autopilot – Use of Automated, External Fixation Struts for Equinovarus Correction”

• Second Place: Tiffany Cerda, DPM, of Mercy Hospital/Barry University for the entry titled “Management of Multiple Complications with Tibia Fracture”

• Third Place: Marika Jackson, DPM, of Jackson North Medical Center for the entry titled “Fixation of Posterior Malleolus Fracture”

The sixth annual SAM Poster Competition took place during the conference as well. A total of 24 posters were submitted by podiatric residents and fellows, and the posters were displayed in the SAM 2023 exhibit hall for all SAM attendees to view. The five winning posters included:

• First Place: Valentina Clinton, DPM, for the entry titled “Severe Hallux Valgus with Osteochondroma”

• Second Place: Phillip Calaj, DPM, for the entry titled “A Novel Case of Non-Infectious Soft Tissue Emphysema of the Lower Extremity”

• Third Place: Phillip Calaj, DPM, for the entry titled “Osteochondroma of the Ankle”

• Fourth Place: Jay Badell, DPM, for the entry titled “Cobalt Free Custom Printed Total Ankle Implant in Patient with Metal Allergy”

• Fifth Place: Marika Jackson, DPM, for the entry titled “Surgical Treatment of Lower Extremity Soft Tissue Malignancies

Utilizing Keystone Flap”

FPMA congratulates the winners of these two competitions and is proud to support young practitioners in striving for podiatric education and advancing the profession.

Additional events that took place during SAM 2023 included a Women in Podiatry Breakfast and Non-CECH Breakfast Symposia. On Saturday, February 4, SAM attendees enjoyed the FPMA Annual Presidential Reception, which took place on-site at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The theme of the evening was “A Night in Paris” and attendees enjoyed cancan dancers, violin solos, refreshments and dancing. Dr. Alissa Zdancewicz, FPMA’s new president, was sworn in during the event.

The FPMA annual awards ceremony was also held during the FPMA Annual Presidential Reception. The following recipients were honored for their outstanding contributions, continued leadership and dedicated service:

• Dr. Andrew M. Belis – Meritorious Service Award

• Dr. Robert Frimmel – Lifetime Achievement Award

• Dr. Dennis R. Frisch – Lifetime Achievement Award

• Dr. John P. Goggin – Podiatric Physician of the Year

• Karen N. Lambert, FPMA CEO/Executive Director –President’s Award

The SAM 2023 exhibit hall was open Thursday through Saturday during the conference, with 140 exhibitors participating. This year’s exhibit hall had a new, more spread out layout to improve traffic flow. FPMA also replaced the usual SAM attendee box lunches with new food bars for the expanded, three-hour SAM attendee lunch break in the exhibit hall. Non-CECH Learning Labs were also provided by several exhibitors for SAM attendees. FPMA would like to thank all SAM 2023 sponsors and exhibitors for their support.

Thanks also go out to FPMA Convention Committee members, including General Co-Chairs Dr. Dennis Frisch and Dr. Robert Frimmel, Dr. Samir Vakil, Dr. Andrew Belis, Dr. Joseph Agostinelli, Dr. John Goggin, Dr. John Baker and Dr. Larissa Schmidt.

The FPMA CEO/executive director and staff, who worked hard organizing SAM 2023 during the months leading up to the event as well as on-site during the conference, included Karen Lambert, Becky Reese, Gin Grand, Andy Jean-Baptiste and Dee Muller. They were assisted by Doug Lambert, Sarah Lambert, FPMA member volunteers, and Barry student volunteers.

We look forward to seeing you at SAM 2024, which will take place at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on January 24-28, 2024.

EXHIBIT HALL

GMM & RECEPTION

PRESIDENTIAL RECEPTION

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