Dr. John Stevenson and Dr. Thomas McCabe receive the 2025 Service Award at the 109th Ohio Annual Scientific Seminar
President’s Column: A Word from the President
Martin
Lesnak, DPM
When I first joined OHFAMA, I was looking for a way to stay current with continuing education and to connect with other DPMs in Ohio. I found so much more: a supportive community, a voice in the statehouse for our profession, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
At my local North Central Academy meetings, I always had a great time connecting with my friends and colleagues at my favorite restaurants. By visiting each of the local academies as OHFAMA President, I have now experienced the exponential power of OHFAMA membership. I understand the true reach and strength of OHFAMA. We have so many
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DPM members statewide (over 60% of licensed podiatrists!), who care about their patients, their community, and the future of podiatric medicine. From Cincinnati to Cleveland, I see the impact we make on our profession.
Now is a great time to be a member of OHFAMA. We are celebrating another successful Annual Scientific Seminar and gearing up for the Wound Care Seminar this November. Our partners at APMA are spreading the word nationwide about podiatric medicine to consumers, and our members are sharing their experiences in their communities. As you see your patients every day, know that OHFAMA is here to support you, whether you’re dealing with an insurance challenge or looking for camaraderie and connection.
As part of OHFAMA’s Stronger Together Membership Drive, we invite new members to experience all that OHFAMA has to offer: education, community, advocacy, and member-only savings. If you know anyone who isn’t a member but should be, please invite them to join!
OHFAMA continues to be the professional home for DPMs in Ohio, and we’re grateful for your continued support.
This fall, I will continue my state tour to visit the rest of the academies. I look forward to discussing your concerns and ideas. If there is one thing I’ve learned by visiting each academy, it’s that we truly are stronger together!
Dr. Martin Lesnak, President
Executive Director’s Message
Luci Ridolfo, CAE
We are stronger together. As Executive Director, I frequently discuss the benefits of OHFAMA: membership, including education, community, and advocacy. For me, the Annual Ohio Foot and Ankle Scientific Seminar always highlights the importance of our medical community.
I love hearing the cutting-edge CME programming and seeing our attendees network and connect. It is exciting to see so many podiatric physicians gathered at once, and it’s also a lot of fun! While you’re reading, be sure to check out the recap of the Annual Scientific Seminar in this issue. You might spot some familiar faces in the seminar snapshots. In this installment of the OHFAMA Journal, you’ll also find several pieces about student recruitment. The American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine is actively conducting outreach to universities as part of the Feet on the Street campaign, thanks to members like you. Additionally, our national component, the American College of Podiatric Medicine, has launched a Podiatrists Move the World media campaign to share the podiatric medicine pathway with potential students and the public. You’ll find ways you can help boost the campaign in this issue as well. We are stronger together, and that starts with sharing the benefits of a career in podiatric medicine!
Inspired by the concerns regarding student recruitment, OHFAMA created and implemented a student recruitment program at the Annual Scientific Seminar. Interested students joined our members for a day of learning that included hands-on workshops, time in the Exhibit Hall, and Q&A sessions with members. The positive feedback from this event was overwhelming, and I hope it becomes an annual staple.
The Wound Care Seminar is approaching this November -- don’t miss the highlight of this year’s program in this issue! You will also find updates on the Duty to Report CME and a helpful article on recognizing common HIPAA violations.
OHFAMA headquarters is busy launching the Stronger Together membership campaign. If you know a friend or colleague who is a podiatric physician but isn’t a member, please invite them to join us. OHFAMA offers education, connection, and advocacy to all podiatric physicians in Ohio. We truly are stronger together!
OHFAMA CALENDAR
September 27, 2025
Holy Toledo Seminar and Golf Outing Brandywine Country Club, Maumee OH
October 2, 2025
Board of Trustees Meeting
Budget and Finance Committee
OHFAMA Headquarters
October 16-18, 2025
NEOAPM Annual Fall Classic Seminar
Virtual
October 18, 2025
360 Care Geriatric Symposium
Virtual
October 30 -November 1, 2025
GXMO Didactic & Clinical Course
Virtual
November 7, 2025
Board of Trustees Meeting
Budget and Finance Committee
Embassy Suites – Columbus Airport
November 8, 2025
Wound Care Seminar
OHFAMA Annual Business Meeting
Embassy Suites – Columbus Airport
March 6-8, 2026
No Nonsense Seminar
Virtual
April 18, 2026
110th Ohio Foot and Ankle Foot and Ankle Seminar
Virtual
MAY 14–15, 2026
110th Ohio Foot and Ankle Foot and Ankle Seminar
Hilton at Easton
PODIATRISTS MOVE THE WORLD CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF
Supporting the future of podiatric medicine is a key priority for OHFAMA
We are excited to help promote the Podiatrists Move the World campaign hosted by the APMA. You may have seen OHFAMA and other organizations, schools, and leaders sharing posting on social media highlighting this exciting campaign.
As a DPM, you can help!
Your voice matters. This campaign was designed to be flexible so that you can add your own voice and perspective while staying aligned with the core message.
Use the ideas and templates below to make the content feel authentic to you. A little personalization can go a long way toward inspiring others to consider this rewarding path.
Share Your Why
Use this prompt to create a quick, personal post or quote for social media: “I became a DPM because [insert reason]. Whether it’s helping patients stay active or performing life-changing surgery, this profession has given me [insert benefit].”
Proud to support the #PodiatristsMoveTheWorld campaign. [LINK TO: discoverpodiatry.org]
Additional Prompts:
“What I love most about podiatric medicine is…”
“I chose podiatry because…”
“Every day, I’m reminded that podiatry is…”
Video Prompts for Reels or Stories
Record a 15–30 second video using these prompts:
“3 things I wish I knew before becoming a DPM”
“Why podiatry was the right fit for me”
“What I tell students who ask me about this path”
Please tag OHFAMA!
Facebook: @Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association
Instagram: @ohfootandankle
LinkedIn: @OHFAMA | Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association
CONNECTING STUDENTS & PODIATRY
For Dr. Richard Schilling, sharing podiatric medicine is in his DNA. Inspired by mentors like his father, Dr. Stuart Schilling, he volunteers with the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM) to introduce interested students to the field of podiatric medicine.
In recent years, the number of applications to podiatric school has declined nationwide. To raise awareness of podiatric medicine and foster interest, AACPM launched a student recruitment campaign with two main components. First, DPMs volunteer to visit local colleges and universities and give presentations to groups of interested students and advisors. Secondly, DPMs can also volunteer as a mentor to allow students to shadow in their practice or residency program.
“Talking to a real Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, whether at a workshop or while shadowing, can make a huge impact,” shares OHFAMA Executive Director Luci Ridolfo. “Sometimes, these prospective students may be interested in exploring careers in medicine but don’t know about podiatry. This initiative helps fill in the missing pieces. It’s all about building relationships.”
Twice in the last year, Dr. Schilling has volunteered through the KSUCPM and AACPM to share a podiatry presentation and host a suturing workshop for the Biology Club and the American Medical Women Association at the Ohio State University. A representative from KSUCPM coordinates the student groups, the location on campus, and provides a sample presentation or workshop materials. By volunteering at these events, Dr. Schilling shares the field of podiatric medicine with a wide audience of students.
Additionally, Dr. Schilling regularly hosts interested students for shadowing experiences in his office, especially on days when he sees a diverse range of patients. “I want them to be able to see a variety, so that we can expose them to the different options of podiatry. I think one of the best parts of podiatry is the fact that you can kind of make it your own,” he shares. He typically schedules interested students for a half-day experience, then invites them to return if they want to learn more. Not every student who shadows Dr. Schilling applies to podiatry school. The important part, he explains, is learning if podiatry could be a good fit for them.
Dr. Schilling speaks from personal experience. After exploring every kind medical discipline except podiatry, his father invited him to shadow him at his practice, no pressure. He joked, “if he had ever said, ‘I want you to be a doctor or a podiatrist,’ I would have been an accountant.’” However, after spending the day shadowing his father and seeing the kind of care and relationships he built with his patients, something clicked for Dr. Schilling. He pursued a career podiatric medicine, joined his father’s practice, and eventually took it over. It all started with the right conversation at the right time. “I was ready to listen,” he said.
“For many of these students, an experience shadowing a DPM or sitting through a workshop could be their first real exposure to podiatry,” says Luci Ridolfo, OHFAMA Executive Director. “When they see firsthand what a doctor of podiatric medicine does, they begin to understand the diverse paths a career in podiatric medicine can offer.”
How you can help spread the word about a career in podiatric medicine
ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING
You’re Invited: OHFAMA Annual Business Meeting
The OHFAMA Annual Business Meeting will take place Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Columbus at the Embassy Suites - Columbus Airport.
All OHFAMA members are invited to participate in the Annual Business Meeting to:
• Learn about issues impacting podiatry
• Shape the future of your association
• Network with colleagues from around the state
Elections to Be Held at Annual Business Meeting
The Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association will hold an election for positions on its Board of Trustees during the Annual Business Meeting (ABM), which will take place Saturday, November 8 at the Embassy Suites - Columbus Airport.
The Board of Trustees manages the affairs of the association and holds approximately five meetings annually. Elections are slated for the following positions:
• President
• 1st Vice President
• 2nd Vice President
• Secretary-Treasurer
In addition, OHFAMA will elect APMA Delegates and an Alternate Delegate to represent Ohio at the 2026 APMA House of Delegates in Washington, DC.
Interested members should email lridolfo@ohfama.org to express their interest in running for one of the open positions. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor at the ABM.
CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION
Wound Care Seminar
The fifth annual Wound Care Seminar will take place Saturday, November 8 at the Embassy Suites Columbus (Airport). The seminar, which offers 6 hours of Ohio Category 1 CME credits, will feature lectures on the hottest topics in Wound Care from leading experts in the field.
6:30 AM Registration
7:00 AM - 7:45 AM Creating a Limb Preservation Program and Bioactive Glass as a Novel Wound Dressing - Richard Schilling, DPM
7:45 AM - 8:30 AM Take a Stand Against Chronic Venous Disease and Venous Ulcers - Ahmed Habib, MD, DABVLM
8:30 AM - 9:15 AM Transverse Tibial Bone Transport - Said Atway DPM
9:15 AM - 9:30 AM Panel Discussion and Questions Moderator - Richard Schilling, DPM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Break – Visit Exhibitors
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM Managing Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis: What Your ID Colleague Wants You to Know
- Caitlyn Hollingshead, MD
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM Impact of Venous and Lymphatic Disease on Wound Healing
- Deborah Cogan, MD, FACOG, FABVLM
11:45 AM - 12:00 PM Panel Discussion and Questions Moderator - Richard Schilling, DPM
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Lunch – Visit Exhibitors
Exhibitors Supporting the 2024 Annual Wound Care Seminar
12:30 PM -1:15 PM Not Your Usual Wounds! Let’s Review and Discuss Atypical Foot Wounds and Their Treatments
- Hannah Park, DPM
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM Wound Care Case Presentations - Lucas Ahlquist, DPM; Amelia Gilson, DPM; Seth Krueger, DPM
2024 OHFAMA President Thom Arnold, DPM, presents at the at the 2024 Annual Business Meeting
OHFAMA Board of Trustees meet ahead of the Annual Business Meeting
Wound Care Seminar
Hosted by the Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Foundation
Saturday November 8, 2025 | 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Embassy Suites - Columbus Airport
Annual Business Meeting | 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Register today: ww w.ohfama.org
— Esteemed Faculty —
Richard Schilling, DPM – Chairman; Said Atway, DPM; Deborah Cogan, MD, FACOG, FABVLM; Ahmed Habib, MD, DABVLM; Caitlyn Hollingshead, MD; Hannah Park, DPM
REGISTRATION FORM
Welcome to the WOUND CARE SEMINAR AND/OR OHFAMA A NNUAL BUSINESS MEETING.
This seminar has been approved for 6 CME Category I Hours and registrants may attend the seminar, the annual business meeting or both. Please register accordingly.
Embassy Suites Columbus – Airport 2886 Airport Drive | Columbus, Ohio 43219
Wound Care Seminar
Saturday, November 8 8, 2025 | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
OHFAMA Annual Business Meeting
Saturday, November 8 8, 2025 | 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Name
Name
Please mail or fax form with payment to:
1960 Bethel Road, Suite 140
Columbus, OH 43220
Phone: 614.457.6269; Fax: 614.457.3375; or, E-mail: lridolfo@ohfama.org
Wound Care Seminar
Please mark one (add $25 late fee after October 30, 2023)
November 3, 2025)
n OHFAMA/WVPMA Member: $100
n Non Member: $200
$100
n APMA Member Out of State: $125
n Student/Resident/Life Member $25
n Non Podiatrist, Assistant/Staff: $75
$200 $125 $75
2025 OHFAMA Annual Business Meeting
Please mark one (no registration fee)
n Yes, I am attending the Annual Business Meeting
n No, I am NOT attending the Annual Business Meeting
Payment Methods (please mark one)
n Check payable to Ohio Foot and A nkle Medical Foundation*
*PREFERRED PAYMENT METHOD
n American Express n Discover Card
n Master Card n VISA
Amount Authorized $
Acc ount Number
Expiration Date _________________ Security Code ____________
Name (as printed on Credit Card)
Billing Address (of Credit Card)
Signat ure
Date
THE 109th ANNUAL FOOT & ANKLE SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS
The 109th Annual Foot and Ankle Scientific Seminar Highlights
The halls at the Hilton at Easton were buzzing once again as podiatrists from Ohio and beyond gathered to learn and connect at the 109th Annual Ohio Foot and Ankle Scientific Seminar.
New this year, OHFAMA welcomed six prospective podiatry students to a day-long, complimentary session during the annual seminar where they could converse with leaders in the field, explore the exhibit hall and lectures, and learn from a hands-on demonstration. “It was a pleasure to invite these prospective students to learn what makes pursuing a career as a DPM so special. With KSUCPM in our backyard, it felt like the perfect fit,” shared Luci Ridolfo, OHFAMA Executive Director.
While the DPMs were enhancing their knowledge, over 40 podiatric assistants gathered for two days of intensive learning, covering everything from smooth office management to three hands-on demonstrations.
By Friday afternoon, attendees headed home, recharged to tackle the weeks ahead. “This was one of the best seminars I have attended in my 25-plus years,” shared one attendee. Connection, engagement, learning: there is a reason attendees return year after year to the Annual Ohio Foot and Ankle Scientific Seminar.
Mark your calendar to join us for the 110th Annual Ohio Foot and Ankle Scientific Seminar virtually on April 18 and in-person May 14-15, 2026!
Past Presidents at the Annual Silver Gavel Luncheon
Engaging Front and Back Office Assistants during the Annual Seminar Assistants Program
Drs. DiDomenico, Hyer and Joseph sit down for an in-depth conversation about a career in podiatric medicine with potential students
The Crew from Spaceballs made a special appearance to distribute prizes in the exhibit hall during the Marketplace Luncheon
Student and Association Leadership
Residents and Young Member Trustee Dr. Goettl
2025 Resident Paper and Poster Competition Finalists with Competition Chair, Dr. Brarens
The Annual Seminar cannot happen without the many companies that support the podiatric profession!
Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors
Dr. Nerestant Wins 2025 OHFAMA Dr. William F. Munsey Leadership Award
Dr. Sarah Abshier shared a few words about Dr. Munsey’s legacy and Dr. Nerestant’s bright future.
“Last year, one of the brightest stars in podiatry dimmed. Dr. Munsey, a mentor to many and a true pioneer of our profession, passed away in his hometown of Columbus. For 40 years, he practiced locally in Worthington, retiring in 1996—but his influence persisted.
Throughout his life, Dr. Munsey was a guiding force. He served as president of OHFAMA, served for over four decades in the APMA House of Delegates— including twice as protocol officer and seven years as speaker of the house. He was also president of APMA and PICA, remaining its vice president for over a decade. Even in retirement, he continued to remain involved with our profession—I fondly recall him texting me for a ride to our local academy meetings and our Ohio House of Delegates sessions, always eager to contribute.
He was a firm believer in nurturing young podiatrists. Personally, I owe much of my passion for association work to those car rides and conversations with him. He was a library of wisdom—literally, in some ways—entrusting me with original publications from our profession’s early days, including the first issue of JAPMA. Looking through them, it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come.
As the saying goes, ‘When an old man dies, a library burns.’ But Dr. Munsey didn’t let that happen—he passed on his knowledge, his passion, and his light.
Today, while we honor the setting of one great star, we also look to the rise of another. Dr. Nerestant is a new light in our sky—one with great promise and purpose. I’m excited to witness the brilliance he brings and the future he will help shape for podiatry.”
Dr. Jeff Nerestant and Dr. Sarah Abshier
Bako Diagnostics
Elite Wound Care Consultants
Progressive Medical Solutions
Central Academy
Sarah Abshier, DPM
Said Atway, DPM
Roberto Brandao, DPM
Andrew Brown, DPM
Anthony Cozzolino, DPM
Abigail Elliott, DPM
Christopher Hyer, DPM
Anastasia Koss, DPM
Lynette Mehl, DPM
Donnalyn Moeller, DPM
Carly Robbins, DPM
Mark Stanos, DPM
Ron Verrilla, DPM
Eastern Academy
Mitchell Dalvin, DPM
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 OPPAC CONTRIBUTORS
Please consider financial support of our state legislative efforts by contributing to the Ohio Podiatric Political Action Committee (OPPAC).
Mideast Academy
Thomas Arnold, DPM
Richard Hofacker, DPM
Karen Kellogg, DPM
Richard Kunig, DPM
Leslie Niehaus, DPM
Lee Sayner, DPM
Midwest Academy
Deanna Chapman, DPM
Marc Greenberg, DPM
John Stevenson, DP
Gerald Perelman, DPM
Erica Suprenant, DPM
Jonathan White, DPM
North Central Academy
Jessica Brent, DPM
Martin Lesnak, DPM
Elizabeth Wakefield, DPM
Northeast Academy
Michael LeCastre, DPM
Neil Marks, DPM
Joy Rowland, DPM
Debra Thornton, DPM
Kelly Whaley, DPM
Northwest Academy
Robert Johnston, DPM
Thomas McCabe, DPM
Pamela Sheridan, DPM
Kevin Sneider, DPM
Southern Academy
Amy Masowick, DPM
Additional Contributors
David Alper, DPM
Michael Brody, DPM
Steven Grossman, DPM
Luci Ridolfo, CAE
Theresa Ronna, DPM
Michael Schubyn, DPM
Include your name today, scan here!
MEMBERSHIP NEWS&NOTES
White Coats Sponsored by Northeast Academy of Podiatric Medicine
The sun was shining on August 1 in Independence, OH as new students were welcomed into podiatric medicinal school, surrounded by friends and family. The coats were provided by the Northeast Academy of Podiatric Medicine.
“It was wonderful to see the future of our profession unfold before us in this beautiful ceremony. The tradition of the white coat ceremony embodies the true spirit of the care and passion we have for our patients. The Northeast
OHFAMA Members Honored at Hall of Fame and Alumni Award Dinners
OHFAMA members supported KSUCPM’s Hall of Fame and Alumni Award Dinner last weekend. The following OHFAMA members who were honored:
Graduates from the Class of 2000 were recognized during the awards dinner. Dr. Rich Kunig, Dr. Karen Kellogg, Dr. Andy Scott, with Dean Boike
Academy of Podiatric Medicine is honored to help support these students along their journey by providing the white coats for the future members of our profession, as we believe in supporting not only their education, but the bright future of podiatric medicine,” shared President Dr. Joy Rowland.
The white coat symbolizes compassionate care and scientific proficiency – values that OHFAMA members carry day to day.
• Dr. Nick Campitelli, DPM - Alumni Service Award
• Dr. Molly Judge, DPM - Hall of Fame Inductee
• Dr. Megan Oltmann, DPM - Young Physician Professional Achievement Award
• Dr. Scott Spencer, DPM - Hall of Fame Inductee
Women
in Podiatry
KSUCPM Class of 2029
Dr. Joy Rowland, Dr. Georgeanne Botek, Dr. Brian Weiss. Dr. Allan Boike, Dr. Ricky Gean, Student Doctor Anna Gean, Mrs. Gean
MEMBERSHIP NEWS&NOTES
Dr. Maggi Smith recognized as 2025 Toledo Blade Best Physician and
Best Foot Care
Kudos to Dr. Maggi Smith, who was recently recognized as the Reader’s Choice 2025 Toledo Blade Best Physician and Best Foot Care. Dr. Smith has been recognized by the Readers’ Choice Toledo Blade in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Student Doctor Board Member Connects Communities
North Central Academy Updates
The North Central Academy is pleased to share a few important updates. The Academy is thrilled to award $12,000 in scholarships to Kent State podiatry students; those interested should apply through the school. Remember to save the date for the No Nonsense Virtual Seminar on March 6–8, 2026, which will offer up to 25 CME credits. The North Central Academy looks forward to your participation and continued support!
Advocacy: Small Steps Make Big Impact
OHFAMA Second Vice President Dr. Amy Masowick recently wrote a letter to the editor of her local magazine, urging them to include podiatric physicians in their “Best of” rankings. Dr. Masowick explained what a podiatrist is and the extensive training and education that qualify them to provide specialized care for feet and ankles. “Every opportunity to advocate for podiatry and educate the public makes a difference,” shared Luci Ridolfo, Executive Director of OHFAMA.
As one of the few states that has a podiatric college in their backyard, the OHFAMA Board of Trustees includes one official seat for a member of the Ohio Podiatric Medical Students Association (OPMSA). Student Doctor Leena Baig has sat on the board for the last six months and is helping to plan a Legislative Advocacy Day with OHFAMA and OPMSA at the college. As she begins her second year of school, she shares that she is “grateful for the memories and growth during first year, and looking forward to more learning, new challenges, and good times with my classmates and professors.” Stay tuned for updates about the Student Advocacy Day!
Share Your Good News
We want to hear from you!
Do you have a recent achievement, award, milestone, or celebration you’d like to share? We want to hear it! Help OHFAMA spotlight your amazing work and the moments that make our podiatric community shine. Please share your:
• Accolade or award
• Professional accomplishment
• Student recruitment event update
• Practice news or update
• Volunteer opportunity
Submit your good news and you may be featured in an upcoming OHFAMA Journal or monthly E-Blast!
Dr. Maggi Smith
Student Doctor, Leena Baig
CODING & COMPLIANCE
CORNER
Recognizing Common HIPAA Violations and How to Prevent Them
In 2024, the most common HIPAA compliance issue, according to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), remains the impermissible use and disclosure of protected health information (PHI).
When violations are identified, the OCR frequently refers cases to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for further action. As of 2024, 2,419 referrals have been made to the DOJ for criminal investigation.
Other Frequently Reported HIPAA Violations
The OCR reports the following as the most commonly alleged HIPAA violations, in order of frequency:
• Impermissible use and disclosure of PHI
• Inadequate safeguards to protect PHI
• Denial of patient access to their own PHI
• Lack of administrative safeguards for electronic PHI
• Use or disclosure of more PHI than necessary (exceeding the “minimum necessary” standard)
Private practices and physicians are among the most frequently cited covered entities in these cases.
What Qualifies as “Impermissible Use and Disclosure”?
The OCR defines this violation to include a variety of unauthorized actions involving PHI, such as:
• Unauthorized Access to PHI
Staff accessing patient records without a valid reason related to treatment, billing, or healthcare operations is a common and serious breach. Access must be role-based and monitored regularly.
• Social Media Violations
Sharing patient information—including images or case details—on social media platforms, even unintentionally, constitutes a clear HIPAA violation. Strict policies must be in place and enforced.
• Lack of Safeguards
Inadequate physical, administrative, or technical protections for both electronic and paper records is another frequent concern. These safeguards are mandated under the HIPAA Security Rule.
• Failure to Obtain Proper Consent or Authorization
Using or disclosing PHI without obtaining appropriate patient consent or authorization can result in noncompliance:
- Consent may be obtained for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations (TPO), but it is not required by HIPAA.
- Authorization is mandatory for disclosures beyond TPO, such as for research or marketing.
All staff must be trained to distinguish between situations that require consent versus those that require formal authorization.
• Insufficient Staff Training
Many HIPAA violations stem from a lack of employee awareness. Staff must be thoroughly trained on HIPAA requirements, their responsibilities, and the potential consequences of noncompliance.
If you need assistance, you can reach out to TLD Systems for assistance. Your TLD Systems subscription includes comprehensive HIPAA training designed to support compliance and reduce risk. Training topics include:
• Introduction to HIPAA and the role of Business Associates
• Identifying what constitutes protected health information
• Overview of the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules
• Practical guidance on preventing violations
• And more essential compliance education
By emphasizing employee training and implementing robust security practices, your organization can maintain HIPAA compliance and safeguard patient information effectively.
For more information please visit https://www.tldsystems.com or reach out to TLD Systems by email : info@tldsysems.com or call (631) 403 6687.
HHS Office for Civil Rights Settles HIPAA Ransomware Cybersecurity Investigation with Comstar, LLC
Settlement Marks OCR’s 13th Ransomware Enforcement Action and 9th Enforcement Action in OCR’s Risk Analysis Initiative
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”), Office for Civil Rights (“OCR”) announced a settlement with Comstar, LLC (“Comstar”), a Massachusetts company that provides billing, collection, and related services.
OCR initiated an investigation after receiving Comstar’s breach report, dated May 26, 2022, that an unknown actor had gained unauthorized access to Comstar’s network servers on March 19, 2022. Comstar did not detect the intrusion until March 26, 2022. Ransomware was used to encrypt Comstar’s network servers and the ePHI of approximately 585,621 individuals was affected. At the time of the breach, Comstar was a business associate of over 70 HIPAA covered entities. The type of ePHI impacted was clinical, including medical assessments and medication administration information.
OCR’s investigation determined that Comstar failed to conduct an accurate and thorough risk analysis to determine the potential risks and vulnerabilities to the ePHI that it holds.
Under the terms of the settlement, Comstar agreed to implement a corrective action plan that OCR will monitor for two years, and paid OCR $75,000. The corrective action plan requires Comstar to take definitive steps to ensure compliance with the HIPAA Security Rule and protect the security of ePHI, including:
• Conduct a comprehensive and thorough analysis of the potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI that Comstar holds;
• Develop a risk management plan to address and mitigate security risks and vulnerabilities identified in the risk analysis;
• Review and revise, as necessary, its written policies and procedures to comply with the HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules; and
• Train its workforce members who have access to PHI on its HIPAA policies and procedures.
OCR recommends that health care providers, health plans, clearinghouses, and business associates that are covered by HIPAA take the following steps to mitigate or prevent cyber-threats:
• Identify where ePHI is located in the organization, including how ePHI enters, flows through, and leaves the organization’s information systems.
• Integrate risk analysis and risk management into the organization’s business processes.
• Ensure that audit controls are in place to record and examine information system activity.
• Implement regular reviews of information system activity.
• Utilize mechanisms to authenticate information to ensure only authorized users are accessing ePHI.
• Encrypt ePHI in transit and at rest to guard against unauthorized access to ePHI when appropriate.
• Incorporate lessons learned from incidents into the organization’s overall security management process.
• Provide workforce members with regular HIPAA training that is specific to the organization and to the workforce members’ respective job duties.
The TLD Systems HIPAA compliance tool will give your practice access to all of the necessary resources in order to follow all of the OCR recommendations for your practice.
For more information contact TLD Systems by email info@tldsystems.com or call (631) 403 6687
For more information please visit https://www.tldsystems.com or reach out to TLD Systems by email : info@tldsysems.com or call (631) 403 6687.
Ohio Board of Pharmacy Update
OARRS Website Update: The Ohio Board of Pharmacy announced a new, refreshed version of the OARRS website, now connected to the main Ohio Board of Pharmacy website, which can be accessed at www.pharmacy.ohio. gov/OARRS. This new site is still accessible using the existing URL, www. ohiopmp.gov, so licensees will not have to update their existing bookmarks. The new version of the site is live now. Should you have any questions or have issues regarding the migration, reach out to the OARRS team at support@ pharmacy.ohio.gov.
MEMBER BENEFITS
NEW OHFAMA Practice Management Affiliate
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At its core, the Payroc platform streamlines how you accept and manage patient payments. You gain access to a complete suite of tools: credit- and debit-card processing (including FSA and HSA cards), a robust payment gateway, software integrations, electronic invoicing, online payments, mobile processing, point-of-sale systems, and ACH/ check processing. Whether you run a single clinic or a multilocation enterprise, we’ll help you set up the everything you need to meet patient expectations and keep revenue moving.
Speed matters. With Payroc’s payment-embedded technologies, you can collect faster, accept payments anywhere, and reduce delays that tie up valuable working capital. Intelligent routing and carefully configured processing help ensure your transactions clear at the appropriate interchange level—lowering fees and protecting margins. The result is a payment experience that feels seamless to customers and efficient for your team.
Flexibility matters, too. Patients want to pay how they prefer to pay— tap, chip, phone, online, or ACH—and our solution makes it easy. The platform supports the latest mobile and touchless options, so you can
offer modern payment experiences anywhere you would like within your locations without cobbling together mismatched tools. For back-office teams, real-time reporting and software integrations reduce manual entry, simplify reconciliation, and provide the operational visibility you need to make smart decisions quickly.
Technology only works if it’s backed by people you can trust. Payroc has spent decades helping healthcare organizations become more efficient, pairing innovation with integrity and transparent pricing. Their support model is built for responsiveness: knowledgeable experts, clear communication, and the mindset that every clinic deserves personalized, high-touch service. From onboarding to optimization, you’ll have a payments partner committed to your long-term success.
Here’s how we help you win:
Get paid fast with tools that accelerate payments and settlement.
· Deploy modern mobile and touchless solutions that fit your staff’s workflows.
Process at the right level to help lower interchange fees.
· Offer patients multiple ways to pay—wherever they prefer.
Connect payments to your in-house software for a unified workflow.
· Work with a team that values integrity, transparency, and results.
If you’re ready to simplify payments, speed cash flow, and elevate the patient experience, now is the time to act. Let’s tailor a solution to your operation and put Payroc’s proven technology and service to work for you.
Start the conversation today. Contact George Gugle at george.gugle@ payrocsales.com or visit https://partners.payroc.com/georgegugle to schedule a consultation and see how Payroc can help you get paid faster, safer, and smarter.
STREAMLINED COLLECTIONS FOR YOUR PRACTICE
TSI helps our clients be more proactive in resolving past-due AR as it arises without the need for harsh tactics or high fees.
Our service allows you to maintain control of the process and take early action on past-due accounts without spending a lot, and without compromising the practice’s reputation in the community.
Time to rethink collections:
• In business since 1970
• Largest agency in the country, specializing in Healthcare
• Licensed and bonded in all 50 states
• Over 35K total clients (over 20K healthcare)
• Preferred vendor of athenahealth, eClincialWorks and many others
• Average cost of 12%
• Average recovery of 30%
• Recovered over $1.1B for our clients in 2024
• Full Service Revenue Cycle Solutions:
o First Party
o Insurance Resolution
o Third Party
o Bad Debt Collections
Our dedicated internal compliance and legal departments, which specialize in the healthcare industry, have made us the unparalleled leader in HIPAA and CFPB compliance to give you peace of mind.
We treat your patients with the same bedside manner that they’ve come to expect while under your care.
That standard-setting, compliancebacked, and patient-centric care, guarantees the protection of your patients, their data, and your brand.
We care for your cash-flow’s health. You get back to caring for your patients’ health
We have several different billing integrations that may help streamline their collections process..
About TSI
Portions of the OHFAMA Journal may be used with permission of the publisher.
President: Martin Lesnak, DPM
Published By : Luci Ridolfo, CAE, Executive Director lridolfo@ohfama.org
Contact Information:
1960 Bethel Rd., Ste. 140 | Columbus, Ohio 43220
Phone: 614.457.6269 | Fax: 614.457.3375 www.ohfama.org
Editorial Disclaimer
The OHFAMA Journal is provided to Association members and Industry Affiliates of the profession as a part of our communications to inform/ update our members on podiatric issues and events. The contents of OHFAMA Journal are intended for general information purposes only and should not be read as specific legal, financial, or business advice regarding specific issues or factual events. We urge you to consult your legal, financial, and professional advisors with any specific questions you may have.
The information published herein has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only. This information is not intended as legal, podiatry or practice management advice or an opinion on same. Circumstances change from day-to-day and one situation may differ from the next; the authors and publisher cannot assume responsibility for any actions taken based on the information contained herein. This information is not a substitute for expert advice specific to your situation.
More specifically, legal or regulatory advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and laws are constantly changing. Nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of competent counsel. Federal law requires that the authors and publisher let you know that nothing published herein is intended or written to be used, and cannot be used for the purpose of avoiding any penalties under the law.
The publication of the information herein is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute a professional or contractual relationship between the author and the publisher and you. While the publisher tries to provide accurate and helpful information, they do not make any claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, helpfulness or adequacy of the information contained herein. No warranties are made for the information published to be accurate and no other warranties express or implied are made. The information here is presented “as is.”
i https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/healthcare/2024/12/06/ medical-board-didnt-discipline-doctor-now-facing-multipleaccusations/76794131007/
https://www.dispatch.com/in-depth/news/healthcare/2023/02/02/ dispatch-investigation-shows-medical-board-failed-on-sexualmisconduct/65474781007/
ii Available at: https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/publicsafety. ohio.gov/Strauss_Investigation_Closing_Report_of_Working_ Group.pdf
• Scheduling, Billing, and EMR all in one system
• Over 100 Podiatrists in Ohio as reference
• On-line system that link s you live with us
• Full Credentialing Ser vices free to all clients
• Coding reviews to assure maximum insurance reimbursement
• Accounts Receivable Management
• Full Prac tice Repor ting and Real Time Eligibilit y
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Complimentary Workers’ Compensation Quote from Sedgwick
This is the time of year when you undoubtedly receive multiple phone calls, emails and hardcopy mail promoting workers’ compensation programs.
Our endorsed partner, Sedgwick, helps members save significantly on workers’ compensation premiums and provides valuable advice to our members who are navigating Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. Sedgwick’s clients annually save $160 million in workers’ compensation premium through their Group Rating and Group Retrospective Rating Programs. Sedgwick not only offers the savings but expert guidance
CLASSIFIED ADS
Employment Wanted
of all areas of worker’ compensation including claims management as well as other cost containment programs.
If you are not participating in this member benefit, you can request a no-cost, no-obligation analysis of your potential savings. Please contact your Sedgwick program manager David Deyo at david.deyo@ sedgwick.com.
Fellowship trained Ohio Podiatric physician with 25 plus years of practice experience and excellent clinic skills looking for a part-time non-surgical position in Northeast, Northwest, North Central, Central, Mideast, or Midwest Ohio. If interested, please contact redhawk909090@aol.com.
Employment Wanted
Podiatric physician who is fellowship trained, holds FF and RRA certifications, with nearly 15 years of experience, looking to move back to the Cincinnati area. Would like to join a hospital-based practice or private practice with track to partnership. If interested, please contact charcotfootdpm@yahoo.com.
Full-Time Podiatrist Opportunity – Wooster, Ohio
A well-established podiatry practice in Northeast Ohio is seeking a full-time Podiatrist to join our team. We offer a broad, high-volume case mix across all aspects of podiatric care: General Podiatry Foot & Ankle Surgery Outpatient & Inpatient Management On Call with Trauma Coverage Wound Care
Candidate Profile: ABFAS Board Certified in Foot and RRA, or Board Qualified and on track for certification Excellent clinical and surgical capabilities Motivated, patient-centered, and collaborative
Practice Distinctions: Modern, fully equipped practice setting EHR, digital x-ray, EPAT/shockwave, PRP Full DME services (custom orthotics, AFOs, diabetic footwear) Experienced, highly skilled clinical and administrative team
Application: Please send a letter of interest and CV to jeffrey.wunning@gmail.com
Established Practice For Sale
Established practice for sale in Bluffton, Ohio. Great community to live in. Practice grosses $170,000 per year. It is 80% medical and 20% surgical with wound center access and nursing home access. Asking $150,000 with the option to purchase the building also. Call 419-778-9376 if interested.
Office Building – For Sale or Rent
Office building for sale or rent in Salem, Ohio. Location has 50-year plus history. If interested, please contact Dr. Les Niehaus at 330-531-1622
Podiatry Practice for Sale – Adrian, Michigan (Near Ohio & Ann Arbor)
Turnkey foot and ankle practice in Adrian, MI, a college town near the Ohio border — just 30 miles from Toledo and 35 miles from Ann Arbor. Well-established with 15+ years in the community, consistent revenue, strong referral base, and 25% overhead. Fully equipped office with experienced staff, full hospital privileges, no call, and ample parking.
Grossing $550,000 on a 20-hour work week. No Medicaid or HMO. Owner is willing to assist with transition, mentoring, and financing. Asking $450,000. Ideal for a new practitioner or satellite office expansion. If interested, please contact forsalepodiatryclinic@gmail.com
Practice For Sale
Part-time, free standing podiatry office/building for sale with equipment and furniture. Building blends into a beautiful tree lined residential area along State Route 528 in Madison, Ohio. Meticulously maintained.
In business 44 years in Madison, time to retire. Asking $275K. Excellent, long-term investment. Serious inquires please. Dr. Robert J. Barr, barr5525@roadrunner. com. Home phone (440) 428-6885, leave message.
Long Established Practice For Sale – Cleveland Suburb
Long established west Cleveland suburb practice for sale. Free-standing, one tenant building with sign exposure on busy street. Outstanding internet reviews. Owner willing to finance and stay for transition period. All supplies and equipment stay. $100K. Call 216-440-6585. No brokers please.
Interested in purchasing an Ad?
Are you seeking employment or looking to hire? Do you have a practice or equipment for sale? Do you have office space available?
Post your advertisement in The OHFAMA Journal and on the OHFAMA website to reach over 600 practicing podiatry physicians and surgeons in Ohio. Rates start at just $10/month for website advertisements and $10/issue of The OHFAMA Journal
Please contact Luci Ridolfo with any questions at (614) 457-6269 or lridolfo@ohfama.org.
