Pedorthic Newswire Issue No. 257

For the latest industry information on foot health and more.

April 23, 2008, Issue #257

DISCUSSION

Send your comments, questions, responses, articles or case studies to Pedorthic Newswire at editor@pedorthicnewswire.com. Your emails will be reviewed by pedorthists and the editors of Pedorthic Newswire, and selected submissions will be posted in an upcoming issue for feedback from other readers. The deadline for each issue is noon on the Monday of each week.

NEW QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS

Comment: The Aetrex Elite Conference was a great conference that was more than eating dog food at Aetrex Survivor or playing football with Phil Simms. The sessions were top notch and I returned to my store very excited and pumped! Kudos to the many people who organized it!

- Chris Stanley, C. Ped.

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS WITH RESPONSES

Question: I saw the response regarding having fitting room to dispense diabetic shoes and inserts. It seems that we are becoming stricter on selling and dispensing diabetic shoes. How is this going to affect companies that sell these items and ship them straight to the person's house? Will they still be able to do this? It is my understanding that if I see a diabetic patient I must then again see them to pick up inserts I made or shoes I ordered for them. But I cannot send the item to patient. Yet there are companies that never see the client only the cast and then ship completed items. The information that I get is very confusing. Does anyone know the straight answer?

- Chris Bonsall

Response: The practice of having a "fitter" (I use the term loosely!) measure shoes and his company mails shoes and inserts to the patient then bill anyone using Medicare's HCPC "A" codes is flat out fraud!

The following has been cut and pasted from Medicare's web site for the long description for the HCPC code A5500:

FOR DIABETICS ONLY, FITTING (INCLUDING FOLLOW-UP), CUSTOM PREPARATION AND SUPPLY OF OFF-THE-SHELF DEPTH-INLAY SHOE MANUFACTURED TO ACCOMMODATE MULTI- DENSITY INSERT(S), PER SHOE

Please note the first line "fitting including follow-up". ANYONE not fitting and having follow up care (if the HCPC code A5500 was used to bill Medicare) is committing nothing short of fraud. It really irritates me that I have patients that come into my office for an adjustment because the shoes they got in the mail don't fit or are uncomfortable.

We, as professionals need to speak up individually and as a group to educate our patients, referral sources AND report to Medicare and other carriers of people and companies that practice in this manner. Facility accreditation and licensure can be effective ways to fight this type of practice as well. We can not let illegal and unethical practices continue to harm our patients or our profession!

- Tom Wilson, C. Ped., CO

Comment: As the Kentucky General Assembly comes to the end of the 2008 session, it seems that the efforts to protect not only the pedorthic profession but all of OP&P from the kind of restrictive practice act that exists in Ohio were successful.

The practitioners in the State of Alabama refused to acknowledge imaginary boundaries and set a precedent with clear definition of a pedorthic device that reflects actual work being performed by practitioners. This definition is supported by the BOC pedorthic scope of practice, the PFA, Pedorthic educators at Temple University and Oklahoma State University. In all fairness, without being in touch with other educators, I am unsure where they stand on the issue or the depth of their pedorthic education programs.

Regardless, it is time to move forward. With mandatory facility accreditation right around the corner, practitioners need to consider what is in their best interest for the long run. BOC is certified by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and accredited by their parent, the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA). BOC is recognized by CMS as one of the ten organizations that have been awarded "deemed status for accreditation". And with transparent, democratically elected leadership BOC is the logical choice.

It is critical that practitioners are proactive in maintaining hard earned ground to protect the quality care that patients deserve. All of us do not live or operate in urban areas and patient access to qualified practitioners is an ethical issue.

I encourage everyone to take a look at the practice act making it's way through the General Assembly in Pennsylvania. This seems to be the only act introduced to date that isn't burdened with regulations and that really does put patient care and access up front. This doesn't need to be a fight. There are federal guidelines to consider and CMS sets the standards that everyone uses for reimbursement. There is no ethical reason to supersede those guidelines.

I encourage everyone to contact BOC for cross credentialing and facility accreditation.

- Respectfully, Dennis Hagan

Response: I certainly support Dennis Hagan’s comments in the Newswire Issue #256. There is one correction: BOC’s certification programs are accredited by The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) which is the credentialing arm of the National Organization for Competency Assessment (NOCA).

NOCA is a membership organization for groups or programs interested and involved in credentialing. NCCA is the independent body of experts associated with NOCA that evaluates and accredits credentialing programs which present themselves for accreditation. Their standards are based upon strong evidence-based psychometric research and have been recognized in federal Law and in regulations promulgated by CMS.

One of the important issues re-state licensure is that an attempt to set up different standards that have not been validated by independent processes (such as NCCA’s) would be difficult and overly expensive to be validated.

State legislatures interested in developing licensing for O,P and pedorthics should rely on NCCA accredited programs as both BOC & ABC programs are. Some states have short-circuited the NCCA requirements by administering only a portion of the exams. They would be better served to require that one must be certified in the appropriate discipline by either BOC OR ABC to become licensed.

- Donald O. Fedder, DrPH, BSP, FAPhA, Professor, Pharmaceutical Health Services Research & Epidemiology & Preventive Medicine, University of MD, Baltimore

Question: I had a question regarding compression stockings. I know some of us are cross-credentialed and are able to measure and dispense these items, but I'm curious as to what is typically deemed as prescription strength. I typically don't dispense anything above 10-20 mmHg without a prescription, but I was wondering if anyone knows of the "proper" cut-off. In my mind, 20-25 mmHg is prescription strength and not a retail item. But, one of the major insurance carriers we work with doesn't reimburse for anything below 30mmHg. To my knowledge, there are no regional differences for these items, any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks for the help.

- David Castellanos, C. Ped; National Pedorthic Services, Madison, WI

Response: I have not seen any insurance companies reimburse for 10-20 mmHg strength stockings. It's an OTC item. A patient does not need a script for 20-30 mmHg and above because 20-30 (medium compression), 30-40 (heavy compression), 40-50 (extra heavy compression) are considered prescription strength. You mentioned that one of your major insurance carriers doesn't cover anything below 30 mmHg. These compression strengths are the same for all regions and shouldn't be any different from WI. If they cover only 30 mmHg and the doctor prescribes medium or heavy compression - you're still covered since they both fall within that "30 mmHg" frame, however there is a big difference in the compression between the two and it also depends on the patients' diagnosis. I would call that insurance company and get more information or order an updated policy.

Good luck.

- Vicki C.Ped., COfm

Response: I was told by one of the long established compression hose brands that the whole concept of "prescription" strength was not a FDA or any other government agency concept. The concept of "medical grade" or prescription strength was created by the compression hose industry itself. The thought was that as these companies marketed to physicians that the 20-30 mmHg or higher should be "by prescription," then the doctors would write Rxs and compliant patients would fill these Rxs. The companies gave out Rx pads for their specific brand so the local stores would fill these prescriptions and be less inclined to substitute because the patient trusted their doctor's judgment for that brand versus other brands on the market.

Several of the manufacturers offer fitter courses that are very helpful in understanding their technology and the clinical uses. Compression hose are a nice addition to our pedorthic shoe business and repeat sales that add up over time to a steady revenue stream with decent margins. We have a prominent display of compression hose in the 15-20 mmHg and 18-22 mgHg styles near our check out area, and these items are often a last minute add on purchase with our shoe customers. We also get compression hose prescriptions directing patients to our store to whom we then can cross sell shoes. It is best to have someone in your facility be the "expert," as selling compression hose is not like selling specialty socks. And time needs to be invested in teaching a new user how to don and doff so they use their hose successfully and come back to buy more in the future.

- John Mishasek, C. Ped. and Certified Compression Garment Fitter

Question: What is the preferred pedorthic treatment for a patient with lateral cuboid syndrome?

- PNW Reader

Response: I noticed that the question about lateral cuboid syndrome was still unanswered. My first mental response when reading the words 'lateral cuboid' was if the cuboid is lateral in the foot then it’s in the right place! But I decided to do some research to see what this condition was. As most of my patients are older diabetics or veterans I haven’t had to deal with this particular problem yet. I found a nice article about cuboid syndrome at http://www.podiatrytoday.com/article/3036.

When it comes to treatment the article says 'Clinicians may employ a manipulative technique, which is often defined as a low-amplitude, high-velocity mobilization at the end of joint range, to restore proper joint congruency.' To my understanding this is a manipulation of the cuboid to realign it within the foot. As a side note this is something that should be done by a qualified professional such as a podiatrist as there are a lot of contraindications to this treatment. After this ice and either a standard cuboid pad or a custom orthosis with cuboid pad can be used to ensure recovery and support. Thank you PNW reader for making me learn something new!

Mark C. Scheibelhut, C. Ped., O.S.T.

Question: I have been in pedorthics for 17 years, the last six of which I have owned my own facility and lab. I work hard and have expanded my lab to offer central fabrication services to Midwest customers, which is starting to grow. I offer patient care, fitting shoes, making custom orthoses and Medicare billing. I have over the counter products for people who don't need custom.

I saw the survey for pedorthists released a few months ago and I am nowhere near that income: it was depressing to say the least! So, what is everyone else doing to generate that kind of money? As I am trained in gait analysis, I have been wondering if I should charge for this service to boost revenue. Any suggestions?

- Reggie Swickard

New Response: If you are providing TSD via Medicare, then you are a DME provider. Learn to think outside of the diabetic shoe box. Think of the diabetic as a patient that needs diabetic supplies and other related medical devices. That patient should be checking their blood sugars at least daily. I also offer my patients a few other items. My business has two lines of supplies that we send out on a monthly basis. I think of my monthly items as a savings account. I add to that savings account on a monthly basis as new referrals are admitted to my services. I know that my monthly business is fairly constant and I can hire employees and know that I will have the financial resources to pay them. My business could not survive if I only offered TSD. That part of the business can fluctuate. Patients may not want to come into my clinic or the shoes I carry are maybe on back order. There are many potential hiccups in TSD. Plus, think about it. TSD margins might look attractive, but you can only fill that order once a year. Most insurance companies make the patient wait 12 months before they can get another pair of shoes and inserts. So if you are only providing TSD, you are vulnerable to many market changes that are out of your control. DIVERSIFY.

- TD

Response from last issue: There are a few ways to increase your $$$. Cut corners and don't tell the patient exactly what they can get, give them what is profitable instead. Here are five ways to increase your $$$, but my guess is you won't. Because my guess is that you do things right.

A lot of pedorthists will make custom inserts for everyone, need them or not. I know of one guy that put arch cookies under a prefab and billed for K0629. (his company fired him)

Very few pedorthists do follow-ups. The time it takes to do a follow-up, is the same time it takes to see another patient.

And how many do a complete foot evaluation? If you only measure and use an impression box, and that's it, you can see more patients a day than a guy who does full foot eval for each patient.

Private insurance allows more than one pair of shoes per year, and different amounts of inserts per pair. One insurance we deal with allows two pair of shoes per year, but only one pair of inserts per pair. On the other hand, there is an insurance that allows up to $1,000 per year in any combination of shoes and inserts. (i.e. 3 pair of shoes and 3 pair of inserts, or more profitable, 1 pair of shoes and 5 pair of inserts. The Patient does not know the difference, if you say this is what you get, they accept it.)

And lastly, buy cheaper shoes. I know a guy that only goes to nursing homes and only offers 2 styles. Pedors stretch shoe and a low-end sport shoe. Shoe cost is about $30. Discount Inserts for about $40. Compare that to a company that sells quality shoes and inserts for $125 or more. Profit, Profit, Profit.

- Signed, I do it right too.

Response to "I do it right too": Pedors responds that their price structure is independent of reimbursement potential from Medicare and/or insurance companies. Pedors has a mission to provide quality, stretchable orthopedic shoes at affordable prices that are available to all persons that wish to wear them. To infer that the competitive price structure of Pedors products is indicative of products of less quality, does a disservice not only to our company but also to your Pedorthic colleagues that use our products on a daily basis.

Our commitment to and support of the Pedorthic Industry is supported by the thousands of patients that benefit from our products daily.

All Pedors products carry an unconditional 100% satisfaction guarantee. If a practitioner that uses any of our products feels they need to replace any Pedors product for whatever reason at any time they know that all they need to do is pick up the phone and we will take care of it. If we did not have rigorous quality controls in place that meet and exceed both US Medicare standards and European CE standards we could not stand behind our product to this degree.

If you have had a personal experience of ever having a quality control issue for any of our products, a quality customer service experience, or any other quality issue I would be most interested in hearing from your directly.

- Sincerely, Stephen O’Hare, President, Pedors Shoes

stephenohare@pedors.com

ANNOUNCEMENT

Antonio Davila RN, BSN, C. Ped. of Foot Ulcer Prevention Strategies in San Antonio, Texas, has been named the new president of the San Antonio Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. Davila developed a multi-disciplinary team approach for foot ulcer prevention in San Antonio and is scheduled to speak at the PFA symposium in Nashville. "I hope to impact healthcare in the city of San Antonio," he said.

Pedorthic Newswire extends our congratulations on this important appointment.

SPONSOR NEWS

AETREX ELITE CONFERENCE 2008

On April 9th - 11th the 2008 Aetrex Elite Conference was held in Clearwater, Florida and was attended by 218 footwear professionals representing the United States and 12 countries. The conference focused on cutting edge marketing techniques, retail brand building strategies, staff maximization and retail trends. Guest Speakers included industry leading analyst Marshal Cohen, marketing specialist Bob Negen, and Phil Simms, Aetrex Spokesperson and Super Bowl MVP.

"Top Notch Program. Contained more information than anything I've attended in the past. It will really enhance our business. I look forward to next years conference." - David Levy-Hawley Lane Shoes

PS Oh, and by the way, "Bob's Bombers" won Aetrex Survivor! Click here.

HEALTH AND INDUSTRY NEWS

Italian Gucci wins lawsuit against Chinese shoes maker

SHANGHAI -- Italian fashion house Gucci has won a trademark infringement lawsuit against a shoes maker based in the eastern Jiangsu Province, according to a Shanghai court ruling on Monday.

Senda Group Co. Ltd., a well-known shoes maker in China, was ordered to pay Gucci 180,000 yuan (about US$26,000) in compensation for infringing on the latter's trademark featuring an interlocking "GG" pattern, according to the ruling handed down by the People's Court of Shanghai Pudong District.

The representative of Guccio Gucci S.P.A. said it found Senda's ladies sandals bearing the "GG" logo were sold at Shanghai No. 1 Yaohan Department Store in August 2006.

The trade mark has been in use since 1961 and was approved for exclusive right by China's industrial and commercial authority in 1999 and 2002, the representative said. Full Text

Source: Xinhua

Start spring with beautiful legs and feet

Hamburg - Out of sight, out of mind: while our hands typically get washed and moisturized every day, care for our feet and legs tends to be an afterthought. This is especially true in the cold-weather months when thick socks and heavy shoes are the rule and keep the feet and legs well concealed. But once winter is over, the legs and feet look uncared for.

Short skirts and open shoes expose the dry patches, bothersome cellulite and fungus skin. When these conditions occur, it's high time for a special beauty treatment to tackle the problem, and aesthetics is not the only reason to do.

"Regular foot care also prevents many tough problems," said Mechthild Geismann of the German association of podiatrists and clinicians who offer foot care. Full Text

Source: The Earth Times

DIABETES

Statement of the American Diabetes Association Supporting Federal Court's Ruling on New York City Proposal

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) applauds today's federal court ruling upholding a New York City regulation that requires chain restaurants to provide the calorie content of foods on their menus and menu boards. This ruling came in response to a challenge to the regulation filed by the New York State Restaurant Association. The ADA appeared as an amicus curiae along with other public interest organizations and professors supporting the regulation.

"We strongly support the court's ruling in favor of upholding this important measure to protect consumers," said John Buse, MD, PhD, President, Medicine & Science, ADA. "If individuals are expected to make informed, healthy food choices, we must give them the nutritional tools they need to do so." Full Text

Source: PRNewswire

Hopkins is testing new gel therapy that could lead to fewer amputations

by Karen Buckelew

It began as just a callous on his toe, but it almost cost John Doody his leg. Like many diabetics, the 66-year-old Arnold man developed a non-healing, or ulcerated, wound on his foot.

Doody was relatively lucky his surgeons were able to save his leg, and he lost only two toes and some bones in his foot. Now, one of Doody’s doctors at the Johns Hopkins Wound Center is hoping to be part of a solution for the 100,000 diabetic Americans who lose limbs to non-healing wounds each year.

Dr. Gerald Lazarus, director of the wound center, is testing an experimental drug called Excellarate, a therapeutic gel made by San Diego firm Cardium Therapeutics Inc. Full Text

Source: The Daily Record

SPORTS AND FITNESS

The Proper Fit: What athletes need to know about shoes

When selecting a running shoe, or any shoe for that matter, there are a few important features to look for. For active athletes, a running shoe should encompass the following:

A strong heel counter: The heel counter is located at the back of the shoe and surrounds the heel. The purpose of this feature is to stabilize the heel within the shoe, as well maintain the foot on a straight axis throughout walking or running. To check and see if your shoe has a strong heel counter, grasp the shoe at the middle of the sole with one hand, with the other, place your thumb low on the heel of the shoe and press firmly. If you are able to collapse the heel of the shoe, the heel counter has broken down and your shoe needs to be replaced.

A strong shank: The shank of the shoe is a bridge between the front of the heel and the ball of the foot. Its primary function is to reduce "sagging" of the shoe as a natural result of the spring effect of the long arch of the foot upon walking or running. In order to test for a strong shank, flip the shoe upside down so that the sole is facing upwards, place one hand on the heel of the shoe, and the other just behind the location at which the ball of the foot would sit; try to bend the shoe in half. If you are able to do so, the shank of the shoe is no longer providing proper support; the shoe needs to be replaced. Full Text

Source: Free Press

BECOMING A CERTIFIED PEDORTHIST

Join A Growing Service Profession: Pedorthics

Pedorthics is a professional field covering the design, manufacture, modification and/or fit of footwear. Pedorthics encompasses shoes, orthoses and foot devices that prevent or alleviate foot problems caused by disease, overuse, injury or congenital defect. Certified Pedorthists work with patients and their footwear to conform to a doctor's footwear prescription as part of the patient's treatment

To become a Certified Pedorthist, you must take a pre-determined number of course hours in pedorthics and pass a certifying examination overseen by The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics®. The ABC is an independent certification body that sets standards for the profession and is recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

More information, including FAQ's

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics information on the step-by-step process of becoming a pedorthist

Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification

For information on the Canadian certifying organization:
The Pedorthic Association of Canada

UPCOMING COURSES AND EVENTS

BECOME A CERTIFIED PEDORTHIST

COURSES

The Robert M. Palmer M.D.,Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Click here to view a detailed calendar including dates and locations, information and pricing.

The Pedorthic Footwear Foundation has several scholarships and grants for 2007. Visit http://www.pedorthics.org/ and then click on the "Foundation" tab for more information.

Traveling Courses To Your Area sponsored by The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics, Inc. a not-for-profit pedorthic school. Please contact us to discuss your needs at phone: 765-557-7216. Email: pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or visit our Web site at: http://www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org/.

CFS Allied Health Education: Pedorthic Certification: Exam Review
This review is focused on supplying the student with the skills and knowledge needed to pass the ABC Certified Pedorthic exam by presenting exam-like questions, exploring possible answers, and discussing rationales for correct and incorrect answers. Contact CFS Allied Health Education at (918) 266-3678 or visit http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for more information.

*ABC and The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics are registered trademarks of the The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc., which is not affiliated with CFS Allied Health Education and does not endorse this review.

Oklahoma State University has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical oriented individual. Your next course option is to begin by enrolling in our Level 1 Online Program! Then you are required to attend a Level Two: Hands-On program. Once you have successfully completed these courses, you may enroll in our Level 3 Online Program! Contact Information: Jerry Wilson 918-293-5330 or Andrea Autaubo 918-293-5330 or visit our website http://www.osu-okmulgee.edu/ Click here for course listings.

For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course: Contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

2008 FOOT SOLUTIONS C. Ped. TRAINING COURSE INFORMATION Foot Solutions is an accredited facility that hold classes three times per year. The company's course will offers the certificate needed in all three levels to sit for the C.Ped Exam. The facility is located at2359 Windy Hill Road, Suite 400, Marietta, GA 30067

May 2: 1-day cram session
July 7-July 18
July 25: 1-day cram session
October 31: 1-day cram session
For application and fee information, contact:

Tracy Strickland 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 206 tstrickland@footsolutions.com

Betty Hubauer 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 201 betty@footsolutions.com

Dr. William Faddock 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 209 bfaddock@footsolutions.com

APRIL 2008

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science will offer their 3-level competency based training course for future pedorthists from April 28-May 15, 2008 for the classroom session. The pre-course online session is available April 1st and must be completed by April 25, 2008. This program has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Pedorthic Education (CAPE). For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course: Contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

JUNE 2008

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science will offer a pre-certification pedorthics course for podiatrists from June 19-23, 2008, which upon completion and passing of the course exams, will allow participants to sit for the ABC certification examination. For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course, contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

AUGUST 2008

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: August 11th - August 26th 2008 $3,995
EPI Pre-Certification course is a two and a half week all inclusive course to prepare individuals to become a Board Certified Pedorthist. The EPI course is also designed to help health care professionals enhance their practices (ATC, CO, CPO, DC, DPM, MD, PT). Pedorthic treatment has proven to provide incremental patient benefits, particularly when added to other treatment protocols. The awarding of an ABC/BOC fitter certification provides the certified pedorthist with an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com.

BECOME A THERAPEUTIC SHOE FITTER

For additional information on the Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course, please contact the Aetrex Marketing Department at: marketing@aetrex.com.

APRIL 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: April 25 (Manchester, NH ), $195.

MAY 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: May 6 (Richmond, VA ), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: May 14 (Atlanta, GA), $195.

JUNE 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: June 6 (Teaneck, NJ), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: June 20 (Miami, FL), $195.

JULY 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: July 8 (Detroit, MI), $195.

AUGUST 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: August 12 (Birmingham, AL), $195.

SEPTEMBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 5 (Greenwood Village, CO), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 14 (Los Angeles, CA ), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 16 (Portland, OR), $195.

OCTOBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 14 (Louisville, KY), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 27 (Atlanta, GA), $195.

DECEMBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: December 5 (Orlando, FL), $195.

For additional information on the Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course, please contact the Aetrex marketing department at (800) 526-2739 or marketing@aetrex.com.

ADDITIONAL COURSES

Oklahoma State University is offering various courses ranging from instruction in shoe fitting to biomechanics and pathomechanics of the foot. To view a complete listing of 2007 courses and dates, please click here.

CFS Allied Health Education is pleased to announce their new ABC Approved Therapeutic Shoe Educational Course. An ABC certified fitter of Therapeutic shoes is an individual trained and qualified in the provision of non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom diabetic multi-density inserts. This two-day course fulfills the educational requirements needed to apply for the ABC Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes credential. To learn more, please visit CFS Allied Health Education's website at http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for course dates or call (918) 266-3678.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE 1-on-1 or Group Tutoring Available; Eneslow Training & Tutoring Program, Individual and Small Group Program

WHO SHOULD COME:
Those who wish to improve their pedorthic, sales, retailing, biomechanics and business skills.
Those who need a refresher course; prepare for the Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes or the
Pedorthic Pre-Certification Course and Exam.

SUBJECTS: PEDORTHICS - SALES -RETAIL MANAGEMENT
Pedorthic Assessment - Pedorthic Shoe Fitting - Pedorthic Solutions Footwear - Foot Orthotics
Foot Products - Ready-made - Custom Shoe Constructions and Designs
Shoe Modifications - Casting and Evaluation Techniques for Custom Shoes & Orthotics - Business and Practice Management Finance & Administration
Forecasting & Budgeting - Buying & Inventory Control Marketing & Advertising Professional Responsibility - Safety - Human Resources Biomechanics Pediatrics
Pathology of Diseases and Malalignments

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 INSTRUCTION
$150/ hour for individual training

GROUP TRAINING
$125/hour per person for two or more participants in the same program at the same time
$100/hour per person for five or more participants in the same program at the same time

Fee: Two hour minimum

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 TRAINING WITH ROBERT S. SCHWARTZ, CPED, OR DR. JUSTIN WERNICK, DPM, CPED
$250/hour for individual training &
$200/hour per person for group training
Added Value: An insider’s look into the retail, pedorthic, sales, store operations, and business management of Eneslow.
ABC and BOC points may be applied for.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE, 470 Park Avenue South at 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016

Call for more info (212) 477-2300 (Ask for Sarah Goldberg, CPED) (212) 353-2876 Fax

email: epi@eneslow.com or visit http://eneslow.com/epi

INTERNSHIPS

Internship Course with The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics:
Pedorthic Clinical or Manufacturing Internships Available. Daily, Weekly or Extended Internship Courses Available. Experience clinical settings in Orthopaedic, Podiatric, Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Clinics as well as experience in a BAPFOL approved functional foot orthosis laboratory. We specialize in diabetic wound care as well as pediatric and adult biomechanics. Your internship hours can earn you an Associates Degree In Pedorthic Biomechanics or be used as continuing medical education hours. Please contact Pam Haig at 765-557-7216 or pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

Comfort Shoe Specialists, state of the art retail pedorthic facility, offers internships for on the job training requirements in beautiful St. Louis. Room is available as an option. Call Edith James, Certified Pedorthist, at 314-822-3300 -- or email Edith@ComfortShoe.com

ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS

American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association Upcoming Seminars/Courses: Click here for a complete schedule.

AOPA has been delivering successful, cost-effective business products and solutions for 90 years. AOPA knows the business of O&P.

CLASSIFIEDS

Seeking to Hire: Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. is a vertically integrated footwear, foot health and technology company whose mission is "to bring to market footwear and footcare products that enable you to live life your way, pursuing your favorite activities, avoiding unnecessary setbacks and overcoming challenges whenever possible."

Aetrex manufactures casual/comfort, athletic and diabetic footwear. The company is also a leading manufacturer of over-the-counter orthotics and diabetic inserts. In addition Aetrex is the leading provider of foot scanning technology to the retail market place. Aetrex sells its products through broad channels of distribution including, retail shoe, sporting goods, golf, pedorthic, DME, podiatry, O&P and others. Check http://www.aetrex.com/ and http://www.foot.com/ for additional information.

"Market Managers/Service Representatives"
Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. is seeking dynamic people to work as "Market Managers or Service Representatives" in selected regions of the country. These positions require 2-4 years of wholesale footwear experience with a strong knowledge and understanding of retail markets. Salary plus commissions, expenses and solid benefits package. E-mail resumes to leslie@aetrex.com or fax (201) 833-0846. No calls please.

Seeking to Hire: Growing healthcare services company has immediate openings for experienced Certified Pedorthists in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Candidates must be able to work closely with Podiatrists and possess strong professional skills. Position includes travel to various long term care facilities. We offer a well established patient base and a competitive compensation package. If interested, please call Sean at (888) 964-6681 ext 166 or email your resume to caring2@healthdrive.com or fax it to 866-657-5400. Website: http://www.healthdrive.com/ 4/23

Seeking to Hire: Immediate opening for a Certified Pedorthist in Lincoln, NE. Requirements: extensive experience in care and fitting the diabetic foot; experience with shoe modifications; excellent interpersonal skills, high level of organization and self motivated. Fabrication skills necessary. Compensation: salary negotiable commensurate with experience, health insurance, paid holidays/vacation, and continuing education/professional licensure reimbursement. Performance bonuses are also available. Relocation expense reimbursement available. Send resume to kharmel_orthocare@yahoo.com 4/16

Seeking to Hire, Enjoy Adirondack Living: Join our highly innovative company and enjoy the benefits of living in the Adirondacks. We are both a national central fab. business and local pedorthic facility. Involvement and interest in sports, especially skiing a plus. Having strong fabrication skills is a plus/plus. Salary and benefits package are commensurate with experience with ample opportunity for growth and ownership. Send resume to mail@footdynamics.com or call 888-477-0282. 4/9

Seeking to Hire: We have an excellent opportunity for a Certified Pedorthist or trainee. If you are

Self-Motivated & Results Driven, Willing To Go The Extra Mile, Friendly, Outgoing, Detailed & Organized, Burning With A Desire To Succeed. Fabrication skills a big plus!

We Offer Paid Training, Full Medical Benefits, Medical Savings Plan, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Generous Employee Purchase Plan 4/2

The Best Job in Pedorthics - No Evenings or Sundays! We’re the #1 facility in the Northwest for filling footwear needs from custom orthotics, shoe modifications to custom shoes. Email resume to: shoeguy@seattleshoe.com 4/2

C. Peds or Orthotists Wanted in Multiple Locations: Are you looking for a flexible schedule, and way to supplement your income? Wellness Life Systems, a national diabetic shoe company, is currently seeking energetic Certified Pedorthists or Certified Orthotists with excellent patient care skills in Louisiana, Mississippi, West Virginia, Iowa, Nebraska and other locations to perform in-home diabetic shoe fittings and assessments on a per patient basis. This opportunity allows our professionals to focus on what you do best, Patient Care, all administration, insurance verification, and billing of claims are performed in the home office. Requirements include experience with the care and fitting of the diabetic foot, a passion for patient care, and a high level of organization. Join a professional team where your skills will make a difference in a patient’s diabetes management. Send your resume (or for additional information) to shoes@wellnesslifesystems.com or call (816)268-6803. 3/26

Seeking to Hire: Immediate opening for an experienced Certified Pedorthist. Clinical and Fabrication skills necessary. We are a busy O & P facility in Philadelphia that has been in business over 60 years. Excellent salary and benefits. Email resume to kcocco@aol.com or call Carlo Cocco at 215-334-3816. 3/19

For Sale: Well-established, successful shoe business and pedorthic center. A unique, all-inclusive one-stop facility featuring comfort shoes from around the globe. Complete shoe repair/modification shop included. Multiple exam rooms are available for podiatry practice or any other professional seeking to grow with traffice flow from the store. There is an ever-growing clientele, in addition to a very loyal following of this second-generation family business. Options for location are: current premises through long-term lease, separate purchase of the building, or relocation. This business is currently located in the heart of the Lehigh Valley (mid-eastern PA, approx. pop. 1,000,000) on a busy thoroughfare just minutes from I-78, which gives great access to NJ and NY, as well as Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Call 610-791-7933 for more details. 2/20

Eastern Pennsylvania, Seeking to hire: Pedorthist wanted for a full time position in our Wyomissing ,Pa. office. We are a well established 5 location O&P business. Come join the team of 12 professionals to serve the eastern Pennsylvania patient population. We work in several hospitals, wound centers and therapy departments throughout our region. This is an great opportunity to join a large team of professionals, office and technical support staff. We offer a competitive salary, 401k and benefit package. Send all resume's to the attention of Bob Toth, C.Ped c/o Boas Surgical Fax# 484- 895-0350, Email to info@boassurgical.com or call 610-972-1920 2/20

Seeking to Hire: National Pedorthic Services is looking for a motivated individual - either currently board-certified as a pedorthist or interested in becoming certified - for our St. Louis , Missouri office. Competitive wages plus benefits. Experience a plus, but character and willingness to learn are much more important! Please email your resume to us at: nps660@gmail.com. Looking forward to hearing from you! 2/13

Southern New England Pedorthist Opportunities: Independence HomeHealthWares is a leader in the DMEPOS field located in Providence, Rhode Island. Recent program expansion has created the following openings: Pedorthic Footwear Program Manager; Pedorthic Footwear Salesperson. Join a team of self starters who enjoy the freedom to express their creativity, while meeting the needs of referral sources and customers at the highest level. Independence enjoys an excellent reputation, and we seek others who can contribute to our solid program. Independence employees enjoy: Competitive salary and commissions; Fully funded health insurance; 401(k) including company contribution; Flexible hours. Please email your resume and salary requirements to info@homehealthwares.com 2/6

Seeking to Hire: Shoe Fitting Specialist, Per Diem openings in North East, Midwest and Middle States. Excellent way to supplement your income. Work independently on your on schedule. Must be a CPED or other recognized shoe fitting credentials. In Home shoe fittings; flexible schedules and hours. GenCare Systems Inc. is a rapidly expanding healthcare company providing Therapeutic Shoes, Diabetes Supplies and related Durable Medical Equipment. Please email or fax your resume, attention. Fitting Specialist Email: steve@gencaresystems.com ; Fax: 631-544-4448. 2/6

Seeking to Hire: In ALL MAJOR METROPOLITAN CITIES. We have an excellent opportunity for Certified Pedorthists passionate about patient care. Seeking energetic, motivated, professional individuals to join the team. The CPed provides excellent service to patients by executing the company’s programs in a positive, effective and clinical matter. All paperwork, billing, appointments, and administrative work completed at corporate office; allowing the Cped to focus on patient care and to practice their expertise of Pedorthics. Requirements include significant experience with the care and fitting of the diabetic foot, excellent interpersonal skills, high level of organization, motivated and willingness to travel (all expenses paid). Full time and part time positions available. Competitive base salary, bonus plan, health insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, and continuing education reimbursement. Send resume or for additional information contact laura.carroll@atlasmedicalusa.com , fax 310-330-0552. . 1/30

Seeking to Hire: C.Ped Needed. Our pedorthics facility needs a C. Ped. with retail fitting stool experience. We are in a suburban environment, close to all major highways, and have been for 23 years. The staff is friendly and experienced. Please call JoAnn at The Back Relief and Comfort Store, 732-493-2225. 1/30

Classifieds will run for 90 days unless we are informed that the position has been filled. Thank you!

UPCOMING COURSES

Submit course listings to: editor@pedorthicnewswire.com

2008 COURSES AND EVENTS

MONTHLY

Riecken's Orthotic Labs - 800-331-8040; SAFIO Class, Second Friday of every month, at 5115 Oak Grove Rd., Evansville, IN. Four casting stands provided, limited to 8 students. Contact Darlene at the above number for more information.

APRIL 2008

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science: Pre-Certification Course in Pedorthics: 3 Levels - will be held April 28-May 15, 2008. The pre-course online session is available April 1 and must be completed by April 25, 2008. For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course, contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" is offering a one week "Advanced Functional Foot Orthosis Course" April 25 - Elwood, Indiana. This course awards 81.0 CME credits. Participant must have successfully completed the ABC C. Ped. Exam and have an advanced understanding of applied biomechanics. Cost $1500.00. Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216.

MAY 2008

USRA MAY EVENT XV at Wigwam Resort & Golf Club inLitchfield Park , AZ on May 4-6; a place to brainstorm, share ideas, problem solve and offer support & guidance to one another. It is a place where all walls are dropped and we become one industry all working together for a common cause -- keeping the Independent Shoe Retailer alive and growing. JUST ADDED: Aetrex Worldwide & USRA present *Therapeutic Shoe Fitters Hands On Program Saturday May 3, 2008 *Additional Fees Apply ATTN: CPEDS: May 3 Certification Course = 7.75 Continuing Education Points May Event 4-6 = 11.25 Continuing Education Points. If you are not yet signed up, contact the USRA Office at 818-703-6062 or visit the USRA website at www.USRAonline.org.

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: May 10 - 19 - Elwood, Indiana - Final Course For August Exam - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216.

JUNE 2008

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: June 14 - 23 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216.

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science: Pre-Certification Pedorthics Course for Podiatrists - will be held June 19-23, 2008. For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course, contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

JULY 2008

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" is offering a one week "Advanced Functional Foot Orthosis Course" July 11 - Elwood, Indiana. This course awards 81.0 CME credits. Participant must have successfully completed the ABC C. Ped. Exam and have an advanced understanding of applied biomechanics. Cost $1500.00. Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216.

AUGUST 2008

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Dates: Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: August 2 - 11 - Elwood, Indiana - Final Course For November Exam - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216.

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: August 11th - August 26th 2008 $3,995
EPI Pre-Certification course is a two and a half week all inclusive course to prepare individuals to become a Board Certified Pedorthist. The EPI course is also designed to help health care professionals enhance their practices (ATC, CO, CPO, DC, DPM, MD, PT). Pedorthic treatment has proven to provide incremental patient benefits, particularly when added to other treatment protocols. The awarding of an ABC/BOC fitter certification provides the certified pedorthist with an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com.

STAFF

Editor: Faye Rapoport DesPres, M.S.

ADVISORY BOARD

Robert Schwartz, C. Ped. John S. Mishasek, C. Ped.

Stephen F. Albert, D.P.M., C. Ped. Jerome S. Klein, C.O., C. Ped.

Edith James, C. Ped. Erick Janisse, C. Ped.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

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