Pedorthic Newswire Issue No. 275

For the latest industry information on foot health and more.

August 27, 2008, Issue #275

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 Eastern Standard Time on the Monday of each week.

NEW QUESTION

Question: We recently received an Rx for a 12 year old female gymnastically-oriented girl with “Freiberg’s disease” on her 2nd met. What pedorthic treatment plan have PNW readers had success with?

- Robert S. Schwartz, C. Ped.

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS WITH RESPONSES

Question: Does anyone know where to get Barton's Wedges? Do any distributors have any left in stock? Apex/Aetrex used to manufacture them. They are the white crepe adhesive back Barton's wedges. Thank you!

- Stuart Pressman, C.O., C. Ped.

Response: If you have a sample or picture with dimensional information our company can replicate them for you using a high velocity cnc cutter. You can reach us at 1-800-667-3679 or email at Prothotics@aol.com.

- Brent Konantz, Ortho. ,RMT LCSP C PED

Question to all DME providers: We are a DME provider and in the process of getting our facility accredited by BOC. We almost passed the inspection except for two items that we are expected to provide. They are:

1. Quality Standards-Performance Management plan
2. Quality Standards-Financial Management plan

If anyone has samples that I could look at or knows where to get it, this information would be greatly appreciated.

- Vicki, C. Ped.

Response: Try JDuley@QualityOutcoms.com. I've seen his work when I'm surveying facilities for ABC accreditation and have been impressed with the program he has developed and the help he provides.

- Libby McGraw

Question: Any used amfit systems out there for sale?

- Josh

Response: Josh, I have a full amfit sytem for sale that includes the digitizer & milling unit. It is an older unit but capable of doing most of what the new units do. You can reach me @ 914.588.8808 and ask for Scott.

- Scott

Question: I have a very frustrating situation and I'm trying to find out what, if anything, I can do about it. Earlier this year we received approval from CMS to bill Medicare for diabetic shoes and inserts. I have since found that this is only one of many Medicare insurers that we need to register with for reimbursement.

When I applied with Humana I was flatly rejected, not due to any shortcoming of ours but do to the fact that Humana has an "Exclusive agreement" with another supplier. When tax dollars are paying the premiums, I don't understand how they can lock out a properly credentialed and licensed provider from plying his trade. It is irritating in the extreme to turn patients away when I am perfectly capable and willing to supply the footwear and inserts at established reimbursement rates. I have several Humana patients that would rather deal with me due to the much larger selection of brands, styles, and sizes that we carry.

Is there anything that can be done? We have the patients bill of rights, how about a providers right to practice? Anyone else run into this problem?

- Russell Dotson, C. Ped., CFts

Response: I empathize with your frustration, Russell. I recently tried to obtain a PIN to bill DME through Blue Shield of California. BS of CA is actually one of the friendlier insurers and I am in their network under a separate provider category. Although their network is closed for DME at this time their provider relations department tried very hard to obtain a PIN for me to bill DME out-of-network.

I am unable to become an in-network provider for Blue Shield of California. They simply do not recognize Pedorthists as providers. They are not even aware what category of provider we are or our scope of practice. Apparently this is due to our profession not having a unique professional identity and taxonomy code as do all other health-care providers.

I have also found that several other insurers’ networks for DME are closed. Apparently they have “exclusive deals” with the larger DME entities (this includes State Medi-Cal) and the small business owners cannot become in-network providers for them. This affects patients’ rights to choose their provider, but insurers can and do cut these deals to maintain costs. Personally, I see it as an exclusionary practice which lowers the standard of care and quality of the equipment offered.

I feel that as Pedorthists we need to become more unified and informed as a group to promote a professional identity, a unique taxonomy code and to lobby for wider exposure to bid to be in these groups and provide our services. Orthotists and Prosthetists already enjoy this benefit; even Certified Shoe Fitters have a primary taxonomy code that identifies their services.

DME does not include just the TSB after all; I would imagine the majority also provide OTS and custom orthoses, orthopedic shoes and modifications and would like to obtain the ability to bill a patients’ insurance for their services when indicated and to compete in the marketplace.

- David G. Wedemeyer, D.C., C. Ped, BOC Pedorthist

Comment: Just received news that the Senate passed the bill HR6331 on July 9. This bill will exclude Podiatrists from DMEPOS accreditation requirements.

The memo reads the following:

On July 9, the Senate passed (buy a veto-proof margin) HR 6331 that encompasses many items including:

Exclusion of Podiatrists from DMEPOS accreditation requirements (big thanks to the APMA). Note that there appears to be one more step here to make this final and it rests with the CMS director to finally exclude Podiatrists. Our friends at the APMA feel this is imminent, however.

As ABC correctly states on their website:

"Licensed podiatrists commonly provide certain lower extremity orthoses, pedorthic devices and DME as an adjunct to their podiatric care. Similarly, pharmacies provide one or more levels of care, including off-the- shelf and pre-fabricated orthoses, post-mastectomy products, therapeutic shoes and/or limited or extensive DME. As both groups provide some level of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) they will need to meet CMS¢s mandatory accreditation requirements if they plan to receive payment from Medicare for certain services. Regardless of where the beneficiary receives care, the qualifications of the providers delivering patient care must meet ABC¢s stringent accreditation standards. As the preeminent, deemed authority for the accreditation of DMEPOS suppliers, ABC is poised to provide the oversight needed for those suppliers to participate under the newly regulated Medicare benefit categories." (ABC News & Events, 06/10/2008)

This would be an unbelievable double standard by CMS and an unfair advantage for Podiatrists. If they provide the same service as pedorthists and orthotists they should also be required to become accredited like pedorthists and orthotists.

Ether we all get accredited or we just drop this "mandatory" accreditation for once and all.

- Heinz Reichl, C. Ped., BOC Pedorthist

Response: I have been following the discussion regarding Mandatory Facility Accreditation and the recent decision in the language of HR 6331 to grant Podiatrists exclusion. I certainly understand the point of view of Dr. Kesselman as I do my fellow Pedorthists on this issue and find each has valid points they are making in this discourse. I am firmly planted in the middle as a Doctor of Chiropractic who does possess a 4 year post-graduate degree, as well as being a Pedorthist.

I find myself in no-mans-land because as far as I am aware I am alone as a D.C. who is also a supplier for the TSB. Under my D.C. license I am not limited to the spine and we are in fact whole body practitioners, so long as our delivery is non-invasive we can provide orthoses and bracing in the course of a patient’s care. Thankfully it is not a common practice for my D.C. colleagues to find an interest in becoming a DME supplier for the foot and ankle without further training as I pursued.

From my point of view I believe that if D.P.M.’s, M.D.’s, D.O.s, O.D.’s and pharmacies receive exclusion that all providers who are physicians in Medicare should enjoy the same exclusion benefit. I also believe that any provider holding a four-year Baccalaureate equivalency such as C.O.’s and C.P.’s and P.T’s should share the same exclusion should they maintain a facility for patient care and in this case the Pedorthist. Read the rest of this response here .

- David G. Wedemeyer, D.C., C.Ped, BOC Pedorthist

Response: So, we can't talk about a double standard per Dr. Kesselman until we've gone through 4 years post-graduate work and a residency? Well.....Let's talk about it anyway. I too, am an educated person (bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master's in Business Administration (3 years post-graduate work) plus having been raised in the retail footwear industry and worked for over 30 years in it. I have been a C. Ped. for over 16 years and I am still growing and accumulating knowledge every day. As most all of my peers can attest, our education did not start and stop with our pre-requisite classes. I studied pedorthic, biomechanical, podiatric, orthopedic, and sports medicine textbooks 4 or 5 nights a week for the first 4 or 5 years after I became certified as a pedorthist. If I came across a prescription with a diagnosis that I wasn't familiar with, then I would read everything I could find on the pathology until I was familiar with it and all the therapies that addressed it. We're the ones in the trenches day in and day out. We're the ones the patients come to and say, "I've been to 3 different doctors and gotten no long term relief -- they've shot me up with cortisone and put me on anti-inflammatories and given me a sheet of stretches to do." When asked if they understand their condition and how the damage is taking place, they say no one really took the time to explain it to them. We're the ones that spend the hour explaining to them their condition and how to go about stopping the damage to their feet. If they understand why they must do the stretches, why they must ice, why they must wear corrective footwear, why they must wear the right size, why they must limit certain activities, why they must not go barefoot.......then and only then will they be compliant and once and for all follow a therapy plan by which they can hopefully become pain-free or at the very least stop the damage and ambulate more comfortably. Read the rest of this response here .

- Thank you, Herbert B. Humphries, Jr. C. Ped.

Response: My postings were not intended to "diminish" the training received by pedorthists and certainly was not in any way targeted at podiatrists who are also pedorthists. I merely was attempting to point out that HR6331 specifically discusses physicians.

This law was meant to protect the public from DME suppliers who deal with the public. Its intent was not to create a hardship for physicians who are treating and supplying their own patients, often in emergent or emergency medical situations.

Think about a scenario where I as a physician may no longer dispense a pair of crutches or a CAM walker to a patient with a fracture because of this accreditation issue. Think of what happens to the patient who now weight bears out of my office and now has to go to another supplier. What if they don't follow my instructions, what if they further injure themselves prior to receiving their devices.

The public is certainly not protected from harming itself in that type of scenario and what are my liabilities as a physician having not given the patient the means by which to abide by my orders.

This is what podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons deal with everyday. If you are tired of having us "throwing up the educational issue" then get the education and become a physician ,MD, DPM, DO OD etc.

- Dr. Paul Kesselman

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS WITHOUT RESPONSES

Question: Has anyone received any email Rx’s from their prescribers? What is the opinion of PNW readers regarding the importance/value of receiving Rx’s via email?

- Robert S. Schwartz, C. Ped.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Pedorthic Footwear Association announces its 50th Annual Symposium & Exhibition!

November 6 - 9 The Golden Age: Foot Health and Wellness for Life

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville, TN

For information, contact: (202) 367-1145; info@pedorthics.org; www.pedorthics.org

http://www.pedorthics.org/2008SymposiumExhibition/RegistrationInformation/tabid/137/Default.aspx

SPONSOR NEWS

For further information click here

AETREX iSTEP WEBINARS

For further information, please contact Dan Bacher at dbacher@aetrex.com

HEALTH AND INDUSTRY NEWS

Obesity: An increasing problem for orthopedists

Data indicate that the prevalence of obesity in the United States is increasing in adults and children. According to the most recent data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 66.5% of men and women 20 years and older in the United States are overweight and almost 32% are obese. Being overweight or obese has been reported to increase the risk of orthopedic complaints such as osteoarthritis, tendinosis, bursitis, overuse syndromes and surgical complications. Full Text

Source: Orthopedics Today

Bookbags, Footwear Vulnerable In Back-To-School Cutbacks

by Sarah Mahoney

A new study from NPD Group finds that when it comes to back-to-school spending, consumer cutbacks will make just about every type of retailer work harder to get cash registers ringing. "The most vulnerable channels of distribution are the apparel and footwear stores," the report says. But even discounters will lose share of shoppers, with more competition coming from 'non-traditional' rivals like office supply stores. Full Text

Source: MediaPost Publications

DIABETES

Foot Problems in Diabetics

Approximately, there are 16 million Americans who are affected with 2 types of diabetes. Type 1 is often connected with juvenile diabetes and frequently linked to heredity. Type 2, however, is usually referred to as adult onset diabetes. It is distinguished by high blood sugar, or people who are overweight.

There are many complications that are associated with diabetes. It suspends the vascular system and affects many areas of the body such as the eyes, kidneys, legs and especially, the feet.

25% of the 16 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes often develop foot problems. Full Text

Source: Corsavoo.com

Obesity Rates Up in 37 States: Report

he obesity epidemic in America has gotten worse -- not better -- in the last year, despite public service campaigns warning about the health risks posed by carrying too much weight, a new report found. Adult obesity rates increased in 37 states, while there were no decreases in any states, according to the annual report released Tuesday by the nonprofit Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

The obesity rates rose for a second consecutive year in 24 states and for a third consecutive year in 19 states, according to the report, F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America, 2008".

More than 25 percent of adults are obese in 28 states, up from 19 states last year. And more than 20 percent of adults are obese in every state except Colorado. In 1991, no state had an obesity rate greater than 20 percent. Full Text

Source: HealthDay News

SPORTS AND FITNESS

Nike stumbles in Beijing Olympics marketing race

by Brent Hunsberger

Are Nike's laces coming undone in the Beijing marketing race?

First, the founder of competing Chinese sportswear firm Li Ning Co. lit the Olympic cauldron in front of an estimated 4 billion viewers. On Sunday, Puma-sponsored Usain Bolt won the 100-meter dash in memorable style, cradling his gold Puma spikes afterward for cameras.

Then, early Monday, Nike's top Chinese marketing vehicle, defending 110-meter Olympic hurdling champ Liu Xiang, pulled out of the Games with an Achilles injury. "Maybe the end of the games will provide some better story-making for their brand than they have so far," said Paul Swangard, managing director of the University of Oregon Warsaw Sports Marketing Center. Full Text

Source: The Oregonian

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 either The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics® or Board for Orthotists/Prosthetists Certification, Int’l. Both the ABC and BOC are independent certification bodies that set standards for the profession and are 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/.

The National Shoe Retailers Association is pleased to bring training and CEs directly to you, without the additional cost of travel, food, lodging, registration fees or lost work time. Our affordable WISER Sales Training DVD makes in-house training easy and there’s now an online exam for Continuing Education credits from ABC and BOC.

WISER Sales Training provides quality training for new sales associates and re-motivates experienced sales staff. The DVD format makes it easy for employees to train at times convenient for them, and for employers to offer quality training without hiring outside trainers or taking the most experienced staff off the sales floor. ABC’s Category 1 CEUs for WISER Sales Training total 21.75 credits (2.5 scientific, 19.25 business), good through year 2010. BOC’s credit total is 20.34 (6.42 CPE Category 1, 13.92 Category 2).

Pricing for the program is as follows:

DVD, workbook and guide for trainers Members: $295 (Non-Members $395)

Additional Handbooks: $10 each

Online Test Members: $100 (Non-Members: $200)

For more information or to order, click http://www.nsra.org/wiser_intro.php?ad=pn

or call or email Kim Surasky at 1-800-673-8446, ext. 318, kims@nsra.org.

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
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

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

SEPTEMBER 2008

September 8-21, 2008. The International School of Pedorthics (ISP), instructed by Bill Meanwell, C. Ped., is offering a Pedorthic pre-certification course hosted at the Amfit corporate facility in Vancouver, Washington, U.S.A. This pre-certification course in Pedorthics has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Pedorthic Education (CAPE). You will study Anatomy, pedorthic terminology, biomechanics, gait, casting techniques for shoes and foot orthotics, shoe construction, fitting and modification, patient care and management, and more! Sign up today to become part of a growing Allied health profession, and be one step closer to becoming an ABC Board Certified Pedorthist. Sign up today by contacting Kathy at 702-449-0974 or kathymeanwell@yahoo.com.

OCTOBER 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 October 14-30, 2008 for the classroom session. The pre-course online session is available prior and must be completed by October 6, 2008. The Pre-Certification Course in Pedorthics has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Pedorthic Education (CAPE). Podiatric Physicians and other medical professionals may be considered for advanced placement based on the podiatric/medical education and year of graduation.

FEBRUARY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals: February 16th to 21st 2009.

EPI Pre-Certification course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals is a one week course to prepare qualified professionals to become a Board Certified Pedorthist and enhance their practices. Pedorthic treatment has proven to provide incremental patient benefits, particularly when added to other treatment protocols. The awarding of an ABC/BOC pedorthic certification provides an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com. Cost $1,995.

Special Note: Aetrex is offering each Aetrex Customer a special $1,000 savings on Aetrex purchases of $2,000 for each Podiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional who attends the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute Pedorthic Pre-certification Course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals. Enroll Now!

MAY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: May 4th to 19th 2009.

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 pedorthic certification provides an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com. Cost $3,995.

Special Note: Aetrex is offering each Aetrex Customer a special $2,000 savings on Aetrex purchases of $4,000 for each person who attends the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute Pedorthic Pre-certification Course. Enroll Now!

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.

SEPTEMBER 2008

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

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

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

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 24 (Manchester, NH), $195.

OCTOBER 2008

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

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 21(Rochester, NY), $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.

FEBRUARY 2009

Certified Shoe Fitter Course - February 16th to 17th 2009: Eneslow Pedorthic Institute (EPI), New York, NY, USA, February 16th to 17th, 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute offers the Certified Shoe Fitter Course, a comprehensive two day course leading to ABC Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes (abcop.org) or BOC Footwear Specialist BOCFS (bocusa.org) It is for individuals who fit non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom diabetic multi-density inserts. With a greater need for competent, reliable, and ethical patient care as it pertains to those who live with diabetes and the symptoms attributed to the disease, it is necessary to hold those responsible to a higher standard. The ABC fitter of therapeutic shoe certification and the BOC Footwear Specialist BOCFS is awarded as an attestation of competency for the public, those who require orthotic/prosthetic services as a result of diabetes, and those in other health professions. Applicants for certification are required to complete established educational and experiential requirements. Eneslow Pedorthic Institute 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, USA. Cost $395. For more information go to www.eneslow.com/epi or Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.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

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

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.

"Service/Tech Reps-NY Metro Territory"
Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. is seeking dynamic individuals to work as a service/tech rep for the NY Metro territory. The position requires some retail/wholesale shoe experience with knowledge of, and the ability to resolve computer hardware/software issues. We offer salary, bonus and a complete benefits package. E-mail resumes to leslie@aetrex.com or fax (201) 833-0846. No calls please.

Seeking to Hire: Since our company's founding in 1923, Yale Surgical Company has been dedicated to meeting the Orthotic, Prosthetic and Pedorthic needs of Connecticut. We are beginning a new family generation of practitioners and are eager to meet the continuing need in our area. We currently have multiple opportunities for C. Ped., CO, CP, CPO and Orthotic/Prosthetic Techs in our New Haven office. We would love to speak with you to discuss your goals and future plans. Please feel free to look at our website, www.yalesurgical.com and email your resume to info@yalesurgical.com at your earliest convenience. Comp. salary, 401k ect. - Edward N. Kaufman Ongoing

Seeking to Hire: Shoe technician wanted to run a diabetic shoe program at Gottlieb Hospital outpatient pharmacy in Melrose Park, Illinois. Experience preferred, but will train right individual. Applicant will study and train for certification. Applicant must have good communication and customer service skills. Experience in Medicare billing and computer record-keeping a plus. Benefits with 32 hours/week. Contact Clark Chrisman: 708-450-4941 8/27

Seeking to Hire: Expanding Pedorthic Services Department within retail shoe company in Milwaukee, WI has an opening for a C. Ped. with fabrication background, as well as patient skills. Team player, good communicator and attention to detail necessary. We offer an established patient and clinic base and a competitive compensation package. e-mail resume to info@stansfootwear.com or call Jim Sajdak, C. Ped. 414-464-1960 ex. 102. 8/20

Seeking to Hire: If you’re an ambitious and patient-centered CPED who is a team player and a good communicator, consider offering quality patient care with us in beautiful Birmingham, Alabama, a city with great golf courses, arts, history and social life. The successful candidate must have strong clinical and marketing skills and be able to communicate easily with both patients and referring physicians. Our facility has a large physician-referring base both in and out-of-state. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package that includes continuing education opportunities and relocation expenses. Two-to-three years experience required. Please send us your resume to: ALPedorthics@gmail.com 8/13

Seeking to Hire: Expanding Orthotic Facility has CPed/ Pedorthic Tech Position Available

A well-established New York City Orthotic Lab with a growing practice has an immediate opening for an experienced, certified Pedorthist. Looking for a mature, self motivated person with fabrication skill. Including working with negative and positive cast, working with saws, grinders and vacuum molding of various materials. Experience fitting and fabricating orthotic devices is a plus, but will train qualified candidates. Compensation: Health Insurance, 2 week paid vacation, paid holidays, profit sharing, Transit checks. Salary negotiable (depends on experience), Compensation for continual Education. Please email resumes to drbalance@msn.com 8/6

Pedorthic Facility Closing, All inventory/equipment/fixtures for Sale Below Cost! - Inventory includes: Aetrex, Finn, Saucony, MBT, Drew, PW Minor, Pedors, Ana-Tech, Thorlo's, Lyncos, etc. Equipment available includes: Amfit, worktable, shoe stretchers, shoe racks, fitting stools, etc. Fixtures include: checkout desk, shoe display tables, chairs, benches, etc. Hurry up all items going fast, we will ship anywhere! Please contact Raul Alfonso for list of items at rmalfo@bellsouth.net 7/23

Seeking to Hire: Shoe Fitting Specialist, Per Diem openings in New York City and Long Island 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. 7/16

Business For Sale – All inclusive: The Foot Support Center in Allentown PA, Business, Real Estate, Shoe Repair Equipment, Business Equipment & Inventory. Listed on the Lehigh Valley MLS @ www.lvarmls.com MLS # 302587. Located at 120 E. Emmaus Avenue near I-78, Rt. 309 and Rt. 145, there is a high volume of traffic, an ever growing clientele and a very loyal following of current clients/patients. Unique all-inclusive one-stop facility – reason for sale is based on health/illness. Buy now. Call Ben Baker @ 610 -392-5495. 6/11

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.

SEPTEMBER 2008

American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA) National Assembly. We're taking the National Assembly to New Heights! Don't miss the county's oldest & largest meeting for the orthotic, prosthetic & pedorthic profession, Sept. 10-14 at The Hyatt Regency Chicago. Earn over 40 CE credits at this five day event. Visit www.AOPAnet.org or contact Tina Moran at tmoran@aopanet.org for more info.

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: Sept 13 - 22 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

OCTOBER 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: October 11 - 20 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science: Pre-Certification Course in Pedorthics - will be held October 14-30, 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 for a Scholl College Special Programs listing.

NOVEMBER 2008

Pedorthic Footwear Association: PFA's 50th Annual Symposium & Exhibition, November 6 - 9, 2008

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville, TN. For information, contact: (202) 367-1145; info@pedorthics.org; www.pedorthics.org

http://www.pedorthics.org/2008SymposiumExhibition/RegistrationInformation/tabid/137/Default.aspx

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: November 15 - 24th - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

DECEMBER 2008

AOPAversity- Mastering Medicare: Advanced Coding and Billing Techniques. December 1-2, Orlando, Fla. Contact Erin Kennedy at (571) 431-0834 or e-mail ekennedy@AOPAnet.org for more information.

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: December 6 - 15 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

2009 COURSES AND EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2009

Certified Shoe Fitter Course - February 16th to 17th 2009: Eneslow Pedorthic Institute (EPI), New York, NY, USA, February 16th to 17th, 2009

MAY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: May 4th to 19th 2009.

STAFF

Editor: Faye Rapoport DesPres, M.S.

ADVISORY BOARD

Robert Schwartz, C. Ped. John Mishasek, BOC Pedorthist, 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.

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