8443MEDx.qxd 6/25/08 9:52 AM Page 1 express...Barry Foot and Ankle Institute at Hialeah Hospital 8443MEDx.qxd 6/25/08 9:52 AM Page 1 BARR Y UNIVERSITY DIVISION OF MEDICINE SUMMER 2008

MEDexpressB A R R Y U N I V E R S I T Y • D I V I S I O N O F M E D I C I N ESUMMER 2008

WHAT’SinsideTwenty Years of Graduating

DPMs•

Barry Foot and Ankle Instituteat Hialeah Hospital

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EDITOR: What are the School of Podiatric Medicine’s most significant accomplishments?

DR. EVANS: The greatest accomplishments ofthe School have to do with the quality of its peopleand professional relationships. I am proud to saythat we have consistently maintained a high rate offemale and minority enrollment during the lasttwenty years. In fact, last year we had the highestproportion of underrepresented minorities of anycollege of podiatric medicine in the country. Weare also the only school with federal designationsas both a minority and an Hispanic servinginstitution. Our local and international affiliationssuch as the Open Door Health Center inHomestead, Hadassah Hospital in Israel, YucatanCrippled Children’s Project in Mexico, and theFederation of International Podiatrists worldwide,have allowed us over the years to contribute to thefield of podiatric medicine through patient care,and elevation of the educational standard ofpodiatric medicine internationally.

EDITOR: What are some of the goals for theSchool?

DR. EVANS: Our primary goal has always beento academically prepare and instruct students inthe required medical disciplines necessary toproduce competent podiatric physicians effectivelyqualified to enter post-graduate training. In orderto maintain the quality of podiatric medicaltraining provided by the School we haveestablished the Institute for Community Healthand Minority Medicine, a new physical facilitywhich we will occupy in fall 2008. The newbuilding will provide classroom space, facultyoffices, and laboratory space for the School. Themission of Barry University and the School alsoencourages students to give back to thecommunity, especially to those in need.

EDITOR: As you begin the fall semester in thenew physical facility, what will the new facilitymean to the School?

DR. EVANS: The new facility will allow us to prepare a new generation of health care providerswith emphasis on minority outreach, develop newand innovative community health initiatives, andimplement disease prevention programs tailored tominorities to reduce health disparity gaps.Through additional support from PedinolPharmaceuticals, the facility will include a newlounge and reading room for our podiatricmedical students.

EDITOR: What changes do you see in podiatricmedical education in the future?

DR. EVANS: With the implementation of“Vision 2015,” the American Podiatric MedicalAssociation’s plan for achieving professional paritywith allopathic and osteopathic physicians,podiatric education will continue to provide therigorous medical training which has made thepodiatric physician the specialist of the lowerextremity. This will include fostering expandedrelationships with local, state, national, and international regulatory organizations as well as

educating the public about podiatric medicine.Podiatric physicians have the best training andgreatest knowledge regarding the care of thelower-extremity worldwide. It is time that, asmedical practitioners, we work together on issuesthat are important to all of us.

EDITOR: What has Barry University’sparticipation in podiatric medical educationworldwide meant to the School?

DR. EVANS: Recently, the Federation ofInternational Podiatrists began work on anInternational Model of Podiatric Practice. Thismodel will enable Federation memberorganizations, government agencies, and corporatepartners to understand the level at whichpodiatrists practice in each country and therebymake more cogent judgments about the practiceof podiatric medicine and the education ofpodiatrists within their own and other countries.This will help pave the way to raising andharmonizing practice and academic standards forthe profession. I believe that the specialty ofpodiatric medicine around the world will berecognized much more prominently in the future.

EDITOR: How do you feel about standing atthe helm for over 20 years and serving nearly1,000 DPM graduates while dean of the School?

DR. EVANS: I am humbled by the impact theBarry University School of Podiatric Medicine hashad on the profession. It is our excellent faculty,able staff, and exceptional students which haveallowed Barry to establish a reputation duringthese 20 years in the field of podiatric medicaleducation. Our five Foot & Ankle Institutes havecontinued to supply over $1 million a year incharitable medical care to the indigent of MiamiDade County. Most importantly, 93% of alumniwho responded to a recent survey said that theywould recommend Barry to students considering acareer in podiatric medicine – this resoundingpositive input says much about the School and thepeople who have made these last 20 years asuccess.

EDITOR: What is your advice for a studentconsidering Barry University to prepare for acareer in podiatric medicine?

DR. EVANS: I encourage them to pursue theirdreams of becoming doctors of podiatricmedicine. However, they must realize that thetime and dedication that is needed to completethe intense podiatric medical program at Barry isdemanding. The training is rigorous but rewardssuch as a wide range of specialties, flexible hours,and participation in the proud profession ofpodiatric medicine and surgery make thecommitment worth it.

On April 26, 2008 Barry University’s School of Podiatric Medicine achieved a significant milestone,

graduating its 20th class of Doctors of Podiatric Medicine. The School has made tremendous

strides since 1985, when there were only 18 students, one hospital affiliation, and no clinical

program. There are now 21 local hospital and clinic affiliations, over 250 hospital based

externships and the School has graduated nearly 950 podiatric physicians. The editor spoke with

Dr. Chet Evans, vice president for medical affairs and dean of the School of Podiatric Medicine

about the School’s accomplishments and his thoughts on the future of podiatric medical education.

Twenty Years of Graduating DPMs:A Look Back and a Look into the Future

Chet Evans, DPM, CWS

MESSAGE FROM THEdean

P A G E 2

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The Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine ispleased to announce the relocation of the Barry UniversityFoot and Ankle Institute Hialeah Clinic to HialeahHospital’s Medical Plaza, located at 777 East 25th Street,suite 316. The Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute,Hialeah clinic opened on May 5, 2008 and is open toHialeah area residents from pediatrics to seniors. All formsof insurance are accepted including: HMOs, Medicare,Medicaid, Workman’s Compensation, and private pay. Formore information please visit our website athttp://www.barry.edu/podiatryclinics/ or to schedule anappointment, please call 305-693-7287. Hours of serviceare Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute ofHialeah has moved to new location

P A G E 3

May 5, 2008

WHAT’SMessage from the Dean ..............................................................................2

Program Director’s Column......................................................................4

Student News ........................................................................................................5

Alumni News ..........................................................................................................6

Division of Medicine News........................................................................7

Money Matters ......................................................................................................8

Research News ..................................................................................................11

Important Dates ..............................................................................................12

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P A G E 4


EDITOR: Discuss what you think are themajor accomplishments of the Barry PAprogram in its first ten years.

DR. PARKHURST: The first two BUPAPclasses had an average of 29 students in them.By our tenth year, we have 68 students in eachclass: 44 from the campus in Miami Shores, and24 from the partnership with the UniversityPartnership Center at St. Petersburg College.We conduct classes from two campuses utilizinginteractive video conferencing. We have receivedtwo HRSA grants, one HRSA supplementalgrant, and one Aetna Foundation grant tosupport our PA training which has emphasizedcultural competency and utilizing cutting edgetechnology. Our faculty has spoken nationally atPA education meetings and has published inpeer-reviewed journals on our culturalcompetency program, problem based learninglab, and collection and evaluation of hand-heldcomputer data for program validation. We

began with three faculty members and one staffperson ten years ago and now have eleven full-time and two part-time faculty members andeight staff people.

EDITOR: How is Barry’s PA program distinctfrom other PA programs?

DR. PARKHURST: The emphasis upontechnology and the video conference delivery ofthe didactic curriculum is what mostdistinguishes the Barry University PA programfrom others.

EDITOR: What are the goals for the programfor the next decade?

DR. PARKHURST: Our goal is to continue tofocus on the quality of the education. Ourmethod of delivery is exportable to other sitesand can enable PA education to reach placebound students.

EDITOR: Discuss how faculty preceptors viewBarry’s PA training program.

DR. QUERAL: Ourpreceptors haveembraced our studentsand graduates. Theircomments have beenvery positive. Input wehave received frompreceptors suggeststhat Barry PAs are

good students, very motivated, interested andinvolved. Our PAs have shown that theirknowledge and attitude are excellent. Otherpreceptors have commented that our studentsare hard working, intelligent, and verycompassionate in their work. They are knownto have a good fund of knowledge, which theyapply very well. Barry PAs are always eager tolearn and they get along very well with patients,

their families and our staff. Our studentsrepresent Barry well and make us very proud.

EDITOR: Describe any special success storiesof our PA students.

DR. QUERAL: There is always one studentwho becomes what I call the ‘torment’ student,the last one to be placed on rotation, the onewho is reassigned to many different sites, etc.Cal Graves, Class of 2008 was my torment.However, he never complained. He has alwaysbeen the epitome of a compassionate person. Iwas in St. Petersburg during one end of rotationwhen he came into the office limping, his footwrapped in a bandage. Apparently, early thatmorning as he was leaving his home, he saw awoman being attacked by a pit bull. Heintervened, helped the woman and ended upwith his toes broken. Any other student wouldhave stayed home after a morning like that. Mr.Graves came in, took the exams, and always hada smile on his face. This is what we seek tofoster in our PA students.

EDITOR: What do you see for the future ofPA medical education?

MR. MOORE:There are two majordevelopments whichwill figure prominentlyin PA education in thenext decade. The firstmajor development inPA education is a

growing debate over the entry level credentialsfor physician assistants. One of the factors thatdrove PA education to adopt the master’s degreecredential was that nurse practitioners werealready at that level. It was argued that in orderfor PAs to compete in the job market, gaincredibility in legislative and regulatory settingsand negotiate the credentialing processes inmany health care systems, PAs in training wouldneed a master’s level credential as well.

The second major development will be clinicalpost-graduate programs and residencies for PAs.Currently, most PAs are trained in primary careoriented PA programs. Roughly half of PAgraduates enter surgical and specialty practiceand receive the additional training andsupervision necessary to function in thoseenvironments from their supervising physicians.However, there are an increasing number of postPA graduate education programs. TheAccreditation Review Commission onEducation for the Physician Assistant, Inc.(ARC-PA) recently opened an accreditationprocess for them.

Physician Assistant ProgramEnters Second DecadeEstablished in 1997, the Barry University Physician Assistant Program (BUPAP) has graduatedmore than 300 physician assistants (PAs) who are making a significant impact on thehealthcare and lives of thousands of patients. Now entering its second decade, the BUPAPhas achieved many remarkable accomplishments which Assistant Dean for the School ofGraduate Medical Sciences and PA Program Director, Dr. Doreen C. Parkhurst discussed withthe editor. She also discussed her vision for the next decade. Director of Clinical Education,Carmen Queral, PhD, PA-C and Associate Program Director, Keith Moore, JD, PA-C alsoprovide input regarding the second decade of the Program.

Doreen C. Parkhurst, MD, FACEP

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P A G E 5

STUDENT

Forty-nine students received the Doctor ofPodiatric Medicine degree (DPM) from theBarry University School of Podiatric Medicineat a commencement ceremony held on Saturday,April 26 from 11am to 1pm. The ceremony atBroad Auditorium on the Miami Shores campuswas the 20th graduation of the School ofPodiatric Medicine, which now has more than950 graduates.

Dr. James V. Stelnicki of New Port Richey,Florida, the featured speaker at this year’scommencement ceremony, reminded thestudents that as “the most well-educated, best-trained and well-rounded” class ever to graduate,their responsibilities “would be as great as theirskills.” A past president and member of theExecutive Board of the Florida PodiatricMedical Association (FPMA), he establishedthe James V. Stelnicki Scholarship forExcellence in Lower Extremity VascularMedicine with a $100,000 gift to the University.The scholarship will award one $10,000

scholarship each year to a deserving seniorpodiatric medical student. During thecommencement ceremony, Dr. Stelnicki was alsoinducted into the Barry University Society ofFounders, which recognizes and honorsindividuals who have contributed $50,000 ormore toward the mission and goals of theUniversity.

“As a proud member of the School ofPodiatric Medicine’s 20th graduating class, yourcontinued dedication, determination, andenthusiasm for the future of podiatric medicinewill carry you far within the profession,” said Dr.Chet Evans, vice president for Medical Affairsand dean of the School of Podiatric Medicine.

Ginger Sellars was the class valedictorianand winner of the Dean’s Award, sponsored bythe Dade County Podiatric Medical Associationwhile Diana Rogers, president of the Class of2008 won the President’s Award fordemonstrated leadership to the Barry UniversitySchool of Podiatric Medicine through

recruitment, tutoring and extramural campusactivities, sponsored by Gill Podiatry Supply andEquipment Company and Northwest PodiatricLaboratories.

This year’s commencement ceremony alsoincluded the participation of a record-number ofgraduate family members who are practicingpodiatric physicians. They are Dr. Alex Miraglia,father of Stephanie Miraglia; Dr. VincentPacella, uncle of Stephanie Miraglia; Dr. JayNewman, father of Laura Newman; Dr. RobertHoover, father-in-law of Jason Lutrell; and Dr.Philip Adler, uncle of Daniel Selbst.

In addition, to the students receiving aDoctor of Podiatric Medicine, Daniel Selbstfrom Weston, Florida received a dualDPM/MBA, while four students, MoïseMedacier of Cap Haitian, Haiti, Danielle St.Phard, of Miami, Florida, Sherunda SimoneSmith of Cincinnati, Ohio and NooshinZolfaghari of Miami, Florida, received a dualDPM/MPH (Master of Public Health).

Barry Graduates 20th Class of DPMs

The Barry UniversityDivision of Medicineis proud to announce,Master of Science inAnatomy candidateKadhem Alkhenaizi,was awarded the“OutstandingGraduate StudentPaper” for hispresentation entitled,The expression of theoxidative and

glycolytic capacities after skeletal muscle denervation,at the 72nd Annual Florida Academy of Sciencesmeeting held jointly with the Georgia Academyof Sciences in Jacksonville, Florida March 2008.This was the first joint meeting with anotherAcademy in Florida’s history. The award is acommendable achievement and is judged basedupon experiment design, significance of researchfindings, and delivery of material as well as onthe student’s responses to questions posed byAcademy judges. Kadhem received a certificatesignifying his achievement. The FloridaAcademy of Sciences is the state Affiliate of the

American Association for the Advancement ofScience and is the only organization in Floridathat represents all disciplines of the sciences.The Florida Academy of Sciences, Inc. alsopublishes the Florida Scientist, a quarterly journaldistributed to its members and librariesworldwide, and sponsors the Annual Meeting togive its members the opportunity to presentpapers, honor their peers, participate inmultidisciplinary scientific exchanges, andincrease scientific awareness in the state ofFlorida.

Master’s of Anatomycandidate KadhemAlkhenaizi

Outstanding Graduate Student Paper

’S

Dr. Mario Cala, Mercy/Barry podiatric resident; Dr. Ginger Sellars, class vice president; Dr. Chet Evans, VP of Medical Affairs and dean; and Dr. Diana Rogers, class president

mn news

Bozena Pawelek, DPM receives Excellence inPodiatric Medicine Award from Dr. WarrenSimmonds of the American Society ofPodiatric Medicine

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David Pavlakovich, PA-C, Barry University

Physician Assistant Program alumni, Class

of 2006 describes his experiences since

graduation and his current joy in working as

a Physician Assistant for the US Army.

After graduating from the Barry PA Program,I moved back to my hometown, Columbia,South Carolina and took a job incardiovascular surgery with a local hospital. Itwas a very high profile job but I found Iabsolutely hated it. However, one day as I wasdoing a history and physical on a gentlemanpreparation for lung surgery I noticed that hehad a carotid bruit (an abnormal soundpattern heard in the neck with a stethoscope.It is caused by obstructions and can predict apatient’s risk of having a stroke). I reviewedall of his notes and there was no mention of abruit. I immediately cancelled his surgery andordered non-invasive carotid studies and thena carotid arteriogram which showed severeblockages. If the lung procedure would havebeen carried out he surely would have sufferedfrom a stroke upon receiving anesthesia. Thesurgery he did have was not on his lungs butrather on his carotid arteries. Though I wasrelieved at the success with this particularpatient, I stayed in this position for only aboutfour months.

I started searching for a job and cameacross an ad looking for PAs at Fort Jackson,South Carolina which was about three milesfrom where I live. It was a short termcontract position but I took the risk, not really

sure what I was getting into. As it turned out,I would see Soldiers who were in basictraining for primary care, which would seemroutine. However, the approach to treatmentof military personnel is a little different frommainstream primary care medicine. You areexpected to get the Soldier back to training assoon as possible. This often means doingprocedures and giving medications a lotsooner than you might in a civilian setting.The medical philosophy of: It may be a virus,let’s just wait a few days and see how you feel, isusually not an option. You have to get thembetter – and do it fast.

After my initial contract expired, I wasoffered a position directly with the US Armywhich I gladly accepted. I now have twooffices. My afternoon office is at theMcWethy Troop Medical Clinic in FortJackson, where I see Soldiers on a walk-inbasis. The clinic is staffed by approximatelytwelve PAs and three MDs, as well as nursesand Army Medics. My morning office is inthe field about twelve miles from the mainbase and is staffed by just one medic andmyself. We see sick and injured Soldiers whoare in the field training. It is interestinghaving your patients coming into your officewith fully automatic rifles in tow, but the workis rewarding. We can do most things thereexcept lab work and x-rays. A lot of diagnosisand treatment is intuitive because in thissituation it is not practical to do thoroughtesting or consultation. For instance, if afemale Soldier comes in and says that she isconfident that she has a urinary tract infectionit really is not that important what the testsmay show. If she feels that she knows whatshe has and is symptomatic you treat herimmediately. The conditions that theseSoldiers are in are rarely convenient forfurther testing and diagnosis so it is onlypractical to treat them and then get them backto duty as soon as possible.

My job is truly selfless. I am helpingsome of the greatest people in our country ona day to day basis – US Troops. I have neverbeen happier doing anything, or quite had thesense that I was doing some good for thosewho really deserve quality health care. Thesense of personal fulfillment is hard todescribe. I am well compensated emotionallyand financially for doing something that I lovedoing. I am serving my country and making aliving using the skills I was given during my

training at Barry as a PA.I was at the Noncommissioned Officers

Club the other day eating lunch and I noticeda gentleman was staring at me. I thought thathe looked familiar so I went over to him andasked if we knew each other. He asked what Idid and I told him I was a PA. He told methat he was the gentleman that I stoppedfrom going into surgery due to stroke risksymptoms earlier in my career. He went on totell me that he had no fear of dying. Hestated that the biggest fear he has in life is tohave a stroke and not be able to function.With tears in his eyes, he thanked me forbeing the only person to examine himthoroughly enough to make sure that didn’thappen to him. This certainly served as agood example of why we PAs should dothings the right way - the way we are taughtat Barry. You never know when what you docan be life altering for someone.

ALUMNIB A R R Y U N I V E R S I T Y n D I V I S I O N O F M E D I C I N E n S U M M E R 2 0 0 8

P A G E 6

PA Perspective: David Pavlakovich, PA-C

news

ATTENTION PODIATRIC AND PA ALUMNI!!!!

The MEDexpress newsletter is dedicating a special feature page called “Class Notes” for news items from alumni. Keep your classmates informed about your:

x new practice x baby’s birth x professional achievements x other recognitions

Forward all news items using the coupon below to:

Bob McKinlay, Editor, MEDexpress 11300 NE 2nd Avenue

Miami Shores, FL 33161 Email: [email protected]

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DIVISION of MEDICINE

P A G E 7


Dutch Podiatric Research Project Conducted at Barry

This summer, four podiatric students fromEindhoven, Holland will be completing a seniorresearch project on the postsurgical treatment ofthe deformity hallux abducto valgus, or bunions.Fontys School of Applied Sciences, final yearpodiatry (podophysiotherapy) students, Jennifervan Schooten, Jolan van Beek, Birgit de Haas,and Laura Eijsackers will be in the US until June6, 2008. For their international research projectthese students from the Netherlands will beobserving the differences in postoperative careafter hallux valgus (bunion) surgery to determineif there is a difference in care between theNetherlands and the US. They hypothesize thatpodiatric care in the US, after bunion surgery, ismore developed than in the Netherlands. Theywill examine how the participation in surgery and

aftercare differs between the podiatric physicianin the US and the podiatrist (podotherapeuten) inHolland.

The Dutch students will spend timereviewing cases at the Barry University Foot &Ankle Institute at the Mercy Hospital OutpatientCenter in South Miami under the supervision ofDr. James Losito, professor of orthopedics andbiomechanics for the Barry School of PodiatricMedicine and podiatric physician to the MiamiHeat basketball team. They will review bunionsurgery cases from 2004 to 2007 in order to showthat US podiatric postoperative treatment canprovide a framework for future implementationby podiatrists in the Netherlands, who are limitedin their postoperative participation regardingbunion cases.

The Barry University School of PodiatricMedicine is hosting the students from Holland aspart of an ongoing effort to further podiatricmedical education and practice worldwide. Thisexchange began in 2000 with the first of manytrips to Holland by Barry podiatric medicalfaculty serving as instructors at an annual sportsmedicine conference in Holland. In addition,there will be ongoing visits to the US bypodophysiotherapy students and practicingpodotherapeutens from the Netherlands. Dr.Chet Evans, vice president for Medical Affairsand dean of the School of Podiatric Medicinefeels strongly about the advancement of podiatricmedicine internationally. “It is imperative that weexchange information between the US andEurope in podiatric medical practice andeducation in order to further the profession on aglobal basis. We are honored to host theseexcellent students and will be very interested toreview their findings,” he states.

PA Student ReceivesNational Scholarship

Visiting podiatric medical students (l to r) Jennifer van Schooten, Birgit de Haas, LauraEijsackers, and Jolan van Beek.

Terry Helopoulos, PA-C, assistant professorof medical education, St. PetersburgCollege campus with recipient TravisRogers, PA Class of 2009.

news

Physician Assistant students at St. Petersburg College campus expressed their Barry pride byposing in their Barry CARES t-shirts when faculty and staff returned from Miami Shores withthe shirts as gifts from the Initiative. The Barry CARES Initiative continues to engagestudents, faculty and staff – promoting collaboration on university-wide improvement effortsand supporting the Strategic Agenda.

The Barry Physician Assistant Program ishonored to announce that Travis Rogers, Class of2009, is the recipient of the national PhysicianAssistant Foundation Scholarship. Thescholarship is awarded nationally on the basis offinancial need, academic achievement,extracurricular activities, and future goals as a PA.As the philanthropic arm of the AmericanAcademy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) thePhysician Assistant Foundation's mission is tofoster knowledge and philanthropy that enhancethe delivery of quality health care.

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P A G E 8


Serving your hometown community in aleadership position may be unusual for manycitizens. But, for podiatric physician, Dr. PaulSchoppe, it is part of a larger purpose in life thatgives people a chance to make a difference.Schoppe, a 1998 graduate of the BarryUniversity School of Podiatric Medicine, waselected on March 21, 2008 to serve as towncommissioner for Sewall’s Point, Florida. Atage 34, Schoppe was the youngest of the threenew town commissioners elected. But, hisyouth was overshadowed by his enthusiasm andinvolvement in local politics and his interest inseeking community participation in the politicalprocess to better his community.

A native of Stuart, Florida, Dr. Schoppeworks as a podiatric physician at Family Foot &Ankle in Stuart. His brothers, Drs. Joseph andJohn Schoppe completed their degrees at Barryas well, and practice together in Stuart, Florida.At the community level, he has served as theyouth minister for St. Joseph’s Catholic Churchsince 2001. Through the Light of the WorldCharities in Palm City, Florida, Schoppe hasparticipated in medical mercy mission trips toHonduras to provide podiatric surgical care tothe neediest patients in Central America. In thepolitical arena, he has served the community onthe underground utilities boards, airport noiseadvisory committee, as an alternate for thezoning board and as president Palm TownAssociation.

When asked what issues he would address,he indicated that budgetary and economic

concerns were top priorities. Schoppe wants tomotivate citizens by setting up volunteerprograms for people to become more involved intheir community. Based on his past experience,Schoppe will bring a strong sense of purposeand community to the citizens of Sewall’s Pointin his new position as town commissioner.When asked what his greatest achievement hasbeen thus far, he replies that it is being the besthusband and father of two daughters he can be.

Barry Podiatric Alum Elected Town Commissioner

Proud family man Paul Schoppe, DPM withwife Laura and daughters Ellie (6 yrs) &Meg (4 yrs).

Barry Alumna WuNamed to JAPMA

Editorial Advisory BoardStephanie C. Wu,DPM, MSc,(DPM ’01)Assistant Professorof Surgery at Dr.William M. SchollCollege of PodiatricMedicine atRosalind FranklinUniversity ofMedicine andScience was namedto the EditorialAdvisory Board of

the Journal of the American Podiatric MedicalAssociation (JAPMA). The journal, founded in1907, is the oldest and most frequently-citedpeer-reviewed journal in the profession of footand ankle medicine.

“I am tremendously honored by thisappointment,” said Wu, who is also Director ofEducation at Scholl’s Center for LowerExtremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR).“The ability to work closely with the top lowerextremity research journal is a distinctiveprofessional privilege.” Dr. Warren S. Joseph,JAPMA’s Editor-in-Chief, noted “Dr. Wurepresents a new generation of highly-trained,academic podiatric physicians. She has alreadymade great contributions to the Journal as bothan author and an exemplary reviewer. Herelection to the Board was by unanimousdecision at our recent editorial advisorymeeting.”

Dr. Wu, in addition to her clinical andresearch responsibilities, manages visits toCLEAR by visiting professors, fellows andother clinicians each year from dozens ofnations.Source: PM News

Stephanie Wu, DPM

From our previous article in the SpringMEDexpress, you should have an idea asto the amount of money to be generatedeach hour to cover overhead expense. Inthe next few articles, the staff of PodiatryBilling Services will present real practicescenarios allowing you to check yourcoding skills.

Case: Mrs. Jones, a 66 year oldMedicare patient, has been referred by herprimary care physician for evaluation andtreatment. From your history and physicalexam, her symptoms suggest a Morton’sNeuroma. X-ray examination (two views)of both feet indicates no osseousinvolvement.

After spending 30 to 45 minutesdiscussing the problem in detail with Mrs.Jones, you proceed to give her an injectionof Kenalog with Xylocaine into theneuroma site and the patient isreappointed for one week to possiblyrepeat the injection.

How would you code the visit andprocedure(s)? Because you spent 30 to 45minutes face to face with the patient, youcould code the visit as a 99203. However,since the patient was referred forconsultation, a 99243 would be moreappropriate. The difference inreimbursement is significant.

The correct code for two x-rays ofthe foot is 73620. Because it involves bothfeet you should have a separate charge forthe right foot and left foot (RT and LTmodifiers).

Unfortunately, the steroid injection(CPT 20550) given with the diagnosis ofMorton’s Neuroma (ICD-9 355.6) is nota Medicare covered service and will bedenied. Consider using a diagnosis codesuch as bursitis (726.79), tenosynovitis(727.06) or capsulitis/tendonitis (726.90)for the injection. You can use thediagnosis of Morton’s Neuroma (ICD-9355.6) with the office or consultationvisit.

We look forward to hearing fromyou (800-394-1169). Email yourquestions or comments [email protected] or visit ourwebsite: www.podiatrybilling.com.

MoneyMatters

From Podiatry Billing Services®

Coding 101

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Cancer has become so common worldwidethat it has affected every one of us. For thisreason, the American Cancer Society holds anannual walk, Relay for Life, in memory ofthose who’ve been lost to cancer and insupport of those still fighting the disease. TheAsian Pacific Islanders Association ofPodiatric Medical Students (APAPS), was justone of the many groups that participated inthe twelve hour walk held at Barry’s MiamiShores campus. APAPS is a new organizationcreated by Dr. Ramjeet Pemsingh. The aim ofAPAPS is to unify podiatric medical studentsof multiple ethnicities and increase awarenessof podiatric medicine in the community.

On April 11th APAPS contributed bydecorating, baking, and setting up activities.This was all topped off by a nonstop barbequeof hamburgers and hotdogs that spanned theentirety of the event. This would not havebeen possible without Kasra Kaghazchi whoworked tirelessly throughout the entire twelvehours. Other fundraising activities includedselling baked goods, soft drinks, and facepainting. Throughout the event, APAPSmembers entertained themselves as well asother groups through activities such asdancing, volleyball, football, frisbee, andwiffleball. By 2 am, APAPS had raised $981.

Several people showed up to support theAPAPS team including numerous BarryUniversity staff involved in the podiatricmedical program. Among these specialattendees were Dr. Thomas Merrill, Mrs.Brenda Merrill, and Dr. Edward Orr. Themost important APAPS supporter present was

Shirley Williams, a brave woman who has wonthe battle against cancer.

At 9:30 pm, the lights went down andluminaries were lit in memory of cancervictims. This was a meaningful way for thoseattending the event to pay respect to lovedones they have lost. Once all the luminarieswere lit, Dr. Southerland played the bagpipesleading all the teams around the track once sothey could reflect on how their lives have beenaffected by cancer.

When the closing ceremonies began, J.D.Sills-Powell finished his last lap completinghis 12th hour of nonstop walking. Whenasked why this event was so important to himhe said, “I have a lot of family that are cancersurvivors and I know a lot of people who havedied from cancer. When considering theduration of pain a person with cancer has to

endure, it is much longer than twelve hours.It was my way of being able to appreciate andrespect those cancer victims and survivors”.

APAPS plans to make Relay for Life anannual event where they hope to grow in theircontinuous support for cancer research.

P A G E 9

Relay for Lifeby Hany Jeffry and Annabelle Santos

The over 30 Relay participants from the Division of Medicine included students, faculty,staff, and family members.


April 11th & 12th Barry’s Miami Shores campus hosted “Day of Sports Medicine,” a jointeffort between the Barry School of Podiatric Medicine and the American Academy ofPodiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM). Pictured here is Dr. James Losito, professor oforthopedics and biomechanics with the officers of AAPSM: Dr. Jamie Yakel, Dr. KarenLangone, Dr. Matt Werd, Dr. David Davidson, Dr. Rita Yates, Dr. Tim Dutra.

Barry PhysicianAssistant Programphysical diagnosislab instructor, Dr.Bernard Loeffkesigned copies of hisbook Our America,Our China at a“Meet the Author”event at the Barrybookstore March13th along with his

son Marc Loeffke who co-authored thebook. Our America, Our China waswritten to commemorate the 35thAnniversary of the first White HouseFellows visit to China. It is Loeffke’sbelief that the fate of the world dependsto a large extent on how Chinese andAmericans behave toward one another.“We learned much as we were looking atthe two countries from differentperspectives. In many primitive languagesthe words ‘stranger’ and ‘enemy’ are thesame. Join us in making friends out ofstrangers,” stated Loeffke.

Barry PA Faculty Member holds Meet

the Author Event

Dr. BernardLoeffke

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P A G E 1 0

The Pied Piperby Richard A. Webster

Dr. John Steinberg ’95 has a passion for

promoting wound care and preventing

unnecessary amputations.

Each year more than 80,000 diabetics have theirtoes, feet or legs amputated, but it’s not alwaysnecessary and can lead to additional problems,says Dr. John Steinberg, a graduate of the BarrySchool of Podiatric Medicine and currently anassistant professor in the department of plasticsurgery at Georgetown University School ofMedicine.

If a diabetic has a wound or an ulcer of thefoot it’s common practice for surgeons torecommend amputating the entire limb. “It’seasy to cut off someone’s leg because you canget them out the hospital real quick,” Steinbergsaid. However, following that course of actionisn’t always necessary and can lead to additionalproblems and complications. In fact, more than50 percent of patients who undergoamputations suffer infections and complicationsin the remaining foot and undergo additionalamputations. And within five years 40 percentdie. That’s where Steinberg’s dedication to hisprofession becomes a true passion.

Recent advances in podiatric medicine canprevent unnecessary amputations, and Steinbergis determined to educate the medicalcommunity to promote wound healing as analternative to the severing of a limb. “I’musually on a plane once a week to give a talk at anational or state meeting,” he said. “This is myreal passion, to try to get more people to engagein advanced wound healing [rather thanresorting to] amputations.”

Steinberg is looking to change the field ofpodiatry much as his grandfather, Dr. MarvinSteinberg, did two generations ago. Dr. MarvinSteinberg, considered the “father of modernpodiatry,” was one of the first to successfullytreat gangrenous limbs when most doctors wererelying on amputations. His father, Dr. LloydSteinberg, and brother, Dr. Paul Steinberg, arealso practicing podiatric physicians in Ocala,Florida.

Steinberg, who holds the honor of being thefirst doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) to beinvited onto the faculty at GeorgetownUniversity Medical School, wants to expand onhis grandfather’s work by bringing togetherspecialists who rarely work together such aspodiatrists, vascular surgeons andendocrinologists. By combining their expertiseSteinberg says he hopes to increase the speedand efficiency of foot care so doctors won’t haveto consider cutting off a patient’s leg. “Thereare new techniques, better antibiotics, artificial

skin and tissue. You can get new blood flow.It’s a whole different ballgame from what it was10 years ago,” he said. “Now we can take offpart of the foot and heal the remaining woundand leave them with something to walk on.And a part of a foot is better than taking awhole leg.”

Dr. David Armstrong, a Chicago-basedpodiatric physician, was a professor at theUniversity of Texas Health Science Center inSan Antonio when he first met Steinberg andhas worked closely with him ever since.Steinberg’s leadership on the issue ofamputations is indicative of his passion for thefield and serves as a source of inspiration forupcoming podiatrists, he says. “Young doctorsfollowed [him] around in a long string of whitecoats,” Armstrong said. “I suppose you couldsay John is the Pied Piper of Podiatry. That’s atribute to his family, to his character and to hisinfectious enthusiasm.”

Steinberg’s dedication to reaching out toeach new class of podiatrists and providingthem with leadership has been vital in growingthe field, Armstrong said. “Our profession is ayoung one. It hasn’t had a culture ofmentorship in the past,” he said. “Much of thishas been compensated for by excessive hubris.But John’s mentoring and his characteristichumility and innate kindness has really helpedto change the culture. Future doctors see this.And they’re attracted to it. They benefit from itand so does our profession as a whole.” Inaddition to inspiring the next generation ofpodiatrists, Steinberg wants to change themindset of the current generation to help thosemost in need.

Diabetic-related amputations typicallyimpact the poor and homeless, people who can’tafford medical care, Steinberg says. They cango years without seeing a doctor during whichtime their diabetes can worsen and oncetreatable wounds go unchecked. Because thesepatients are poor or living on the streets, manytimes surgeons may not take the time to exploreall options and instinctively decide to sever thelimb, Steinberg says. “But once the homelesshave amputations they’re totally state-dependentand they end up in facilities and it becomes notonly a physical burden for them but a financialburden for the state. Where we’re pushing isthe degree of amputation. Keep it at partial footamputation so you don’t lose the whole leg.This is the standard we’re trying to establish.”

Source: Barry Magazine, Spring 2008, Vol. 14, No. 1

John Steinberg, DPM

Barry podiatric medical students (l to r) JeffPaul, Jean Pak, Jackie Schwartz, Kristen Diehl,and Stephanie Bock participate in footwashing for homeless at the Miami RescueMission

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EDITOR: What is the mission of the Research Club?

DR. OUZOUNOV: The purpose of theStudent Podiatric Medical Research Club is toprovide students at the Barry School ofPodiatric Medicine with an environmentconducive to podiatric medical research early intheir training. Planned are regular quarterlyclub meetings, official membershiprecognitions, and a semi-annual podiatricmedical scholarly peer reviewed journal. Notonly will this club help ensure continuity ofpodiatric research at Barry, but it will also pairfaculty and students in mentoring relationships,integrate students from different interests, andsupplement post-graduate completion ofpodiatric medical studies.

EDITOR: Who is involved in the formationof the Club and how are they involved?

DR. OUZOUNOV: The Research Club isstudent formed and governed. It will promoteexcellence and leadership in podiatric studentpublications through student research forums,guest lectures, and faculty peer review panels.All students and faculty are invited to

participate. As director of research, I willoversee the Club and supervise the activities ofthe students as well as help recruit guestlecturers and other support within theprofession of podiatric medicine.

EDITOR: Will the club be involved inpublications, research, and education?

DR. OUZOUNOV: Yes, the club willfacilitate education through research andpublications. The research journal will bemaintained and edited by members of the Clubunder the supervision of myself and otherBarry School of Podiatric Medicine faculty.

EDITOR: How is the club important ininspiring podiatric medical careers andteaching about research procedure andpublication?

DR. OUZOUNOV: The Club will provide regular contact between beginning and upperclassmates, faculty, and practicing podiatricphysicians nationwide. It will give all Barrypodiatric students an opportunity to presentformal and informal research topics. Peerreview of current research in the field allows for the exchange of research ideas and is veryimportant to podiatric medicine. Thisscholarly work will further the formation ofspecial topics within the field of podiatricmedicine and help students begin to see theirareas of interest.

EDITOR: How will the Club help withresearch projects which are required for Barrypodiatric medical students?

DR. OUZOUNOV: The library researchpaper is a required course in the last semesterof the 4th year. Students who complete a paperearly will be able to not only meet therequirements of that course, but also have thetime to actually submit the paper forpublication and see it published before theygraduate. This will relieve their academicburden during their 4th year, enhance their

position during the residency interviews, andgive them the extra edge they need to securetheir first choice residency.

EDITOR: Why is student research and clubsof this nature important for podiatric medicaleducation?

DR. OUZOUNOV: It is imperative that thestudents themselves understand and activelysupport the Research Club and what it standsfor. Without the students interest, activesupport and participation the research clubcould not exist. As students approachgraduation they are presented with limitedresidency positions. The increased residencyapplicant load from the other seven podiatriccolleges, will make the competition forentrance into these programs more and morestringent. It is up to the podiatric medicalstudent to be proactive and prepare for successby honing their research skills early. Studentswho have begun to do research and havepublished will have the edge in the post-graduate placement. As the director ofresearch, it is my duty to give them timelyadvice. I can show them the door but theythemselves have to find the courage and thestrength to open it and walk through.

Brian Selbst, Class of 2010, is the currentstudent research club president. He can bereached at [email protected]. I amalso available for any research related questionsthe readers of MEDexpress may have [email protected]


Research Club to Aid StudentResearch EndeavorsDr. Kaloian Ouzounov serves as the research director for the Barry University School ofPodiatric Medicine. The editor asked Dr. Ouzounov to discuss the formation of a new StudentPodiatric Medical Research Club at Barry.

Kaloian G. Ouzounov, DPM

RESEARCHnews

P A G E 1 1

MEDexpress is published for the alumni,students, faculty, staff, and friends of the BarryUniversity Division of Medicine. The primarypurpose of Barry University is to offer itsstudents a quality education. Furthermore,Barry University commits itself to assuring areligious dimension and to providingcommunity service and presence within a more caring environment.

Editor: Bob McKinlayCo-Editor: Rena Kizilisik

Barry UniversityDivision of Medicine11300 NE 2nd AvenueMiami Shores, FL 33161(305)[email protected]

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First Annual BUPASA Park Clean upThe Barry University Physician AssistantStudent Association (BUPASA) strives topromote humanitarian ideals throughfundraising and community service. Withthis intent they held their 1st Annual ParkClean-up event April 26, 2008. At least 40participants, including BUPASA membersand officers, classmates of the Class of 2008& 2009 as well as members of the localcommunity pitched in to help with the ArchCreek park renovation picking up trash,clearing brush, and revamping the butterflygarden.

This service event incorporatescommunity involvement and promotes anawareness of the environmental issues oftoday. “By embracing nature and lending ahelping hand to improve our local

environment, we hope to make a differencein our community,” said Kendra Aalund,historian, Class of 2009.

n AUGUST 21, 2008Physician Assistant Rite of Passage Class of 2009White Coat Ceremony 6pm - 9:00pmBroad Auditorium, Miami Shores CampusContact: Valerie Williams 305-899-3293

n AUGUST 22, 2008Physician Assistant Rite of Passage Class of 2009St. Petersburg Expansion CohortWhite Coat Ceremony, 6pm – 9:00pmUniversity Partnership Center DigitoriumSt. Petersburg CollegeContact: Debbie Winton 727-341-4156

n SEPTEMBER 11, 2008Podiatric Dermatology:Diagnosis & Treatment of Inflammatory SkinDiseases(3 CMEs) 5pm – 8:45pm Contact: Urmala Roopnarinesingh 305-899-3255 Visit our website at: www.barry.edu/podiatry/cme

n SEPTEMBER 27, 2008Podiatric Medicine and SurgeryClass of 2010 Residency FairBarry University Campus, Andreas HallContact: Ashish Kapila 954-235-4251

n OCTOBER 16, 2008A Guide to Improving Income:Practice Mgmt & Billing(3 CMEs) 5pm-8:45pmContact: Urmala Roopnarinesingh 305-899-3255 Visit our website at: www.barry.edu/podiatry/cme

n OCTOBER 25, 2008Florida Required License Renewal Course(5 CMEs) 8am-1:45pmContact: Urmala Roopnarinesingh 305-899-3255 Visit our website at: www.barry.edu/podiatry/cme

Who’s on the Cover - Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Class of 2008

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Documents

8443MEDx.qxd 6/25/08 9:52 AM Page 1 express...Barry Foot and Ankle Institute at Hialeah Hospital 8443MEDx.qxd 6/25/08 9:52 AM Page 1 BARR Y UNIVERSITY DIVISION OF MEDICINE SUMMER 2008