Tell us how you learned about podiatry.  

I didn’t come from a traditional pre-med background. I was studying applied mathematics and physics in Russia before immigrating to the United States with my parents. My mother developed plantar fasciitis, and as I was translating for her during her podiatry appointments, I learned about this branch of medicine. After doing more research on my own, I became very interested in the field and realized it was something I could truly see myself pursuing.

What is it like being in private practice?  

By being a physician a general, we learn something new every day. One of the most meaningful parts of private practice is building long-term relationships with patients and their families. I have the privilege of treating some families across four generations and getting to know them very well. I go through different stages of life with them - new family additions, losses, good times and difficult moments. Over time, many of my patients truly become an extended family to me, and some even feel like close friends.

When you say "aim to be doctor wife, not doctor's wife" what does this mean to you and do you think more female DPMs feel the same way?

My female colleagues definitely share similar views, as they all manage the same demanding balance of responsibilities. This quote is meant to inspire future generations of female podiatrists, especially during this time of a national physician shortage.

Advanced degrees and professional careers are often more challenging for women than for men due to biological and social factors, but that should never limit our chances to pursue our dream professions. I started podiatry school with two babies, had another during podiatry school, and one more during my residency. I try to inspire women who are unsure whether they can balance both career and family, and to show that if one woman could do it, another one can too.

You market yourself as a soul and sole healer. Clever!! What does this mean?

Saint Gavrilia was a physiotherapist who carried out her work by performing podiatric procedures for underserved communities in India. She believed that service, especially caring for the lowest parts of the body, was a way of reaching the human soul.

What benefits does PPMA provide to you that you appreciate?

I believe membership in PPMA is both a professional responsibility and a privilege. Organizations like PPMA, and APMA more broadly, play a critical role in advocating for our profession, protecting our scope of practice, and ensuring that podiatrists are respected and recognized within the larger medical community.

PPMA also provides valuable opportunities for continuing education, professional collaboration, and mentorship. Being part of PPMA helps keep us connected as a professional community, allows us to learn from each other, and ensures that our voices are represented at the state and national levels. Strong professional organizations ultimately strengthen the future of podiatry for both physicians and patients.

How has your digital presence impacted your practice?

Truthfully, much of my digital presence is oriented toward other medical professionals rather than directly toward patients. However, patients absolutely love watching my silly reels and especially enjoy seeing my office staff participate.

Social media allows them to see our personalities, our sense of humor, our down-to-earth approach, and it helps make the medical environment feel less intimidating. Many new patients say that scheduling their first appointment felt easier because they already felt familiar with our office. It creates a sense of connection before they even walk through the door, and when they finally meet us in person, they often comment that it feels like they already know us.

Dr. Hand’s story begins as one of the few female students in the first class of podiatric school at The Temple University School of Chiroprody after World War II. After finishing her education and residency, she entered the podiatric workforce in Palmyra, PA, just minutes from Hershey. She built a network in Palmyra, treating patients who lived and worked there and in the surrounding areas, including Hershey Foods workers.

She joined and later became President of The Junior Women’s Club. When she learned there was no local library to visit, she took this to her club, and, along with her peers, they began fundraising to open a library in town. In the 1950s, there was no technology that we have today to connect with others to raise awareness for such a project. This was no easy task, yet the group, led by Hand, successfully collected 1,200 books donated by the community and a few hundred dollars. This was enough to get the Palmyra Public Library opened in 1954. These efforts provided a pathway to accomplish other missions. The Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine (now Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine) was founded in 1963 in response to the closure of the medical school to which Dr. Hand was instrumental in this success, as she was one of the Founding Members.

She continued to be involved in these community-based and podiatric education initiatives throughout her career and is proud of the library, which today has grown into a debt-free facility with over 65,000 items and free programs available to the public. She continues to fund scholarships at TUSPM because she remembers and recognizes the challenges students face and wants to contribute to supporting podiatric medicine.

As Dr. Hand prepares for her 100th birthday this January, we not only wish her a happy birthday but also thank her for her contributions and her inspirational story. As she prepares for a big celebration, she reminds us that “giving back to a community that is good to you seems like the right thing to do” and “being true to your patients and doing the best job you can for them is important.”

He became a podiatrist, and his patients provided feedback as to how the foot and ankle care he provided had enhanced their quality of life and allowed them to do things they previously couldn't, proving that he made the right choice!

Dr. Kramer joined PPMA. He increased his involvement by serving on committees and the board of directors, which provided opportunities to build relationships and serve the podiatric community, as well as address problems, including access to affordable professional liability coverage. 
He played a pivotal role as part of a group of professionals collaborating with PICA and Dr. Ross Taubman to establish PMAP, which enabled PPMA members to save thousands of dollars throughout their careers by accessing professional liability coverage. Through his involvement in this initiative, he expanded his knowledge of risk management, which proved beneficial as he operated his private practice. His leadership history includes roles as President of PPMA, PMAP (Podiatric Medical Assurance of Pa), and PMAA (Podiatric Medical Assurance of America.

In addition to his involvement with our association, Dr. Kramer has generously donated a significant portion of his free time, utilizing his skill set and talents to serve his community at large. He has volunteered at the local men's homeless mission for the last 10 years of his practice. In doing so, he discovered that foot care is the most requested medical service by this group. By addressing their foot issues, these men were better able to get their lives back on track. They were able to secure employment and rebuild their lives.

As he approached retirement years, he says he has always heard that "you will know when it is time to get out". For him, this served to be true after practicing for about 48 years. It doesn't mean that he does not miss seeing his patients!

"PPMA has played a huge role in my professional and personal life," states Neal Kramer, DPM, a PPMA Life Member.

PPMA is delighted to learn that Dr. Kramer is enjoying his retirement, spending more time with his wife and family, and dedicating himself to activities such as tennis and pickleball. We appreciate everything he has done for our association, his patients, and the local community. He has surely led a fulfilling career in podiatry that students and young podiatrists can look to for inspiration.

Member Gretchen Perschke, DPM, and her father Timothy Perschke, DPM share the passion for podiatry.

Member Pete Smith, DPM, and his son Pete Smith, Jr., DPM

While investigating the intricacies of obtaining an Earth Shoe franchise, Dr. Pasquino visited the Clinical Director at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (now Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine). He wanted to understand the biomechanics and effects of the Earth Shoe’s negative heel. Encouraged to seek a career in podiatry, he continued his path. He relocated to Southern California to pursue his plans of owning an Earth Shoe franchise.

Several years later, while running on the beach on the West Coast, he engaged with a podiatrist lecturing on running shoes and sports injuries. He was intrigued. After shadowing this podiatrist and further investigating a podiatrist career, Dr. Pasquino was confident that he had found podiatry to be a “good fit.” He reconnected with the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (OCPM) Clinical Director, who enthusiastically encouraged him to enroll.

While at OCPM, he became involved in the Ohio Podiatric Medical Students’ Association. This experience began a path of involvement that led to building a network that supported Dr. Pasquino’s podiatric career, as Dr. Pasquino furthered his involvement in organizations serving in leadership roles. Ironically, he later served on the Board of Trustees at the school.

Dr. Pasquino completed his residency training at the James C. Gioffre Medical Center in Philadelphia, where he studied with and was mentored by some of PPMA’s future leaders. Under the mentorship of Dr. John Mattiacci, his interest in leadership was further piqued. This vital connection resurfaced later in his career as he was introduced to the First National Guild for Healthcare Providers of the Lower Extremity (OPEIU, Guild 45).

Upon completing his residency, he relocated to Pittsburgh, where he opened a practice. Dr. Pasquino started his practice from scratch, getting off the ground with a line of credit. He possessed robust confidence in his endeavor. Like many podiatrists who started their own practice, he learned the business piece on the job. It took four years for his practice to begin being profitable.

The key to his success was getting involved in his community and networking. He slowly and purposely built a thriving practice by getting deeply involved in the local community, hospitals, and service organizations. In giving his time, he raised awareness of the benefits of Podiatry within his community and grew his practice.

Dr. Pasquino recognized the need to both educate and inspire others.

Dr. Pasquino felt the need to invest in his people in-house by making continuing education a part of his practice culture, ensuring continuing education was an employee benefit that his workforce could take advantage of. As a result of these practices and at his urging, many of his employees enjoyed successful careers in nursing, physical therapy, pharmacy, medicine, and veterinary medicine.

He introduced others to podiatry by lecturing at high schools and colleges, encouraging young students to shadow and observe him in practice and surgery.

For decades, he participated as an instructor, moderator, and adjunct faculty member for several Podiatric and medical residency programs and hospitals.

As his practice grew, he renewed his thirst for advocacy and “giving back”. Dr. Pasquino initially served locally (Pittsburgh, PA), holding offices and positions in the PPMA, hospital boards, and service organizations. This eventually led to more prominent roles at the state and national levels (Past President of PPMA, Board Member of the William L Goldfarb Foundation). This allowed him to expand his professional influence and network, forming alliances with like-minded Podiatrists and leaders nationwide.

He enjoyed participating in the early developmental stages of the Guild and the John Yurconic agency and being a longtime delegate, PAC, and PA coordinator of the APMA.

 About ten years before his retirement, he sold his practice to an extensive, multi-specialty medical practice. He remained employed there, functioning as Department Chief and Board member.

This past year, Dr. Pasquino retired but remained active in podiatry and his community.

Dr. Pasquino is an ambassador who recruits and mentors’ young Pennsylvanian podiatrists to serve the PPMA.

A volunteer in his local community, he volunteers his Podiatric services twice a month for a free clinic. He serves on several Boards in the Pittsburgh community, including the Civic Light Opera, Medical Bureau, American Diabetes Association, and the Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

Dr. Pasquino enjoys traveling, dining, and spending precious time with his family.

In reflecting on his career choice, he responds with great enthusiasm: “Podiatry offers the opportunity to build great relationships. It allowed me to grow and hone professional and social skills while providing valuable service to individuals and communities. It allowed me to improve my life while learning humility and self-worth.” He adds that what he best likes about podiatry is that “I liked helping others.”

Dr. Pasquino lives in the Greater Pittsburgh area. He is an active consultant in the PPMA and the Goldfarb Foundation, and continues to serves on the Board of OPEIU, Guild 45.

While attending graduate school, an acquaintance introduces Dr. Marty to the podiatric profession, and it proves to be a game changer. While pursuing an MS in Microbiology at Duquesne University, Dr. Marty puts himself through school by working as a Teacher's Assistant and doing various labor jobs. He talked with a customer one day after washing her home’s exterior. The homeowner had a recent appointment with her podiatrist and thought that John might appreciate a career in podiatry. She offers to make an introduction.  When Dr. Marty greeted the podiatrist at his in-home practice, he found him kind and hard-working. Marty had a positive experience and was interested in learning more. The podiatrist was gracious with his time and offered to connect Dr. Marty with Jim Bates, DPM, who at the time was the Dean and CEO at what is now TUSPM.The podiatrist was gracious with his time and offered to connect Dr. Marty with Jim Bates, DPM, who at the time was the Dean and CEO at what is now TUSPM.The

Dr.Marty applies and gets accepted to podiatry school and relocates to Philadelphia. He did not have a plan on how to pay the tuition and living expenses associated with attending podiatry school. Dr. Marty was living on spare change but had enough saved to cover a few months of tuition. Sometimes in life, we need to remember that where there is a will, there is always a way. That way came from another connection that was soon made for him. This connection allows him to get a scholarship. This scholarship, The National Health Scholarship, covers all his tuition and living expenses. The generous scholarship is a game-changer, but it requires that he practice in specific geographical areas. Still, one bridge was crossed, allowing Dr. Marty to attend and complete his education.

Dr. Marty continues his journey, completing his residency at Podiatry Hospital in Pittsburgh when he makes another powerful connection: a woman named Marion, who later becomes his wife and his practice manager. Upon completing residency, Dr. Marty acknowledges that he must fulfill the scholarship requirements and relies upon Marion, who is managing the Obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) OBGYN and Pediatrics Clinics at Allegheny General Hospital. Her careful review of the the National Health Service requirements for the private practice option positions the young couple to relocate outside of Pittsburgh in a town called Kittanning. In deciding to open a practice in this area, he again finds himself in a position of having the will to do so but lacks the funding required to reach his potential. A friend and his now-wife, Marion, help Dr. Marty craft a business plan and portfolio, which he presents to the bank. The bank takes a chance on him, offering a $20,000 unsecured loan to start practice.

Your past is often a predictor of your future. In this case, Marty leveraged his skills and experience before attending podiatry school, picked up a hammer and toolbox, and built the rooms where he would open his business. Along with good friends, they prepared a building for treating patients.

If he questioned if there was a need for patients to receive foot and ankle care, that was answered when his first patient walked in the door as he was remodeling the building, and he offered to do a house visit until the place opened. She became not only his first patient in 1984 but also a regular patient and was able to provide a positive testimonial in the neighborhood in which he was establishing himself. Without an advertising budget, Marty and his father crafted what we call grassroots marketing when his proud father, Mr. Marty, a local truck driver, passed out business cards. On the back, his father guarantees a free consultation if you mention that you know his father. In time, he was able to establish a nice customer base.

It is important to note that even though the basics were coming together, he had to get paid. At this time, getting credentials to work with payers and successfully getting reimbursements was not as challenging as today. Marion, was instrumental with administrative tasks such as billing, and she takes on the management of the practice. This, combined with the support of other professionals, helped him with practice management.

As his practice grew, a good friend connected with Dr. Marty, which opened many doors when he introduced him to Bill Goldfarb, DPM. Bill was a billing guru, a sharp businessman, and an innovator in podiatric education. Bill's introduction turned into a connection with PPMA, to which he quickly became a member and made many connections that allowed him to advance his technical skills and his ability to manage his practice.

Dr. Marty saw the value in PPMA and increased his involvement, becoming President in 1996. The increased connections that resulted from his membership and leadership at PPMA increased his ability to hire more professionals, take on a partner, open more practices, and add Marion to manage the practice. As PPMA President, he called non-members in PA and explained the importance of becoming a member. “We must all get together because we are all so little.” He led the charge in increasing dues and worked with other board members as Mike Davis formed separate entities, including The Goldfarb Foundation, and solutions for malpractice that were unattainable at the time. All these things have been instrumental in helping our members today, who may not have practiced when professional liability coverage was unaffordable, to fully appreciate PPMA's offerings.

Dr. Marty wanted to ensure that he tried to take advantage of anything the scope of practice allowed him to do. He increased his surgical knowledge and skill set and challenged hospitals that did not enable podiatrists' hospital privileges or the opportunity to operate. Dr. Marty wanted to treat patients in the hospital and local hospitals. He knocked on doors to do so but was unsuccessful at the time. Through networking with other doctors and professionals, he makes a connection that helps him break through barriers and begins treating bunions and heel pain. Leveraging the expertise of attorneys and a new Executive Director, Mike Davis, Dr. Marty increased the procedures he could perform in Western PA, allowing others to improve their ability to provide care in the local hospitals. He became the Chief of Surgery at Podiatry Hospital of Pittsburgh.

He practiced full-time for four decades, enjoying treating patients at his office, in the hospital setting, and even making house calls. A few years ago, Dr. Marty recognized retirement on the horizon and planned to decrease his practices from seven to two. At the same time, his business partner moved on to become a resident director. A connection at The Goldfarb Foundation meeting helped make retirement a reality when he met Michelle Sparks. He supported her in transitioning to becoming a business owner and part-time employee.

Throughout this lifetime member’s journey, one common theme was the secret to his success: his ability to network and make connections. PPMA enhanced his ability to increase connections while supporting his career growth and retirement.

Now fully retired as of a few months ago, Dr. Marty is still seeing patients who are family members as needed but can spend more time fishing and enjoying his grandchildren. In his gradual transition to retirement, he picked up a new hobby, entertaining immediate family members as Santa Claus. His background in education in his early years at Duquesne, along with his friendship with Bill Goldfarb, DPM, has come full circle as he continues to serve on The Goldfarb Foundation Board. Dr. Marty and Marion have remained in their hometown, where they raised their family and have treated thousands of patients since 1984. PPMA thanks you for your lifetime membership.

PPMA recently recognized Karen Campbell, DPM, as a Pioneer in Podiatry, an award reserved for life members who give back to advance the profession. We caught up with Dr. Campbell as she shared her heart-warming story of her vast achievements.

Campbell entered PCPM (now TUSPM) in 1983, five years after receiving a Biology degree and working in the Bursar's Office at Wilkes University. She sought a rewarding career with work-life balance and chose the podiatric career path over a medical doctor. She would shortly learn how worthwhile this would be, but first, she had to get through school, to which she lived in a neighboring apartment with roommates and, on weekends, drove home to Northeastern Pennsylvania to be with her devoted husband. Less than 20% of her graduating podiatry school class was female.

Campbell entered into a workforce whose culture included one that women could have it all and yet were still struggling with negative behaviors from male peers that included sexual harassment being commonplace.

Dr. Campbell continued her podiatry career journey by taking a leap of faith when she accessed her home's equity to secure a business loan to open her practice. With her faith, her husband's support, and hard work, they made a go of it, so much so that a second location followed.

Her practice focused on her patients, and she chose to be nonsurgical DPM.

Giving back to patients and the community was almost second nature for Campbell, as she did home visits, nursing home care, and general office podiatry. She appreciated the opportunity to provide podiatry screenings, health fairs, speeches to senior groups, and nursing home services. Campbell welcomed students to shadow her so they could learn how rewarding a career could be for them.

Dr. Campbell has volunteered with PPMA and The Goldfarb Foundation since Bill Goldfarb's days as a Student AV Assistant. She's been providing service for nearly 40 years! Some of our members may recognize her as the smiling face greeting participants at our conferences or as the lady providing the CME scans.

A true giver in the field of podiatry and honoree of the Pioneer in Podiatry Award, Dr. Campbell has found the area of service that best suits her personality and skillset. She encourages those who want to get involved more to find a location that speaks to them, whether it be advocacy, student recruitment, or her passion for providing administrative support. "We gain so much when we give," says Campbell.

Dr. Campbell is now retired from the two practices she operated until the end of her career and sold. She is enjoying this time in her life with her husband of over 50 years, Don, and her daughter, Laura. Members attending the upcoming Region Three Meeting or the Annual Clinical Conference may wish her congratulations for her outstanding achievements in the podiatric profession. We appreciate sharing her contributions to what was a rewarding career of one of our life members.

Are you a life member who wants to share your story with PPMA and its members? Contact our office to learn more.

PPMA welcomes new member Artinder P. Nagra, DPM FAENS, to our association. Dr. Nagra is heading up the team at US Neuropathy Centers out of their Camp Hill (Harrisburg) office. Dr. Nagra is a fellowship-trained Peripheral Nerve Surgeon, having completed her training under the esteemed Dr. Stephen Barrett in Marietta, Georgia. Dr. Nagra is a distinguished Fellow of the Association for Extremity Nerve Surgeons. Her team specializes in the treatment of the nerve pain to the lower extremity, including but not limited to diabetic neuropathy, idiopathic peripheral neuropathy, post-surgical pain, Morton’s Neuroma, and complex heel pain.

She appreciates the opportunity to receive new patient referrals from the medical community, including fellow podiatrists, as she strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.

Members can learn more about Dr. Nagra by visiting www.usneuropathycenters.com/providers/. She may be reached at 717-734-4359.

Congratulations! PPMA is proud of you!

So when his local radio station, Gannon University WERG, had the contents of his favorite songs compromised, he knew he needed to do something. Dedicated to ensuring that these classics be heard by him and the listeners in his area, he placed his personal content on a disc and dropped it off at the station. Before you knew it he was asked to host a show. After a few times he finally decided to give it a go, hosting what came to be now known as “The Italian Hour.”

Time flies, and fifteen years later, “Festa Italiana,” the official name of the show, is enjoyed by the listeners in Eerie and in other areas. Dedicated fans tune in on the first and second Sunday of every month. The “hour” is a bit longer, as the show airs from 9 am–noon. Technology has made it possible for those who are not local to enjoy the show by streaming it on the internet or accessing wergfm.com through Gannon University.

Tomassi, a long-time member of PPMA, says that it is well-known that he is a local podiatrist hosting a show that is appreciated by an area with a large Italian-American population. Tomassi tells PPMA that while he has recently sold his practice, BayCity Associates in Podiatry, Inc., but is still working, both podiatry and the show has provided him much enjoyment in life. Both podiatry and hosting Festa Italiana have provided him with the opportunity to connect with others in his community.

His biggest listener may be his younger sister, Dana Russo, who says, “He is the best DJ in the world!”

PPMA Members can learn more about Tomasi’s show at WERGFM.com and https://eriepodiatrists.com/

To complete this event, she began training five months prior, which meant she started a training program back in June, pounding the payment during the summer months. Dr. Metcho competed in the Steamtown Marathon a month before as part of her training.

When she crossed the finish line at “6:15:46,” she was elated. Dr. Metcho mentions that it was an incredible feeling that is almost hard to put into words.

In addition to the physical accomplishment, she was part of a team that helped raise almost half a million dollars, which will do a lot of good in the community.

Dr. Metcho states, “Running this race was a fantastic experience I will never forget! I am so grateful for this opportunity and am thankful to all who supported me, including our podiatry community. I will forever cherish this time and reflect on it with a happy heart.

Miller has been a podiatrist and PPMA member for 40 years! He cites the camaraderie and the support of the profession as the best part of being a part of the organization.

Miller attended podiatry school at Temple and feels that becoming a podiatrist is the best decision he has ever made aside from marrying his wife!

An active advocate of our profession, he has also been the President of Bucks/Montgomery Podiatric Medical Association and is a current member. He is the Chairman of Einstein Medical Center Montgomery and the Staff of Suburban Community Hospital.

As PPMA is working hard to recruit students to attract them to apply to podiatry school, Miller was asked what we can do to increase enrollments, and he feels PPMA is on the right track in reaching out to colleges. Miller feels donating time and money is essential to the future of our profession.

More information about Miller and his practice can be found on his website at https://www.jeffreymillerdpm.com/.

Something that students may overlook is the balance between studying, attending classes, and finding time to eat healthy.

To me, this especially applies to the first two didactic years when classes and
studying are a priority. Planning for having healthy meals is something that is never really talked
about and is often overlooked when developing a schedule. Numerous excuses can be made
that can sway a student to take the easier route and not eat the right foods.

Another component that is complementary to this is exercise, which can easily be the first activity students take away in times of stress.

Eating healthy and exercising are huge components of a successful student not only in the classroom, but being an all around elite student. I find that many students do not want to take time away to exercise or make the correct foods. However, having these scheduled into your day can help with managing the stresses of medical school along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
I personally have exercised my whole life through high school and college, times when the information load was not as heavy as medical school. It was easier to have free time dedicated towards eating right and exercising.

Working out and eating healthy are not aspects I plan on deleting from my daily life, so I had to strengthen my time management skills in order to keep that same regimen. A key component is setting a strict schedule which may include going to the grocery store at the same time on the same day of the week, exercising at the same time everyday, and being smart with the foods you buy.

There are quick healthy options that a student can get to optimize health and time efficiency. A huge barrier is class load, information load, and student exhaustion. These are main factors that prevent a student from accomplishing these goals.

When classes were taking off and I was bombarded with information, this is when time management was key.

Waking up as early as 4:30 to workout before class is a smart and efficient thing to do. This leaves the rest of the day to focus on school without having to worry about dedicating time to exercise.

I advise incoming students to implement this lifestyle before coming to school, so that is already something they are used to. Medical school is all about balance. Waking up early to get tasks done opens up doors to effective studying, exercising, and eating healthy.

The combination of these aspects will leave students feeling more confident and realizing they can push themselves ever further personally and professionally in a healthy way.

Chad Kleinsmith

Class of 2025

Gerald Gronborg, DPM (Jerry) lives in Bedford with his wife of 33 years, Leigh Anne.

Leigh Anne and Jerry have three grown children, Kai, Kara, Conner, and a lovely daughter-in-law, Sydni. 

Education

He is a 1989 graduate of  OCPM.  He did his residency at UPMC Bedford. Jerry has been in practice in South Central PA since finishing his residency in 1992. 

He was first introduced to podiatry when attending high school. He got a job working for a podiatrist doing yard maintenance. Jerry worked for him for several years. It was a joy and gave him an excellent introduction to the field. During his undergraduate studies at Gannon University, he had the opportunity to shadow several podiatrists and decided it was the career path for him!

Practicing Podiatry

Over my many years in practice, he has seen his practice evolve from one that was surgery-centered to one that is a wound care center. Jerry enjoys the challenge of taking on problematic wounds and the satisfaction of helping a patient by saving their limb and healing their wounds. Wounds are much more complex than surgery but far more rewarding. He works in a multidisciplinary group practice with interventional cardiologists, making limb salvaging their specialty.

Student Recruitment

Jerry’s a massive proponent of the podiatry profession.” No one does what we do nearly as well, and we can never stop letting people know that fact,” he proudly states. 

He has been very active in student recruitment over the years by lecturing to preprofessional student groups at colleges and shadowing many high school and college students in his office. Some have gone on to become podiatrists and other medical professionals.

PPMA Membership and Benefits

Jerry first became a member of PPMA as a resident and has been a member ever since. He has been active in the organization, starting as a Delegate from the Central Division to the House of Delegates. Jerry was subsequently elected to The Board of PPMA, eventually serving as President-Elect from 2017-to 2018. Jerry continues as an active consultant to the board and is the APMAPAC coordinator for PA. He also serves as President of the Central Division. He’s a board-certified wound specialist. 

Member benefits are numerous, including a discount on CPME conferences and malpractice insurance. “It is most important to remember that both PPMA and APMA represent us,” he states. They are the organizations that look after our profession on many different levels. Jerry encourages podiatrists to become members and donate to our PACs to ensure fair and equal treatment by hospitals, insurers, and institutions. 

Community Service

Jerry is very involved in his community. He sits on the local Eagle Scout Board of Review. Jerry’s also active in his church, serving as a Cantor, choir member, and Deacon. As you can imagine, he has very little free time but if you want something done, ask a busy person. 

Roxborough Memorial Resident Physician

As a resident, Victoria M. Adeniran, DPM has transitioned from studying to working. She says she is welcoming the world of “adulting.” Victoria is embracing getting to know her co-workers and relating to them. The transition after being in school for so many years feels a little weird, but she knows that everyone in her circumstance goes through this transition.

She is found that giving herself grace as she learns has been helpful, as is seeking and securing trusted mentors that she is able to capture wisdom from.

The increase in earnings is also an adjustment. She knows that it is important to understand how to manage her paychecks is important. Remaining frugal will help secure her fortune. She recommends Dave Ramsey’s readings including “Financial Peace University” to guide her in her journey.

Knowing that student recruitment is a concern for the future of podiatry, Victoria is enthusiastic about introducing the profession to kids and young students. “Students are unable to aspire to a profession they have never heard of,” she states strongly. Spreading awareness about the profession to nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and acquaintances is a fantastic way to get the word out about the profession. She spreads awareness in talking to strangers including medical professionals about the profession. She is certain to include examples of her work and the accomplishments she makes vs. simply stating that she is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon.

She feels as though it is important for the medical community to understand what she does growing the level of respect for what she does for her patients. She cites that name recognition of the career of podiatry is a concern and ensuring that the community places the same value on podiatry that they do medical doctors including that of ensuring podiatrists are compensated equally for the same procedures that other professionals are receiving.

Dr. Victoria Adeniran, DPM, MPH and her podiatry journey can be followed at @VictoriaSisVic on Instagram and on LinkedIn at Victoria M. Adeniran.

As he tended to a patient with battered feet, Dr. Neal Kramer cracked jokes to help the patient relax while also providing tools to fight a fungal infection.

Thursday night, Kramer saw Rene, a resident of the Allentown Rescue Mission’s emergency shelter who was battling a number of foot ailments. When Rene left the examination room, he had topical cream and petroleum jelly, clipped toenails and a better understanding of how to take care of his feet. Read more..

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Sindhu Srinivas completed her Master's Degree at Georgetown University. She worked for a few years before attending podiatry school at 26. 

She discovered podiatry while working as a healthcare consultant. Srinivas chose this profession because of the range of podiatry career options that include private practices, group practices, and multiple sub-specialties. She found podiatry to be unique in comparison to other fields. The podiatry profession allows podiatrists to focus on areas of interest at various stages. 

She attended podiatry school at Barry University in North Miami Shores, Florida. Dr. Srinivas has been appointed a leadership role at Geisinger Podiatry as Co-Chief in the residency program for 2022-2023.

"Residency is an enriching and challenging time. When compounded with a surgical residency, during a pandemic, it is a whirlwind," says Srinivas.

She has learned that it is essential to adapt but continue to put one's best foot forward. Srinivas is very thankful to attend a program that supports her growth during the different stages of her career. 

Dr. Srinivas's most recent accomplishment has been the opportunity to serve as chief resident for the upcoming year. Stating, "It has been one of my largest accomplishments because many of our attendings participate in the selection and their recognition of the quality of my work is an honor."

When asked how she thinks our state can increase the podiatry profession's brand awareness, Srinivas believes recruitment of podiatrists in PA must begin at engagement with resident physicians and students at an early stage. She goes on to state, "We need to focus on utilizing social media platforms and other non-traditional mediums in highlighting and creating young member seminars, local conferences, and membership benefits. We should try to advocate for students to explore and shadow different varieties of podiatry within our state at the early onset of their medical journey. I also feel like we have a unique opportunity to have a medical school within our state. I think by highlighting the growth and potential for our profession in PA at an early juncture, this will prompt students and residents to look into practicing here in the long term."

Srinivas regularly accesses PPMA's website (www.ppma.org) to learn more about growing in the podiatric profession, including reading PPMA newsletters to see what other members are discussing.

She also accesses The Goldfarb Foundation (www.goldfarbfoundation.org) website to access online lectures.

Dr. Sindhu Srinivas thinks that one of the things that podiatrists can do for the greater good of the profession is open practices and day-to-day activities to individuals ranging in age from elementary students to other physicians for mentorship and accessibility.

Srinivas thinks very few speak about our profession or allow students to visit. Many individuals do not know about podiatry or discover it quite late, just as she had. Having access to good mentorship can be difficult. She thinks that greater advocacy for our profession, beginning in local high schools to colleges and onwards, will highlight our profession. 

She is active on social media, initially starting a page to educate pre-meds of the opportunities and challenges present in podiatry and medicine. She used it as almost a residency diary. As Srinivas's social media presence has grown, she utilizes the page to provide mentorship and showcase the reality and importance of balance and life outside of medicine. 

PPMA members can look Dr. Sindhu Srinivas up on Instagram at @drskinandbones.

Mansi Patel, DPM

Practice: Paoli and Center City FootCare Centers

Location: Philadelphia, PA 

Website: https://www.paolifootcarecenter.com/podiatry-staff.html

Instagram: mansi.patel.dpm 

What made you choose podiatry as a profession?

It's a diverse field, in which you have the flexibility of choosing what you want to do and how you want to practice. 

What can we do to encourage young persons to pursue a career in podiatry?

We can encourage them to shadow offices and residency programs. Perhaps we can even visit undergraduate campuses to make them to increase awareness.

Who has been a strong mentor or supporter of your career/journey?

I’ve had many supporters. My family has been there for me. They always reminded me that it's all worth it, no matter how tough it is. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

Soak in all the moments with my one-year-old daughter. I enjoy dancing, wedding coordination, DIY projects, and traveling.

How have you helped patients improve their health?

I educate my patients as much as I can. I always explain things to patients in terms they can easily understand. Additionally, I encourage them to do their own research outside of the office from trustable sources that include videos.

How did you select the area in which you are providing care?

My husband did his residency in Philadelphia and is currently in fellowship. I joined him after medical school when I got a residency a little outside of Philadelphia in South Jersey. The city of Philadelphia has been our home for 5 years now. 

How can we encourage patients to practice wellness and preventative care while remaining safe (COVID)?

- Education! Education! Education! I can't say that enough. We can always send out informational fliers, emails, videos etc. to remind them that if they can't physically attend the doctor's office, it doesn't mean they shouldn't take care of themselves. 

Is there any advice that you would like to share with our members that have been a game changer in improving the care you provide, communicating with patients, increasing revenues/decreasing expenses that would be helpful for others to learn?

- Join local and professional physician Facebook Groups. It is the best way to share and get information. Listen to the white coat investor podcasts. Share your knowledge with your colleagues. Ask them questions! You learn a lot from other people's experiences, so always think of them as a resource. 

Where did you go to school?

- New York College of Podiatric Medicine 

David Calderone is currently with Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster, LTD

What inspired you to pursue podiatry? 
My mother worked in healthcare for 30 years. Throughout her career, she was in multiple departments including medical records. At that time, charts had to be signed in person, so she was able to meet many doctors and build relationships with them. She always really enjoyed podiatrists!

Early in my education, I was pursuing a biology degree. One of my college counselors encouraged me to consider a medical career. My mother suggested podiatry. I observed one of the doctors she knew and was drawn to the way patients’ lives were changed by receiving care in his office. 

How has your career in podiatry changed? 
I’ve now been practicing for 26+ years. I lived and worked in Detroit for well over a decade as a partner in a small group practice. Many of my patients were diabetics so I have extensive experience with limb salvage, non-healing ulcers, gangrene, and more. 

I moved to PA about a year and a half ago. I joined Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster and now work with 22 orthopedic surgeons. As the only podiatrist in the group (and non-surgical member), I’ve enjoyed collaborating as a team. The respect and mutual admiration for each other’s specialties have been instrumental in treating our patients effectively.

What has been most enjoyable for you throughout your career? 
I’ve helped lots of patients who have struggled with flatfoot, chronic tendinitis, etc. It is amazing that people get as far as they do in their life without receiving proper care for their foot pain. A simple referral to PT, custom orthotic, and recommendation for proper shoes can dramatically improve someone’s life. 

What advice do you have for podiatry students? 
I’ve seen many patients with pain in their feet for 10+ years. They come to the office in tears sharing their story. Often they do not need surgery. They need lifestyle advice. Prescribing PT, teaching proper taping techniques, etc. Because of this, you need to understand the biomechanics of the foot. Surgery has its place, but podiatry has so many directions. There’s a whole other side that helps patients to have better lives and happier. I’ve had a lot more satisfaction by improving someone’s blood flow and saving their leg than treating a bunion. There’s no other feeling like meeting a patient who limped in crying and helping them walk out smiling.

What does your future look like? 
In 2025 I will have been in practice for 30 years. I love what I do but I’m also looking forward to retirement someday!

You can find Lindsay Hummel, DPM at Hummel Foot and Ankle, LLC

What in your opinion helped you make the decision to become a podiatrist? 
During my first two years of undergrad, I was a pharmacy major. As I moved through the curriculum I realized that is not what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I felt like I needed both my mind and my hands busy for the majority of the work day. I stumbled upon Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine while I was living in Philadelphia, and I can’t imagine any other career for myself.

What are the most important aspects that podiatry has brought into your life?
It sounds cliché, but helping people. I think one of my proudest accomplishments thus far in my career has been implementing and growing podiatric home visits, especially during a pandemic. By providing a home visit service there are more people receiving care without having to worry about transportation, fears of going into a medical facility – both of which are the two major factors that seem to have prevented some patients from seeking podiatric care within the last year.

How do you propose to ignite the idea of a podiatric career to students? 
I think mentorship can play a huge role in getting both high school and undergraduate students interested in podiatry. There’s a lot to be said about seeing someone excited about their profession and in their element—for students its so motivational to see someone you look up to and respect doing what they love to do… and then thinking “I want to be like them”. 

What has PPMA done for you lately? 
Maybe not “lately”, but when I was the PPMA representative for Temple I attended a PPMA meeting and it was such an inspiring, interesting experience! PPMA does such a great job of promoting podiatry and being an advocate for podiatry – they are constantly working toward the future of the profession. 

How have you been handling working during this pandemic? 
My staff and I have been “full steam ahead”.  I bought my practice 6 months prior to graduating from residency, when COVID-19 wasn’t even a thing. Fast forward to last June when I took my first steps into the “real world” and had to navigate the COVID-19 situation while running a new business. We adapted new protocols, followed the CDC guidelines, and took advice from mentors and colleagues. Today, the special adjustments we needed to make are now second nature and its business as usual (well, as “usual” as it can be). 

Dr. Casey is an Associate Podiatrist with Berkshire Podiatry Center, Wyomissing, PA. She completed a three-year residency at Reading Hospital earlier this year and earned her DPM degree from TUSPM in 2017. She enjoys baking, traveling, and volunteering for Reading Hospital sports. 

1. What in your opinion helped you make the decision to become a podiatrist?
After researching medical professions, I found the scope of practice and variety of patient population the driving force in deciding to become a podiatrist.

2. What are the most important aspects that podiatry has brought into your life?
Podiatry has brought a true variety to my life. Not everything is a bunion or ingrown toenail; it ranges from vascular to dermatology to orthopedic surgery and other conditions.

Although our scope of practice is the foot and ankle, our scope is much more. It really is an inclusion of the patient’s social and mental health as well. Recently I had a patient who has cognitively declined with dementia, however it did not appear her PCP or her family had seen this change. She had not followed up with her PCP for several months due to COVID. When I called her PCP, we were able to formulate a plan with family and home- nursing to get the care the patient needed. I could have just gone about my day after that office visit, but it was gratifying being able to help make a change in a patient’s life who definitely needed it.

3. How do you propose to ignite the idea of a podiatric career to students?
At this time, having virtual educational sessions with high school and college students, at job fairs, with live ques-tions and answer sessions would be an excellent way in igniting the idea of podiatry to students.

4. What has PPMA done for you lately?
PPMA has kept me abreast of all the office, billing, and COVID concerns I have had.

5. How have you been handling working during this pandemic?
Work has begun to pick back up, however not to 100 percent pre-COVID. Temperature monitoring and vigilant mask- wearing of both staff and patients has been crucial at this time. I have been wearing my mask and encouraging others to do so, trying to be a leading example for my patients.
I would like to pass along a positive outlook on the pandemic. We have been able to better control the amount of ICU admissions, have potentially a vaccine on the horizon, and have enabled patients to feel safe and comfortable in the office and in the operating room. Looking forward to the winter, we will continue seeing patients and allowing them to get back to some normalcy, however will continue with our cleaning and safety protocols.

Dr. Sansosti is Clinical Assistant Professor at TUSPM, Depts. of Biomechanics and Surgery, Philadelphia, PA. She is also Faculty at Temple University Foot and Ankle Institute and Temple University Hospital’s Podiatric Surgical Residency Program. A Member on the Council of Faculties, with the AACPM and an Associate with the ACFAS, she will be joining the PPMA Board as Parliamentarian toward the end of this year.

1. What in your opinion helped you make the decision to become a podiatrist?
My exposure to the field of podiatry started as a patient. In high school, I was treated by a local podiatrist who, through conversation, knew that I was interested in a career in medicine. He invited me to come work for the group initially on the clerical side of the practice, then eventually was trained and worked on the clinical side of the practice once I started college. It was through this tremendous experience that I grew to love the field and knew that it was the right choice for me.

2. What are the most important aspects that podiatry has brought into your life?
I feel very fortunate to be part of this profession. It has afforded me the ability to help patients of all ages with a variety of pathologies. It is exceptionally rewarding to be at an academic institution where I have the opportunity to teach our students and residents as well. This is a tight knit profession with a common passion and goal, and it is a privilege to be a part of it.

3. How do you propose to ignite the idea of a podiatric career to students?
My knowledge of and interest in the field came about relatively early in my educational career. I think the more we can expose students to our profession at the high school and college level, the better. Ensuring that we are part of career fairs, especially at the college level when pre-health students are just diving into the various possibilities, is critical. Mentor networks and shadowing experiences really allow students to immerse themselves in our profession and showcase just how much our field has to offer.

4. What has PPMA done for you lately?
PPMA has always done a great job of keeping its members informed on various important updates. Especially now that we are in the midst of the COVID pandemic, the frequent email communications about practice changes, PPE, resources available to practitioners, etc., have all been very helpful. 

5. How have you been handling working during this pandemic?
Regardless of practice type, we are all experiencing changes related to COVID. Being at an academic institution, we continue to adapt not only our clinical practice, but also our teaching. In the spring, we transitioned to remote learning with both didactic and clinical training; involving both synchro-nous and asynchronous online learning opportunities. As things continue to evolve and hopefully improve in regards to the pandemic, we are looking to progressively expand our clinical hours and reincorporate student participation in on-site clinical training, while being very cognizant of the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and patients.

Dr. Matthew Bianco is the newest Associate at Associates in Podiatry in Pittsburgh, PA, offering patients conservative and surgical treatment options for various podiatric ailments. A surgical area he is most interested in taking to the next level is minimally invasive surgery. His goal is to perform any procedure that gets patients back on their feet as quickly as possible. 

Dr. Bianco became interested in podiatry as a college student. He knew he wanted to pursue a field in medicine and decided to shadow a podiatrist in the office as well as the operating room. He became instantly enamored by the profession, and he felt providing patients with the satisfaction of pain-free return to activity/ambulation was crucial to their lives.

To recruit students to podiatry school, Dr. Bianco encourages exposure at the collegiate level because many college students are thinking about “What field of medicine to enter?” Many of these possible candidates unfortunately are not aware podiatry is its own specialty. He believes that if students had the opportunity to shadow in the clinical setting and operating room, they would have a better idea of the multi-faceted profession he is privileged to provide his patients.

Dr. Bianco’s favorite part about being a DPM is the satisfaction of knowing that he helped a patient return to his/her normal lifestyle after a painful period of time; it is a rewarding experience that will never get old.

Dr.  Rowe-Bauer is a physician at Penn State Sports Medicine in State College, PA. She is also Assistant Professor with the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation. She is a Diplomate of the ABFAS and ABPM and was part of the “Fit Feet” team this past June at the Summer Special Olympics in State College.