APMA News - January/February 2022 - 15

Series in the summer of 2020 and were able to
hold a hybrid Annual Scientifi c Meeting in person
and virtually this last summer for our meeting in
Denver. Other achievements include a very popular
virtual Young Physicians' Institute meeting for the
last two years, along with new webinars and
podcasts that our younger members and potential
podiatric students have fully embraced. I have
never had so many potential students ask for a
Zoom meeting, let alone a shadowing opportunity
to discuss our profession. APMA has defi nitely
taken advantage of online education and training
and has established the new Online Learning
Center as a resource that I believe will have value
long after the pandemic. We have captured an
audience that we might never have realized
without the repercussions of the pandemic.
APMA News: You had a somewhat unique trajectory
to the presidency, as you served for two years as
treasurer when governance changes eliminated
the role of vice president. How do you think that
had an impact on your perspective and/or preparedness
for this new role?
Dr. Pickard: Since I was never a vice president, I
can't say what I was missing out on, but being the
treasurer for two years, particularly during the
COVID-19 pandemic, certainly was unique. I have a
greater appreciation for the ability of APMA to pivot
quickly when a situation calls for fresh thinking.
Because of the great care APMA has taken in
safeguarding our strategic reserves over many years,
we were fortunate to be able to off er fi nancial relief
for our members. Of course, our fantastic Deputy
Executive Director and Chief Business Offi cer, Denis
Russell, CPA, CAE, gets most, if not all the credit. He
also is responsible for tying the fi ve pillars of APMA's
strategic goals: Advocate, Educate, Research, Lead,
and Manage, directly to our budgetary expenses
through our operational plan. That report really gives
a clear understanding of where the APMA dollars go
and keeps APMA focused.
APMA News: What do you believe the profession
needs to accomplish in the year ahead?
Dr. Pickard: We have three states that still need a
modernized scope of practice that includes ankle
privileges. They are Alabama, Massachusetts, and
Mississippi. We are very close to accomplishing this
in all three states.
Despite coming very close in past years,
we still have not passed the HELLPP [Helping
Ensure Life- and Limb-Saving Access to Podiatric
Physicians] Act. I know this profession is weary of
this legislative hurdle, but we must continue the
fi ght. Of course, the recent denial of access to the
USMLE by the National Board of Medical Examiners
and the Federation of State Medical Boards needs
to be addressed. This profession and its leaders
will need to work together to determine our next
move.
Finally, the Board of Trustees along with APMA
staff will also be developing other important goals
during the strategic planning session this year.
APMA News: What would you ask members to do?
Dr. Pickard: Get involved. Whether that is at a state
level or national level, your active participation in
this very small profession is critical. Our national
organization is only as healthy and successful as
the state components.
Get to know your legislators, both at the state
and national level. Relationships established and
solidifi ed before we make the " ask " are vital to our
legislative goals. Encourage young members to get
involved and help mentor them if you are a more
experienced member. If you are a younger member,
just start by networking with other members. Our
Young Physicians' Program is constantly expanding
and will help guide you throughout your career. As
Winston Churchill said, " You make a living by what
you get; you make a life by what you give. "
APMA News: Tell us about your current professional
life and your family.
Dr. Pickard: I am in private practice currently in
Chicago and have enjoyed the independence that I
have as a solo practitioner and entrepreneur. I feel
grateful that this profession has allowed me to
experience a great work/life balance.
I have one son who received his Civil
Engineering degree from the University of
Wisconsin-Madison and another son who is
studying Journalism at the University of MissouriColumbia.
My husband supports me 24/7. I could
not be where I am today without him!
What are your hobbies?
Dr. Pickard: I am a huge fan of college sports,
particularly MIZZOU football, my alma mater. I have
also adopted Wisconsin football since my oldest
son went to college in Madison. I enjoy watching
my amazing sons Walter and Nate grow and
develop into outstanding young men. I also enjoy
attending the Chicago Lyric Opera, Chicago
Symphony Orchestra, various ballet performances,
and Broadway shows with my husband Randy and
close friends.
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APMA News - January/February 2022

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