WesternU College of Podiatric Medicine and PICA provide students with clinical training and professional development
Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Podiatric Medicine (CPM) welcomed DPM 2026 and DPM 2025 students back to campus for a dynamic two-day workshop on Dec. 6-7, 2024, sponsored by PICA, the nation’s leading provider of medical professional liability insurance for podiatric physicians in the United States. The event featured presentations and discussions led by renowned experts in podiatric medicine, emphasizing clinical skills, professional development, and global impact.
The program began Friday morning with hands-on anatomy lab sessions led by Dr. Luke Cicchinelli, PICA’s Chief Medical Director. The DPM 2025 and 2026 classes worked closely with Dr. Cicchinelli to deepen their understanding of surgical anatomy. After their lunch session, he went over critical concepts related to risk awareness, risk prevention and patient care.
Friday afternoon sessions were open to students from all CPM cohorts, ensuring a broad and well-attended audience. Dr. Cicchinelli delivered an engaging presentation on Risk Awareness and Medical Malpractice, providing guidance on managing liability risks in podiatric practice. This was followed by Kelly Heinen from Northwestern Mutual. Her presentation on Financial Awareness provided students with essential strategies to plan for their financial futures and confidently handle unforeseen challenges like unexpected life events.
Friday evening began with a reception sponsored by PICA, offering attendees an opportunity to network and connect. Following the reception, Dr. Thomas Chang, an internationally acclaimed podiatric surgeon, delivered a Continuing Medical Education (CME) lecture on Managing Forefoot Surgery Complications. His thought-provoking presentation challenged students and faculty to critically analyze diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies.
On Saturday, the focus shifted to a panel discussion facilitated by Dr. Cicchinelli. Panelists Dr. Thomas Chang, Dr. Jonathan Labovitz, Dr. Stephen Wan, and Dr. Jacqueline Truong shared their insights on Medical Missions and the Impact of Global Health and Education. The discussion highlighted the significant role podiatric care and education play in improving global health, inspiring students to consider their potential impact on underserved populations and helping them identify how they can participate in these unique opportunities to give back.
WesternU CPM is proud to host events like this, offering students invaluable opportunities to learn from experts so they are better prepared for all aspects of their future career, refine their clinical skills, and explore the broader implications of their roles as podiatric physicians.
