March 19, 2018

APMA is deeply saddened by the passing on February 7 of Harry Goldsmith, DPM, after a battle with cancer. Dr. Goldsmith was a noted coding expert and a consultant to the APMA Health Policy and Practice department. His vast knowledge of coding was instrumental in the development and evolution of the APMA Coding Resource Center, and he supported APMA’s RUC and CPT initiatives, committee activities, and other efforts. Dr. Goldsmith also was a longtime delegate to the APMA House of Delegates, at one time chairing the Resolutions Subcommittee.

Dr. Goldsmith was a consultant to many national third-party payers, including Medicare (Southern California), Blue Cross of California, managed care companies, and unions/trusts. He was a noted lecturer and author on topics of managed care, reimbursement, coding and billing, practice management, and fraud and abuse. Dr. Goldsmith was CEO of Codingline, an online forum specializing in foot and ankle coding, reimbursement, and practice management. He was also a consultant to PICA and individual practitioners and groups. He was a staunch and ethical advocate for appropriate coding.

Dr. Goldsmith was passionate about podiatry. He was a mentor to countless physicians, and his presentations at various events were eagerly anticipated—and marked by his signature wry sense of humor. He was a member of the Podiatry Management Hall of Fame and recipient of too many accolades and awards to name here.

“Harry will be deeply missed,” said APMA Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM. “He was not only a valued expert, he was a personal friend and confidant and a true friend to the profession, his peers, and the APMA staff.”

Dr. Goldsmith attended the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (now Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine) and practiced podiatry in California before devoting himself full-time to consulting. He was certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (administrative diplomate); a Certified Surgical Foot & Ankle Coder; a member of APMA; and a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Dr. Goldsmith is survived by his wife, Susan; sons Brian, Mark, and Jon Goldsmith, DPM, and their families; as well as two brothers. A small, private service will be held in his memory Friday, February 9. You may make a donation to the APMA Educational Foundation in Dr. Goldsmith’s memory by visiting www.apma.org/donate.

Watch a presentation made at the APMA 2018 House of Delegates meeting in Dr. Goldsmith's honor.