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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 17,218 Subscribers Daily
December 16, 2015 #5,551  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2015- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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In general, how long do your patients wait for an appointment? |
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| AT THE COLLEGES | |
NYCPMers Care for Runners at New York City Marathon
NYCPM faculty and students have participated on the medical team at the New York City Marathon for well over 20 years. Volunteering as part of the medical team for sporting events such as the New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon, Hamptons Marathon, NYC Triathlon, Atlantic City Marathon, Central Park Marathon, New Jersey Marathon, and many others, “is not only part of our curriculum, but part of our culture,” says Loretta Logan, DPM, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Orthopedics and Pediatrics.
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NYCPM medical team at NYC Marathon |
November 1st, 2015 was no different. Four NYCPM DPMs along with 16 third-year students volunteered to assist the medical team in taking care of the TCS New York City Marathon runners who braved the course through the five boroughs of New York City.
Source: Footprints [December 2015]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Sore Feet can Benefit from Off-Loading Pads: CA Podiatrist
On an average day, people might take about 5,000 steps. Even for someone who weighs as little as 100 pounds, by the end of the day that's 500,000 pounds of pressure exerted on the feet, said Dr. Jason Morris, a podiatrist at Beach Cities Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Manhattan Beach, CA. "So you get a picture why our feet get sore," he added. Foam-only arch insoles offer little support, Morris said. While not everyone will need the same amount of support, he said the foam-only arch supports get crushed when weight is put on them.
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Dr. Jason Morris |
Morris said he recommends off-loading pads, like Dr. Jill's Foot Pads, which help to dissipate the pressure. Off-loading pads are put slightly away from where the pain is located, he said. "If you have pain in the ball of your foot, put that pad slightly behind the area of pain. The pressure gets distributed," he said.
Source: Debbie Carlson, Chicago Tribune [12/14/15]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
GA Podiatrist Collects Shoes For The Homeless
Many years ago, one podiatrist moved to Augusta and introduced a new charity. Now, the community goes to him every holiday season to contribute their gently used shoes to someone in need. Dr. Kent Kronowski says he was the new guy in town and thought starting the shoe drive would be a good way to connect with the community. Since then, he hasn’t stopped because now the community comes to him asking about the start of the yearly shoe collection. Kronowski, of the Foot and Ankle Group, has been collecting shoes for the homeless for more than 30 years.
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Dr. Kent Kronowski |
“We have to do it because the patients want to give and that’s just fantastic,” Kronowski told WJBF News Channel 6. Shoes in bags and boxes, for people off all ages, are dropped off at the podiatrist’s office all month-long.
Source: Stefany Bornman, WJBF News Channel 6 [12/10/15]
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| PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS | |
The Podiatree Company Acquires KeryFlex Nail Restoration System
The Podiatree Company has reached an agreement with Pod-Advance, Inc. to acquire the business assets of KeryFlex Nail Restoration System. Keryflex is a safe, non-systemic, in-office application to restore the appearance of a patient’s natural nails. The product allows a podiatrist to remodel a patient‘s nails affected by fungus, nail dystrophies, and trauma.
The Podiatree Company is a provider of ultra-premium foot care products exclusive to the podiatry profession with a product offering formulated for foot health. In addition to its fast growing Fortinia and Adessa brands, The Podiatree Company also co-promotes Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Care products and the CaerVision Podiatry Network.
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF OF THE DAY | |
Four Steps to Managing Unrealistic Patients
Develop standard protocols for satisfying the most common wants or needs in a way that is, at most, minimally disruptive to the practice.
For any given practice, most requests for special consideration are relatively common. Think about how you want these handled, write it down, and tell your staff. Tell them, too, what information you need to make a decision on situations that fall outside the norm.
Emergency prescriptions are a great example. When can the staff agree to send in an authorization? Will you authorize a month's supply or just a few days? Under what circumstances must the physician be explicitly consulted first? When must the patient be seen first? What can he do in the meantime?
Source: Adapted from Carol Stryker, Physicians Practice
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Bunion Denial
Has anyone experienced denials from Blue Cross Blue Shield (or any other insurance company) for treatment of bunions (M20.11, M20.12)? The BCBS EOB indicates PR-96 (non-covered charges) and N130 (consult plan benefit documents/guidelines for information about restrictions for this service). The customer service reps indicate that bunions are a plan exclusion under her policy. I tried appealing, as this case is not cosmetic, but rather impinges on her quality of life and causes her pain that will require surgical correction. My efforts to appeal were to no avail. If anyone had similar experiences, were you able to resolve the problem? If so, how?
Andrea Travis, Broken Arrow, OK
Response: I would definitely fight on this one.
It seems that this is either a "glitch" in their system or they are simply playing a game to not pay the claim. I have not heard of a plan not paying for these unless there is a coding problem, etc. It appears you have the right codes. You may, however, want to add a pain diagnosis such as M79.67- to your claim. I think you will have to fight a bit with them. Be sure to include op notes, etc. in your battles.
Mike King, DPM, Fall River, MA
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
RE: Regulators Having It Both Ways
From: Michael DeVito, DPM
The topic of degree change has come up often. How is it that the podiatry profession is regulated to report in the same manner as MDs and DOs through the endless ongoing maze of PQRS and Meaningful Use programs? I realize CMS/regulators offer different measures and choices, but most all point back to the internist or family practice scope of practicing. If you ask most podiatrists, they would answer that the relevant measure is the diabetic foot screening examination. I know reporting is voluntary, but technically, it doesn’t feel that way when the future is all about ongoing penalties for non-compliance. The medical associations should never agree to a system with ongoing yearly penalties.
Many have said it's good medicine, etc. to take blood pressures, report on flu and pneumonia vaccines, counsel on BMI and tobacco, etc. , However, if we are going to spend our time acting and reporting like the MD/DO, then why are we not reimbursed the same way for these types of visits? So it seems to be they are having it both ways by aligning podiatry with all specialties for their reporting purposes - but excluding us on the reimbursement side by the DPM degree. If we remain in the government regulators' eyes a limited scope of practice, then we should be in a limited scope of REPORTING capacity! Enough with all the complicated registries, dashboards, and reporting.
Michael DeVito, DPM, Chicago Ridge, IL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) - PART 1A | |
From: Brian Kiel, DPM
Dr. Rich Derner made perhaps the most important statement about podiatry that I have ever seen that contradicts the common thought among all of us and should lead the way to a dramatic change in our profession. He said, "Just because you graduate podiatry school, doesn't mean you deserve to be a surgeon." How very true.
When you graduate from general medical school, you are a doctor, not a neurosurgeon or gastroenterologist. We need to have a track to practice non-surgical podiatry, without the nonsense of a 3-year surgical program. Everyone cannot and should not do surgery, but many can practice great podiatry and serve the public without spending three unnecessary years learning something they will not or cannot use.
Brian Kiel, DPM, Memphis, TN
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) - PART 1B | |
From: Michael L. Rosenblatt, DPM
I appreciated Dr. Richard Derner's comments about the "necessity that podiatrists be inclusive of both non-surgical and surgical DPMs." Since Dr. Derner writes for ACFAS, that comment had meaning. But I was disappointed in his using the word "deserve" when he suggests that not all DPMs "deserve" to be surgeons. This word suggests lack of respect. As DPMs, we already work under a shadow of hierarchy. Why add more among ourselves?
By way of example: When I had my pacemaker installed, it was done by an MD surgeon. Yet, there is a real need for physicians to treat cardiac conditions conservatively, as well as manage them after the surgery is completed. Some patients are better treated without...
Editor's note: Dr. Rosenblatt's extended-length letter can be read here.
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Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgeon - Massachusetts
The Division of Podiatric Surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School are recruiting a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon to work in a multi-specialty, hospital-based group. Minimum requirements include completion of a residency in an accredited three-year podiatric surgical residency program and experience in hindfoot reconstructive surgery. Academic appointment at Harvard Medical School at the rank of Instructor or Assistant Professor will be commensurate with experience, training, and achievement in the field. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Women and minorities are particularly encouraged to apply. Letters of application or nomination should be sent, together with a CV to: Eileen Rose, Administrative Director erose@bidmc.harvard.edu
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP) | |
From: Neil H Hecht, DPM
In reference to Dr. Oghoorian’s post “Outrageous ICD-10 Code of the Day- my question is “do pigs have legs?” - So if the 5th met fracture of his patient was caused by a pig, which pig leg caused the fracture? How do we specify such?
Well, actually, my comments in reference to Dr. Oghoorian’s post are as follows. He shouldn’t be so foolish as to question the short or long-term involvement of CMS and the insurance companies use of the ICD-10 codes, the treatment involved, or the likely need to refund money for professional services rendered. He is utilizing his intellect, wisdom, good judgement, and experience, as well as common sense. He should know better than to exercise his brain when dealing with the aforementioned payers!
Disclaimer: Dr. Oghoorian was one of my best residents many years ago. He is an exceptional doctor and deserves my admiration. I hope he will forgive my satire in agreeing with his post! I hope the questions posed in his original post will generate appropriate evaluation of our dilemma in regard to ICD-10 mandates and their potential use against us financially.
Neil H Hecht, DPM, Tarzana, CA
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous New ICD-10 Code of the Day
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Used by veterinarians who treat birds? |
Source: Keith L. Martin, Medical Economics
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Choose any or ALL from 30+ CME Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PART 1 - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LOWER HUDSON VALLEY, NY
Multiple locations. 50 minutes from NYC. PMSR RRA. Surgical practice, strong surgical volume. Must be willing to perform all phases of Podiatry. New graduates or experienced practitioners. Salary 110k-120k plus bonus. Please email letter of intent, CV and surgical logs to podiatrypractice@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Busy practice looking to expand. Looking for a well trained, well rounded, energetic podiatrist. Should be competent in forefoot, rearfoot and ankle surgical procedures as well as wound care. All aspects of podiatry, pediatrics, orthopedic and surgical. Competitive salary, bonus, benefits and buy-in potential. Send cover letter, CV to footdocva@cox.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Full-time associate leading to partnership. Immediate position available. Busy office with multiple locations. Full scope practice. Three year residency preferred. ABPS Board qualified/certified. California license required. Benefits included. Inland Empire. Please forward resume to familyfootcenter@verizon.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
available immediately in a busy, 30 year established, single location, high visibility office with digital x-ray, DME, diabetic shoe store, and EMR. Good patient volume and potential for partnership or purchase. Contact samuel10530@yahoo.com.
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE NEEDED FOR PARK AVENUE NYC OFFICE
Immediate Hire. We are looking for a reliable, residency trained podiatrist for an upscale Park Avenue office. Please fax CVto 212-889-6150.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MARYLAND, DC SUBURBS
Large, well established, multi-office practice looking for an Associate to begin July 2016. Looking for a highly motivated, surgically trained, outgoing, ethical Podiatrist to join us. Walk in day one with a full schedule. Must be at least Board Qualified by start date with Maryland license. Competitive compensation package with excellent base salary, bonus structure, benefits, and partnership opportunity. Well rounded Practice that covers all aspects of Podiatry. Cover Letter and CV to Sharon at MarylandPodiatry@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA
Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, great benefits including malpractice coverage. Excellent opportunity for a promising future. To apply, go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE WANTED - SOUTHWEST, FL
Associate position: now or July '16: must be BC or BQ by ABFAS, ability to work independently on complex cases. Hospital rounds, ER calls, great work ethic, team players needed. Fellowship experience preferred, not mandatory. LOI, LOR from director, CV. great salary + bonus, partnership buy-in. Naples, FL klamdpm@hotmail.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 16,500 DPMs AND STUDENTS
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, PM News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 16,500 subscribers. For details,click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.
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| CLASSIFIED ADS PART 2 - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
PART TIME OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE - LODI, NJ
Podiatry office space available for use more than half the week in Lodi, NJ. 2 fully stocked treatment rooms, digital x-ray and EHR available. Perfect for someone looking to expand their practice into the Northern NJ area in Bergen County, or just starting out. Currently only seeing patients on Mondays and Thursdays. If interested please email lodipodiatrist@gmail.com
PART TIME OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – PHILADELPHIA, PA
Podiatry office space available for use more than half the week in downtown Philadelphia. More than 2,000 square feet of treatment space with digital x-ray, diagnostic US and EHR available. I am looking to segueway out of practice in the next several years and this could be a beginning opportunity for an individual to gradually purchase the practice and create their own right now. Also seeking a preceptor to be involved with the practice. For more info: ediamond7@comcast.net.
PRACTICE FOR SALE -FIVE TOWNS, LONG ISLAND
40 y/o podiatry practce and medical co-op for sale. Own your own office. Very low monthly cost. Located in the Five Towns on Long Island. Fully equipped, wheelchair accessible, ground floor, no steps. Office also suitable for renting to other professionals. Contact at MLife.Rudolph@gmail.Com or 516 316-6690
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - Q-CLEAR LASER
FDA cleared for fungus. Fully serviced this year. $7,500. No such price anywhere. Dr. Zuckerman footcare@comcast.net 856-229-2939. Wont last I promise.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET
PadNet, complete system, $2,000. Buyer pays shipping from Missouri. If interested please contact: skerfrank@hotmail.com.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 16,500 DPMs AND STUDENTS
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, PM News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 16,500 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.
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| Disclaimers |
Acceptance and publication by this newsletter of an advertisement, news story, or letter does not imply endorsement or approval by Barry Block or Kane Communications of the company, product, content or ideas expressed in this newsletter. Podiatric Medical News does not represent the views, and is a separate entity from Podiatry Management® Magazine and Podiatry Management® Online. Any information pertaining to legal matters should not be considered to be legal advice, which can only be obtained via individual consultation with an attorney. Information about Medicare billing should be confirmed with your State CAC.
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR
ENTITY TO WHICH IT IS ADDRESSED AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS
PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE.
If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an
employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the
intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination,
distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly
prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please
immediately notify me and you are hereby instructed to delete all
electronic copies and destroy all printed copies.
DISCLAIMER: Internet communications cannot be guaranteed to be
either timely or free of viruses.
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