From: Connie Lee Bills, DPM
We started this about a month ago. Patients are more likely to pay cash or check when faced with a 3.5% fee. My optometrist started it about two months ago and spurred me to follow suit.
I checked with the local credit union and they said HSA cards can be used for the fees as long as they are from a healthcare registered facility. Everyone should be doing this.
Connie Lee Bills, DPM, Mount Pleasant, MI
From: Robert Boudreau, DPM
I've casually read the posts regarding the subject of "Compensation Rates for New Practitioners" trying not to bite my tongue off. Dr. Fellner, please understand this salient point: no one owes new practitioners a job or a certain salary. Your degree and $4.50 will get you a cup of coffee at Starbucks. New practitioners seem to think that just because they have a degree and specialized training, the profession owes them a living to repay their massive debt which they incurred. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Ask any person with a law degree who currently drives a taxi cab. Most new graduates seem to think that once they enter the job market, they are entitled to high salaries, paid medical, dental, vacation, malpractice, CME, etc. And they are equally surprised that "overnight success" takes about 15 years of hard work to achieve. In the real world, hard work, persistence, and a lot of luck are the keys to real success.
Robert Boudreau, DPM, Tyler, TX
From: Joe Agostinelli, DPM
I just started part-time status and have found several volunteer opportunities: - local faith-based hospitals - military based hospitals - airport USO lounges - free medical clinics - homeless shelters - veteran's groups - American Red Cross.
I am sure you all have similar opportunities not far from your local areas.
Joe Agostinelli, DPM, Niceville, FL
