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PM News

The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 10,600 Podiatrists Daily


January 05, 2008 #3,134 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2008- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

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NJ Podiatrist Helps Saves Limbs at Wound Center He Helped to Establish

For most people a small cut is no big deal. A little antiseptic, ointment and a Band-Aid are all that's needed. That's what Joe Urbanowski thought in June 2005 when he stepped on a small piece of glass. But the wound did not heal and a few weeks later his right foot throbbed and started to swell. Dr. William A. Freundlich, who heads the Wound Center at St. Mary's, was the third doctor to examine him. After three operations and a two-month stay in the hospital, Urbanowski's five toes and a portion of his foot were amputated.

Dr. William A. Freundlich

Urbanowski, who takes pills daily to treat his diabetes, says St. Mary's picks him up each week for the appointment with Freundlich. "He wants to save and treat my lucky right leg. The others just wanted to hack things off," says Urbanowski. Freundlich says Urbanowski is a good example of how well the center serves patients. He came in as a charity care case, the doctor says. "He dodged a major bullet two years ago. I intervened in the case and was able to save his leg," says Freundlich, who is also a podiatric surgeon.

Freundlich says about seven or eight years ago he realized there was a need for a wound center at St. Mary's, which he started with another doctor. It has grown to seven doctors and operates five days a week. There is no other facility like it in Passaic County, he said. Freundlich says the hospital has the equipment and resources, which are not available in a physician's office. Patients are treated on an inpatient and outpatient basis.

Source: Diane Haines, Herald News [1/1/08]

Game Changing….Rule Breaking

The SOS Healthcare Management

.

Consultative Practice Retreat (CPR) – Celebration, FL April 5-6 2008

The CPR Program will change the way your Practice – Guaranteed!!!!

.

The CPR program is an innovative blend of SOS’s practice consulting services and an educational weekend retreat where individual practices are analyzed, action plans are developed, and two months of post-meeting coaching is performed. Because of the unique format attendance is strictly limited to 25 attendees. Reserve your spot today! To learn more about this one of a kind program or to reserve your place click on the link below.

.

www.SOSHMS.com

(Turn your computer speakers on)


APMA NEWS

Most Uninsured Diabetic African-Americans Have Not Seen A Podiatrist: APMA Study

A recent national survey conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association found nearly ten percent of the 3.2 million African-Americans with diabetes are uninsured. Of those, 75 percent have NOT seen a podiatric physician for diabetes treatment reportedly due to no health coverage, compared to 45 percent of those with insurance who do see a podiatrist.

Dr. Christian Robertozzi

"Podiatric physicians are a critical part of a diabetes management team," said Dr. Christian Robertozzi, APMA president. "Because a person with diabetes can experience circulatory problems and even loss of sensation in the feet, it's critical that they receive proper foot care to avoid complications, such diabetic ulcers or amputations."

The study, which surveyed by phone 600 African-Americans across the country with diabetes or a family history of the disease, revealed 97 percent of those with the disease regularly visited a doctor. However, 57 percent reported they'd never seen a podiatric physician because many felt, "there is nothing wrong with my feet."

Source: WKTV (Utica, NY) [1/3/08]

Here’s what some of your colleagues are saying about their practice website:

.

“...216 new patients!” — Dr. Gary C. Mashigian, Carrollton, TX

.

“... 210 new patients!” — Dr. Franklin R. Polun, Potomac, MD

.

“... 102 new patients!” — Dr. Thomas Graziano, Clifton, NJ

.

January promotion: $1,000 OFF practice web site.

Click here for details or call Officite at 888-494-3945.


HEALTHCARE NEWS

Doctors Say Placebo Use is Common: Study

Researchers at the University of Chicago said on Thursday the study raises ethical questions and suggests a need for greater recognition and understanding of placebo use. "It illustrates that doctors believe expectation and belief have therapeutic potential," said Rachel Sherman, a medical student at the University of Chicago, whose study was published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Sherman and Dr. John Hickner, a family medicine professor at the University of Chicago, sent surveys to 466 internists at three Chicago-area academic medical centers. About half, or 231, responded. Of those, 45 percent said they had used a placebo during their clinical practice, a number that surprised the researchers. But 12 percent of those surveyed said placebos should never be used.

Sherman said the practice brings up ethical issues, including whether a doctor has an obligation to provide patients with informed consent. Of respondents who reported using a placebo in clinical practice, 34 percent said they told the patients the substance was something that "may help and will not hurt." About a third gave other information to patients including, "this may help you but I am not sure how it works." Nineteen percent said it was a "medication," and 9 percent called it "a medicine with no specific effect." Only 4 percent of the doctors said, "it is a placebo."

Part of the reason doctors are not forthcoming about giving a placebo is that in order for it to work, patients need to believe it can help, Sherman said. One way around this dilemma is to ask all new patients for their consent in advance. "The patient could say no. Then you avoid any of these ethical questions," Sherman said.

Source: Julie Steenhuysen, Reuters [1/3/08]

MEETINGS / COURSES

New York Podiatric Clinical Conference & Exhibition

January 25 - 27, 2008
New York Marriott Marquis, New York, NY

For program and registration details go to: www.nyspma.org. Registration questions? Call ExpoTrac at 1-877-397-6872.

Hotel reservations can be made when you register online or you can call the Marriott Marquis at 1-800-843-4898.


Codingline-NYSPMA "Strictly Coding*" Seminar
Seminar Sponsor: ICS Software (The Sammy Systems)

January 24, 2008 ("The day before the NY Clinical Conference") - Marriott Marquis

Topics: Medicare & CPT 2008 Update - The Medicare Carrier Shuffle & What It Means to You - DME Update - How in the World Do I Code This? - Modifiers Continued - Legally Yours: What if... - Coding Controversies - - Q&As

Speakers: Barry Block, DPM, JD (Sponsored by Doak Dermatologics); Harry Goldsmith, DPM; Mark Schilansky, DPM (Sponsored by Organogenesis); and Paul Kesselman, DPM (Sponsored by NaturalStep; Advanced Biohealing).

8.0 PMAC CEUs and prior approval of the American Academy of Professional Coders for 7.5 CEUs have been obtained. Click on www.codingline.com/events-ny.htm for details and registration information.


For a list of all meetings go to: www.podiatrym.com/meetings.pdf


QUERIES (NON-CLINICAL)

Query: Assisting Non-Podiatric Surgeons

I practice in a surgical group with an orthopedic surgeon and a general surgeon at a small rural hospital. We have discussed the possibility of me assisting the other surgeons from time to time, if they need an extra hand and if I am available. We checked with the state regulations and couldn't find anything on DPMs assisting in surgery. I assisted with non-podiatry surgeries in residency, and I don't see why there would be restrictions now that I'm not a resident. Does anyone have any experience with this?

Jared Clifford, DPM Prosser, WA

Editor’s Note: PM News does not provide legal advice. This is an issue which varies from state to state. Therefore, one should initially contact the APMA state component, the state licensing agency or a healthcare attorney. Additionally, one should check with his/her malpractice carrier. A final step would be to check with any insurance carrier to determine in advance if you would be eligible for reimbursement.

PM News welcomes comments from podiatrists who have experience assisting non-podiatric surgeons.

PEDALIGN: SUPERIOR ORTHOTICS BY DIGITAL CASTING

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“With PedAlign we have seen no appreciable difference between the "new" digital casting and the "old" plaster casting as far as the quality, fit, and function of orthotics. I have made new digital orthoses for many of my patients that had previous plaster cast orthoses and they like their new orthoses much more.”

Marc G. Mittleman, DPM, Torrance, CA,

PedAlign: the most sophisticated digital prescription interface to an orthotics lab ever created. Don’t compromise: Modernize: Rent PedAlign today – call us at: www.pedalign.com; 866-733-2544, info@pedalign.com


CODINGLINE CORNER

Query: Diabetic Shoe Program Qualifier

Is a Type-1 diabetic with definitive neuropathy bilaterally, but no structural deformity and/or no callus formation entitled to a pair of shoes through the Medicare diabetic shoe program?

Bob Kornfeld, DPM, Lake Success, NY

Response: The decision is not yours. Officially, the determination is up to the physician treating the patient's diabetes.

That doctor has to certify that his/her patient has diabetes, and has diabetes, and

a) history of partial or complete amputation of the foot; or
b) history of previous foot ulceration; or
c) history of pre-ulcerative callus; or
d) peripheral neuropathy with evidence of callus formation; or
e) a foot deformity; or
f) poor circulation.

If the MD/DO physician signs off on the diabetes and checks-off one of the medical conditions, with your prescription the therapeutic shoes and insoles you feel best serves the patient can be filled. If the MD/DO treating the patient's diabetes does agree or feel the patient qualifies, the therapeutic diabetic shoe program will not reimburse the shoes/inserts. Simple enough.

Remember, based on the criteria above, it's the MD/DO's decision to certify the need based on their interpretation of the verbiage given to them by CMS. This is unlike qualifying certain systemic conditions for routine foot care.

Paul Kinberg, DPM, Dallas, TX

Ed. Note: Dr. Kinberg will be on the faculty at the 2008 Hawaii Coding and Practice Management Workshop (July 28-31) www.podiatrym.com/hawaii

Codingline subscription information can be found at:
http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm

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RESPONSES / COMMENTS (CLINICAL) ACTIVE

RE: Honey Dressings Can Prevent MRSA Infections
From: Larry Aronberg, DPM

Around 25 years ago, there was an excellent article in the Journal of Southern Medicine by an MD using a mixture of Betadine solution, Betadine ointment and sugar. It's a bit messy, but it does actually seem to work well.

Larry Aronberg, DPM, Lake Worth, FL, lwp01@bellsouth.net

SafeStep End of Year / Beginning of Year Special

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Ships in case of 12.

To order, click “Impression Foam Special $2.70”
Then click anywhere on page to print up fax order form.

Enter discount code “FM735.” Offer expires January 15, 2008.

www.safestep.net
866.712.STEP


YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP

RE: Recycled DME

Ever wonder what your patients do with DME supplies? A new patient complained of heel pain. Upon evaluation, the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis was made. I explained the treatment plan, and mentioned we would be supplying a dorsal night splint. When my assistant began to fit the patient for the splint, the patient stated she already had one. I was called to the room, and I asked where she got the splint. The reply was: I got it for $3.00 at a thrift store!

Peter M Mason, DPM, Largo, FL

PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME

You can Earn 30 CPME-Approved CME Contact Hours Online
Earn 15 Contact Hours for only $139
(Less than $14 per credit)
http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm
Choose any or ALL (30 CME Contact Hours) from the 20 CME articles posted
You Can Now Take Tests and Print Your CME Certificates Online

CLASSIFIED ADS

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTH CAROLINA

Upstate SC practice of 25 years. Retiring. High volume, high grossing. 60% routine foot care, 40% surgery. Several nursing homes. Plenty of opportunity for growth. Hospital and Surgery Center privileges. Financials available upon request. Serious inquiries only! Beautiful area. Contact: Carolinafootdoctor@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE WANTED – NEW YORK IMMEDIATE OPENING

Busy multi-dimensional practice; 70 miles north of New York City . Currently five (5)-doctor practice. looking to expand – all phases of podiatric medicine. contact: (845) 454-8308 EXT: 106

ASSOCIATE POSITION- KANSAS CITY, MO

Excellent opportunity for a hard working, ethical podiatrist to join a vibrant, successful and growing podiatric medical and surgical practice. Dedicated, supportive staff with strong marketing and medical knowledge. Must be board eligible/certified. PSR/24. Partnership opportunity. Competitive salary, bonus structure, benefits. Wonderful place to raise a family. Fax CV to 816-455-8901

ALTERNATIVE PATHWAY TO BOARD CERTIFICATION PETITION

I am seeking to gather the names of my fellow podiatrists who are being denied the opportunity to sit for the board certification exams and would like to join my efforts to petition our leadership for a fair alternative within the system. To join this effort, please email your name and contact information
podiatrydoc@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE-TO-PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY NEW HAMPSHIRE

Established practice located 1 hour north of Boston in tax-free New Hampshire is seeking a well-trained graduate of a 24-month surgical/general podiatry residency. This is a practice with a nice mix of surgery, biomechanics, injuries, diabetic and general care. No nursing homes. Very modern office with EMR, US, excellent referral base, and a well-trained staff. E-mail inquiries howardbon@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHANDLER/GILBERT/PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Multi-location office and soon to open a third location. Seeking a well-trained graduate of a PSR 24+/36 Residency. This is a practice with a nice mix of 35% surgery/trauma, 20% diabetic/wounds, 25% biomechanics, 20% pediatric. No nursing homes. ER Call for 2 hospitals. Opportunity for partnership at 2 surgery centers. Very modern office with EMR, U/S, Digital X-Ray, ESWT, Vascular Testing Machine. Excellent referral base, and a well-trained certified staff. Board eligible/certified a plus. Competitive salary, bonus structure, benefits. Please e-mail CV and references to main@footanklespecialtycenters.com or FAX to 480-782-1290.

FOR RENT AND IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY ARIZONA

Excellent free-standing location and exposure in Sun City, AZ. Across
from Boswell Hospital. Has been a podiatric office for 15 years with an approved Medicare SurgiCenter w/in the office. Office is a turn-key facility and can include present equipment. 3750 sq ft with 9 tx rooms, large reception and BO area. Email
tbirdpod@cox.net or 602-510-2871.

ASSOCIATION POSITION - IOWA

Associate position with potential partnership in a multi-office,
multi-faceted practice, four-physician office. Staff privileges in many hospitals and ASCs. Applicant needs to be personable, skilled, ethical and hard-working. Competitive base and incentive compensation and benefits. Fax CV and letter to 712-255-1389.

PODIATRISTS NEEDED - CHICAGO --NORTHWEST INDIANA

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists. We are located in Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Full and part time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com -- www.homephysicians.com


WEEKLY SPECIAL - One week of ads (5x) for only $85

PM Classified Ads Reach over 10,000 DPM's and Students

Whether you have used equipment to sell or our offering an associate position, PM News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 10,000 DPM's. Write bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 Ext 110.

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.
Guidelines
  • To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
  • Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
  • Notes must be in the following form:
    RE: (Topic)
    From: (your name, DPM)
    Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
    Your name, DPM City/State
  • Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.

Barry H. Block, DPM, JD
 
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