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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 17,246 Subscribers Daily
January 14, 2016 #5,577  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2016- 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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Should Dr. Scholl's be allowed to advertise "custom-fit orthotics"? |
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| APMA COMPONENT NEWS | |
APMWA Announces 30th Annual Student Writing Competition
The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 30th Annual Student Writing Competition.
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All papers MUST be non-technical in nature. Appropriate subjects include practice management, ethics, law, education, or any topic that would be suitable for a lay publication.
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There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
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First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000), sponsored by an APMA Educational Foundation endowment from Dr. and Mrs. Steven Berlin, and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
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This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
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Entries must be received by 4/1/16 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
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Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry.
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
MO Podiatrist Joins New Practice
Randy Aaranson, DPM, recently moved his podiatry practice to Deer Creek Footcare located in O’Fallon, MO. Dr. Aaranson provides comprehensive care and surgery of the foot and ankle, as well as specializes in diabetic foot and wound care.
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Dr. Randy Aaranson |
Dr. Aaranson has been a practicing podiatrist for more than 25 years. Prior to moving his practice, he worked at an O’Fallon hospital group for six years. He also continues to practice podiatry at Orthopedic Associates in Des Peres, MO. Dr. Aaranson is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He also is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is an attending physician in the St. Louis region, teaching surgical residents.
Source: Chesterfield Patch [1/11/16]
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| IN THE COURTS | |
UnitedHealth Beats Podiatric Lawsuit Seeking Surgical Fees
UnitedHealth Group Inc. defeated a proposed class action by an out-of-network surgical facility that accused the insurer of failing to pay certain fees incurred by UnitedHealth-insured patients (Podiatric OR of Midtown Manhattan, P.C. v. UnitedHealth Grp., Inc., 2016 BL 6678, D. Minn., No. 0:15-cv-03234-DSD-HB, 1/11/16). In dismissing the lawsuit, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota found that the surgical facility never challenged the fee denial through UnitedHealth's internal appeals process.
According to the court, an internal appeal isn't futile when an insurer specifically “invites appeal of its decision,” like UnitedHealth did here. Despite ordering the facility to file an internal appeal before bringing litigation, the court nevertheless determined that the facility had standing to bring an Employee Retirement Income Security Act lawsuit.
Source: Jacklyn Wille, Bloomberg Law [1/13/16]
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| DIABETES RESEARCH | |
HBOT Does Not Reduce Indications for Amputation in Non-healing Diabetic Ulcers
Patients with diabetes and foot lesions (Wagner grade 2-4) of at least 4 weeks duration participated in this study. In addition to comprehensive wound care, participants were randomly assigned to receive 30 daily sessions of 90 min of HBOT (breathing oxygen at 244 kPa) or sham (breathing air at 125 kPa). Patients, physicians, and researchers were blinded to group assignments. At 12 weeks post-randomization, the primary outcome was freedom from meeting the criteria for amputation as assessed by a vascular surgeon. Secondary outcomes were measures of wound healing.
Results and Conclusions: One hundred fifty-seven patients were assessed for eligibility, with 107 randomly assigned and 103 available for end point adjudication. Twelve (22%) patients in the sham group and 10 (20%) in the HBOT group were healed (0.90 [0.35, 2.31], P = 0.823). All other indices of wound healing were also not statistically significantly different between groups. HBOT does not offer an additional advantage to comprehensive wound care in reducing the indication for amputation or facilitating wound healing in patients with chronic DFUs.
Source: Fedorko L, et al. Diabetes Care 2016 via PubMed via Dr. Allen Jacobs
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| HEALTHCARE NEWS | |
More Docs Are OK With ACOs
Providers are more and more willing to participate in value-based care programs, according to a Dec. 9 roundtable of Blues plan executives at the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) in Washington, DC. While a “spectrum” of physician engagement still exists, one executive said he never thought he would see the day when so many doctors and insurers were actually excited about collaborating on accountable care.
In October, BCBSA unveiled Blue Distinction Total Care, a nationwide network of accountable care programs for national employer clients, comprising 450 programs in 37 states. When insurers were attempting to launch the first accountable care organizations, some doctors were receptive to collaborating with insurers, while others weren’t. That dynamic still holds true today, but the tables are quickly turning.
Source: Jane Anderson, AIS Health [January 2016]
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| QUERIES (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
Query: Waiver of Co-Pays (Joseph Borreggine, DPM)
CMS says we have to make an attempt to collect 20% co-pay, but New York State Medicaid has said they will not pay anything if the Medicare payment is higher than the Medicaid fee. It used to be that they would pay the 20% but then they changed it to 20% of the 20%. Now it is nothing because Medicaid fees have not changed in 30 years. So are we supposed to ask our Medicaid patients to pay for their Medicare co-pay.
Ron Werter, DPM, New York, NY
Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. According to the latest New York State Medicaid Update (February 2014), providers cannot bill a Medicaid patient directly.
Providers can bill Medicaid, but only after Medicare has been billed and services approved, but a deductible or co-payment is not met. There are many categories that qualify for co-pay exemptions including: Recipients under the age of 21, residents of a nursing home, and many other classifications.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
From: Benjamin J. Wallner
APMA would like to thank Dr. Meltzer for bringing H.R. 3016 to the attention of the profession and clarify a few points. All individuals have a right to express their personal opinions regarding political and/or policy issues. Government employees—including VA-employed podiatrists—may lobby Congress directly as long they clarify it is being done in a personal capacity rather than representing their agency. APMA has created a document summarizing the guidelines for lobbying for federal employees.
If contacting a member of Congress by e-mail, use a personal address rather than a .gov address. APMA eAdvocacy (apmaeadvocacy.org) offers a variety of ways to quickly and efficiently contact your elected officials about the issues that are important to you, including H.R. 3016. You may also contribute to a PAC as long as it is done in a personal capacity.
APMA encourages all podiatrists to reach out to their elected officials and encourage them to support H.R. 3016. Grassroots advocacy is the key to moving legislation forward, and the collective voice of 15,000 podiatrists cannot be ignored.
Benjamin J. Wallner, Director APMA Political Action Committee and Assistant Director, Legislative Advocacy
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM NEWS QUICK POLLS) | |
From: Steven Kaniadakis, DPM
First, it is "orthotic devices", not "orthotics." This in itself suggests something.
In any event, podiatrists should not be perceived as stooping low enough to have to lobby against this matter. I get the sensitivity and I feel your pain. However, think about the ways the public might feel about podiatrists spearheading this movement.
Steven Kaniadakis, DPM, St. Petersburg, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CODINGLINE CORNER) | |
From: Sarah Whittaker, DPM
As the MN CAC Representative, both I and my Clinic Administrator have been actively involved in numerous conversations with the other APMA CAC Reps regarding the confusion of converting from ICD-9 to ICD-10 and how NGS (our jurisdiction 6 MAC carrier) has applied those changes to their LCDs indicating medical necessity.
Shortly after the release date of 10/01/15, we all agreed that a letter needed to be drafted to NGS noting that some converted ICD-10 codes were missing in the Routine Care LCD posted. NGS was very accommodating to this feedback and asked for a list of the codes missing, stating they would be happy to update the missing...
Editor's notes: Dr. Whittaker's extended-length letter can be read here.
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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Perfect boot for a "vein" person? |
Source: Eelko Moorer via Virtual Shoe Museum
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MEETING NOTICES
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NEED CME CREDITS FAST?
PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn up to 50 CPME-Approved CME Contact Hours Online
Earn 15 Contact Hours only $210
(Only $14 per credit) http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm
All required credits can be taken online for AL, AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MI, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OH, OR, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, WV, WI, & WY
Partial required credits can be taken online for AZ, CT, FL, GA, ID, KY, IL, IA, MO, MT, NE, NH, NY, NC, OK, PA, PR, TN, TX, VT, WA, and DC
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 – ILLINOIS
Carle Physician Group with over 400 physicians in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois is seeking an additional office-based, non-surgical BE/BC Podiatrist to join our 15 member Orthopaedic Department; employed model, Monday through Friday practice with no call; large built-in referral network; Big 10 University city; email CV to Karen.uden@carle.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Very busy practice seeking a full-time, self-motivated and hard-working podiatry associate. Competitive salary offered. Please email CV to: podiatrists@icloud.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN PHILADELPHIA SUBURBS
Multi doctor group has an associate position available to join our busy practice. Candidate must have a minimum PMSR/36 with RRA training. Our practice is extremely diversified with all aspects of podiatry including wound care. If you are well trained, outgoing, personable and would like to join our team, please e-mail a cover letter and your cv to joinourgroup2016@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - CALIFORNIA
Busy three office practice in Santa Cruz County, California seeking new associate. Must be BQ or BC. Full scope of patient care. Competitive salary, and health insurance. Come join us on the beautiful California coast. Please forward cover letter and CV to skyandellie@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO
Well-established group practice in Ohio seeks a well-trained surgeon, PSR24/36. Our practice provides all of the latest technology needed to provide patients with the best care, including ultrasound, lasers, PAD testing, DME, EMR and digital x-ray. Competitive compensation package including salary base $120,000 and bonus. Please send CV to: DPMgroup1@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS - DALLAS SUBURBS
Seeking well rounded individual to join our well established, modern practice. Surgery, orthopedics, wound care, primary care and sports medicine. Very competitive salary with bonus structure and benefits. Early partnership opportunity for the right person. This is a rare opportunity. Please send letter of interest and CV to: Podiatrysbest@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
Established practice seeking ethical, skilled, hard working associate in summer 2016. Must be BQ(or BC) ABFAS and 3 year residency trained. Competitive salary and benefits with bonus and early partnership opportunities. Should have strong interest in advanced wound care. Great location and community. Forward cover letter and CV to: scsoledocs@gmail.com.
IMMEDIATE ASSOCIATE POSITION - INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA
Available in busy three office practice Leading to Partnership. Position available for graduate in 2016. Two locations in Indianapolis and 1 location outside of Metro area. Competitive salary and benefit package including 401, profit sharing, Health insurance. Surgery Center Ownership Available If interested forward letter and resume to Imalament1@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK CITY / NEW JERSEY
Highly ethical and motivated practitioner sought. Experienced, assertive, podiatric surgeon wanted. All aspects of forefoot, rearfoot, and ankle surgery. Board qualified or certified. Please send C.V. tobunioncenter135@yahoo.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE - FULL TIME/ PART TIME WISCONSIN
Opportunities to serve residents of long-term care facilities in Madison and Eau Claire areas of Wisconsin. High earning potential with competitive benefits as part of a 40 year old company for the right candidates. Contact ckestner@preferredpodiatry.com for additional information.
FELLOWSHIP – DIABETIC FOOT & WOUND (TEXAS)
One position for a 12-month TMB-approved Diabetic Foot and Wound fellowship beginning July 1, 2016. Candidate must have completed a podiatric residency/plastic surgical residency/general surgery residency and be eligible for Texas Medical License. Training involves all aspect of diabetic foot management. Curriculum focuses on surgical limb salvage, and medical management of the complex wound patient. Interested candidates should email their CV, personal statement and 3 letters of recommendation to latonya.rosales@utsouthwestern.edu. UT Southwestern is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
LIMB SALVAGE FELLOWSHIP – UCSF -SAN FRANCISCO
UCSF is currently accepting applications for its 12 month Limb Salvage fellowship beginning July 1, 2016. The Fellowship focuses on Research and advanced techniques in limb salvage. The fellow will receive: $60,000 salary and benefits with at least 1 fully funded conference to attend. Please submit a Letter of interest, CV, and 3 Letters of recommendation to: Alex Reyzelman, DPM, at alexander.reyzelman@ucsf.edu.
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@prodigy.net 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 |
PRACTICE FOR SALE - BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
Have you ever dreamed of owning a practice where you can see 0-50 patients daily, average 100 new patients monthly, have zero accounts receivable, gross $440K per year, live in a beautiful community with skiing, hiking, fishing and boating on your doorstep? Contact pistone@telus.net or call 250-754-4192.
PRACTICE FOR SALE – PENNSYLVANIA
Great opportunity for a new practitioner to step into a busy group practice with one doctor retiring. Practice is well established with a good mix of RFC, rearfoot and forefoot surgery, wound care, and diabetic foot care. Full EHR implementation. Practice is in a medical office building with many specialties providing an excellent referral base. Great small town to work in and raise a family. Approx 45 minutes to Baltimore Owner willing to finance and stay during transition. Contact: papodiatry616@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE – CENTRAL FLORIDA
Practice available in a small town in Central Florida. Podiatrist retiring. Was full 4 day practice but now 2 days due to illness. Easily expanded. Same location over 30 years. Surgical and hospital privileges available but not required. Purchase equipment and assume patient care . Send inquiries to: DDave9388@aol.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@prodigy.net 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.
| | 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
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- Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.
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