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January 19, 2008 #3,145 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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LaRose Re-Appointed to CA State Board

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Monday appointed James LaRose, 61, a Claremont resident, to the board of Podiatric Medicine. La Rose has a private practice in Upland.

Dr. James LaRose

Dr. LaRose is OBGYN Department Chairman at Montclair Hospital Medical Center and a member of the Governing Board and Medical Executive Committee.

Source: San Bernardino County Sun (CA) [1/17/08]

OCPM Student Making a Difference in Iraq

Andrea Sokolowski, 24, of Harrison have provided administrative support in Iraq. More than 22,000 reserves are overseas. An additional 10,000 serve active domestic tours. Sokolowski is a member of the Coraopolis-based 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, which Brig. Gen. Gregory E. Couch commands from Anaconda. Among other responsibilities, the 316th supplies ammunition, food and fuel as well as trains Iraq's security forces.

Staff Sgt. Andrea Sokolowski, (from left) Col. Jack Skelly and Staff Sgt. Rashad Colvin Steven Adams/Tribune-Review

Increasing death and casualty counts and quicker redeployments to war zones haven't dampened Sokolowski's enthusiasm for the Reserve. Nor did the wounds suffered by her brother, Matt, a military policeman, when a roadside bomb in Iraq exploded in July. "That made me realize how special the military really is," she said. Her brother continues to recover from shrapnel wounds. "We're a big family. Everyone is each other's family more than any job out there could possibly be."

Sokolowski's tour involves doing civilian payroll for the 316th in Coraopolis. She works there 40 hours a week and waits tables in a restaurant several nights a week. Sokolowski was in her first month at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland when she was called for her 12-month tour at Camp Anaconda in 2005-06. "My focus changed in Iraq," she said. "Over there, you realize your job really makes a difference. It's hard to explain, I guess."

Source: Mike Cronin, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review [1/18/08]

Stimulus Package Could Boost Medicaid Payments

An economic stimulus package being framed by White House advisers and congressional leaders could include a provision to temporarily increase Medicaid payments to states as a way to cover a potential boost in enrollment brought on by a sluggish economy.

House members discussed including a provision that would be similar to one passed in 2003 that led to a 1.5% increase in state Medicaid payments, according to congressional aides. Medicaid typically sees a spike in enrollment during deep economic downturns because more people lose their jobs and their health coverage.

An increase this year could cost billions of dollars, according to published reports, but would not need to be offset from other programs because Democratic leaders said they would likely waive "pay go" budget rules to more quickly approve a package. Still, such a proposal could meet with resistance from Bush administration officials. On Wednesday, HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt told reporters that he does not support an increase in the federal matching rate under Medicaid as an economic engine.

Source: Matthew DoBias, Modern Healthcare [1/18/08]

Query: Resistant Verruca

I have a 13 yo patient that has warts on the bottom of her right great toe. She has tried OTC topical medication, freezing the warts, Carac, and cutting the warts out twice under local anesthesia. They continue to return and are painful. Does anyone have any suggestions for other treatment to remove them permanently. I have thought about using Tagamet, but have not found it to be extremely effective. I do not live near a teaching facility, so laser treatment is not an option. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Richard Burnell, DPM, Camden, SC

Query: Coding Tendon Repair

How would you code a repair of a ruptured anterior tibial tendon with the use of a synthetic graft (Pegasus), anchoring it to the medial cuneiform with a Mitek anchor?

Mark Schilansky, DPM, Catskill, NY

Response: If the repair occurs at the level of the foot (rather than the leg), I would code the procedure as CPT 28210 (repair, tendon, extensor, foot; secondary with free graft, each tendon [includes obtaining graft]).

The use of a soft tissue anchor into the medial cuneiform would be a component of the repair, and not billed separately.

Howard Zlotoff, DPM, Camp Hill, PA

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

RE: Functional Compartment Syndrome? (Peter Smith, DPM)
From: Amy Schunemeyer-Purdy, DPM

I've seen this in both pediatrics and adults. If the pain/numbness is in the legs, possibly a popliteal inlet syndrome, can be addressed endoscopically; if only in the foot chronic compartment syndrome vs functional tarsal tunnel syndrome. To check compartment pressures try your local ER or orthopedist who does a fair amount of sports medicine, or a physiatrist that deals with work related injuries. Ask them to have the patient perform whatever it is that makes them hurt, then take the pressures. I also check NCV's and have them perform these "functionally." I personally called the local neurologist in our area and discussed what i wanted. I instructed him the use a blood pressure cuff to occlude venous outflow, then perform studies. They now do this for me regularly. He also called me back a few months later and told me he uses this technique regularly and thanked me for the concept (Great way to receive referrals!).

Amy Schunemeyer-Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA, apodiatrist@mindspring.com

RE: Office Attire (Alan Mauser DPM)
From: Simon Young DPM, Joe Agostinelli, DPM

Recent news releases of studies indicate that patients like a well-groomed doctor, but the emphasis needs to be on infection control. Ties do contribute to cross-contamination. Greens are probably the best path for infection control, but society needs to change.

Simon Young DPM, NYC, NY, simonyoung@juno.com

I also think that where your practice is located and your patient mix matters. In my situation with a large orthopedic group near the Gulf of Mexico, the only doctor that wears a coat and tie is our oldest and has been practicing over 40 years. The rest wear combinations of scrubs/white coats/golf shirts -more of a business casual-type attire.

On a personal note of levity, after 23 years in the USAF, where you have to have your haircut once per month to be within regulations, I decided to not have my hair cut for one and one half years. Two new patients never returned to the clinic during that period, after their initial visit after informing the reception desk that the "hair on the foot doctor was too long.” And these were prior retired military patients who were used to the "high and tight" hair cuts! I also remember podiatric meetings where every male attendee had a coat/suit/tie for all of the lectures . Now take a look at what attendees are wearing. The" attire - in- the-doctor's- office " issue is just a reflection of everyday life.

Joe Agostinelli, DPM, Niceville, FL, jmpa21@cox.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY

Excellent opportunity for foot/ankle surgeon, Manhattan and Brooklyn Associate position leading to possible partnership. Requirements: Two years enrollment in a surgical residency program Qualities of self-motivation and impeccable skills in forefoot and rear-foot surgery. Package Includes: Malpractice insurance, Health Insurance plus salary, Incentives. Terms negotiable Email CV to Manfootcare@aol.com 212-349-7676

SEEKING ASSOCIATE WITH POTENTIAL TO FULL PARTNER

Busy multi-physician podiatric group with 2 locations seeking BQ/BC surgically trained doctor. Applicant should be well-trained in all aspects of surgical and conservative care. Seeking ethical, hard working and outgoing physician to join our 4-hysician group. Excellent quality of life in suburban Houston, near NASA and the Gulf of Mexico. Email CV and cover letter to Dr. M. Rockett at Mrockettman@comcast.net.

INTERVIEWING AT NEW YORK CONFERENCE: JAN 25-26TH

Looking for well-trained (PSR- 24/36) personable, energetic practitioner to join multi-office practice in the beautiful Hudson Valley. Well-rounded practice including general podiatry, high volume orthotics, and reconstructive surgery. Outstanding opportunity to work into partnership. Competitive starting salary, bonus incentives, benefits, and pension. Submit: CV, letter of intent and references to: footassociate@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW JERSEY

Established practice in Ocean County seeks hardworking, ethical, energetic and well-trained (PSR 24/36) individual. Practice provides EMR, digital x-rays, ultra-sound and NCV’s. Must be willing to do all aspects of podiatry! Competitive salary and benefits package. E-mail CV to NJFeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE/BUYER WANTED – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Unique & rare opportunity for a Japanese-bilingual podiatrist. Seeking motivated, conscientious, and ethical individual with excellent people skills for associate leading to ownership or a buyer for immediate purchase. No nursing homes & well-established referral base. Serious inquiries only. E-mail letter of introduction, photo and CV to: socaldpm@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION- CONNECTICUT

Established Practice looking for PSR 24/36 trained surgeon. Must have experience and be responsible for all surgical cases for the
practice. EMR and digital x-ray in new 6-treatment room office.
Hospital privileges available. Connecticut has a new ankle law for the
Properly-trained DPM. Competitive salary, benefits, and bonus. Great area to raise a family. Fax resume to 860 243-5790

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

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

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 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

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA

Must have Virginia license. Requires 24 to 36 month Residency. Permanent position with potential buy in. Includes all phases of Practice excluding nursing homes. Competitive Salary and Benefit package. Please send Resume including salary requirements and availability date to needpodjob@yahoo.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - PHILADELPHIA, PA

Six year-old well established practice averaging 300K over the past three years. Suitable for surgical podiatrist. Large referral base and surgical care. I am looking to relocate. I will stay during transitional period. Excellent Philadelphia location. Practice is still growing, allowing instant and increasing income. Hospital and Surgical Center privileges. Equipment included. Fax 215-665-9242 for details

40 year old part time practice for sale. Priced for quick sale. Please contact me at footdoc60@gmail.com. Serious inquires only, please

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