The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

January 19, 2013 #4,669 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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HI Podiatrist Receives Patent for Spring Orthotic Device

Dr. Steven King of Kihei, HI and Paul Hewitt, a mechanical engineer from Sacramento, CA have been granted U.S. Patent # 8,353,968 for the "Spring Orthotic Device."

Dr. Steven King

According to the patent, the invention is, "a spring orthotic device comprising of a cradle for contacting the foot of the user, a spring plate underneath the cradle, a ventral pivot beneath the spring plate, and a dorsal pivot above the spring plate and below the cradle, located proximally of the ventral pivot."

NY Podiatrist Recognized for Prolific Writing

Wycoff Heights Medical Center (WHMC) recently recognized Tahir Khan, DPM for his outstanding achievements in writing and clinical research.

Dr. Tamir Khan

Khan, a second-year resident submitted ten articles in 2012, and three of them have already been published. Dr. Ronald Guberman, podiatric residency director at WHMC said, "Dr. Khan has a talent for writing, and we congratulate him for using his talent for the advancement of scientific knowledge and for the benefit of our profession."

Amputations in Diabetics Can Be Reduced by 50%: Study

A new study at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, confirms that shoe inserts, podiatry, regular check-ups, and other simple interventions can reduce the number of amputations by more than 50%.
 
The study of 114 Swedish patients with diabetes at risk of developing such ulcers also revealed that only 67% of diabetes patients had been offered podiatry despite the fact that 83% had calluses.

Source: Annika Koldenius, Innovations Report [1/17/13]

HHS Issues Long-Awaited Update to the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules

HHS in its long-awaited privacy rule released today expanded liability of business associates of hospitals, physicians, and other HIPAA-covered entities if they release data in ways that violate patient privacy. Called the “omnibus” privacy and security rule because of its broad reach, it updates earlier Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act rules with more stringent privacy and security measures passed under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The rule clarifies when breaches of information must be reported to the Office for Civil Rights, sets new rules on the use of patient-identifiable information for marketing and fundraising, and expands direct liability under the law to the so-called “business associates” of hospitals and physicians and other “HIPAA-covered entities.”

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [1/17/13]

Fix Too Late for Some Docs to get Full EHR Pay

The CMS will fix a systems glitch and allow physicians and other professionals working with critical-access hospitals to participate in the federal electronic health-record incentive payment program, but apparently not in time for these EHR users to get paid top dollar under the Medicare portion of the program, according to an agency announcement.

A CMS fact sheet on the agency's website says “due to the time required to implement system changes,” it won't accept attestations from critical-access hospitals on behalf of these physicians and other professionals until January 2014.

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [1/17/13]

Query: Excision of Recurrent Supernumary Ossicle

What are the best ICD-9 and CPT codes for excision of a recurrent/residual supernumery 5th toe? The 6th toe was resected during infancy. X-rays, however, show a large, well-defined ossicle adjacent to the lateral aspect of the 5th metatarsal head. Clinically, there is a painful prominence laterally, similar to a bunionette deformity.

Donald Brann, DPM, Orland Park, IL

Response: This requires you to make one of two decisions based on your question:

1) If this is congenital, then the diagnosis is ICD-9 755.02 (polydactyly - supernumerary digits - toes). The removal of this extra bone could be coded as CPT 28124 - partial excision (craterization, saucerization, sequestrectomy, or diaphysectomy) bone (e.g., osteomyelitis or bossing); phalanx of toe.

2) If this is extra-osseous bone lateral to the 5th metatarsal, then the ICD-9 code is ICD-9 754.70 (congenital deformity of foot NOS) or ICD-9 736.70 (unspecified deformity of ankle and foot, acquired). The procedure code, if this is associated with the metatarsal, is CPT 28122 - partial excision (craterization, saucerization, sequestrectomy, or diaphysectomy) bone (e.g., osteomyelitis or bossing); tarsal or metatarsal bone, except talus or calcaneus.

Based on your description, it can't be a toe and a metatarsal deformity at the same time; it has to be one or the other. Pick the right one and go with it.

David J. Freedman, DPM, CPC, Silver Spring, MD

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RE: Elongated Halluces (Robert Chelin, DPM)
From: Rotem Ben-Ad, DPM

We had an almost identical case in our residency program (Attending: Michael Theodoulou, DPM). Fourteen year-old identical twin sisters presented with bilateral elongation of the 1st metatarsal and proximal phalanx. We performed a cylindrical wedge osteotomy of the proximal phalanx measuring approximately 8mm, and a sagittal Z shortening osteotomy of the 1st metatarsal with removal of 10mm.

Pre- and Post-op X-Rays

The phalanx was fixated with a locking T plate, while the metatarsal osteotomy was fixated with two 2.7 compression screws. Patients are s/p 13 months on the right and 16 months on the left. Both patients are doing exceedingly well.

Rotem Ben-Ad, PGY3. Cambridge, MA, rben-ad@challiance.org

RE: The Clinical Skills Pilot Exam
From: Charles Lombardi, DPM

We all talk about educational equality and Vision 2015. Are we all willing to sacrifice for it? If I were a podiatry student today, would I take the pilot exam? You bet I would, because I know it is a stepping stone to equality. We would be the third profession to mandate such an exam behind allopathic and osteopathic medicine. Would it benefit me? Yes, by knowing that I contributed to the advancement of the profession that I will be practicing for decades to come.

In order to advance, YOU must sacrifice. This is not about winning an iPad or getting a paid trip. It is one of the most important things YOU can do for our profession. There are no substitutes for current 4th year students. Only YOU, a fourth year student, can show that the exam is valid. Please sign up and advance your profession.

Charles Lombardi, DPM, President, NBPME, ChazDPM@aol.com

RE: A Disturbing Incident (Mark Stempler, DPM)
From: Janet McCormick, MS

Nail technicians (NTs) are licensed to use electric files (many podiatrists call them "drills"), though some states require a certification course. But NTs CANNOT work on anyone with evidence of any infection. And they certainly cannot cause bleeding. They can only reduce the thickness of a nail if there is no infection (Many podiatrists send their laser patients to nail technicians to have prosthetic toenails applied, but legally they must certify there is no infection.) BTW, NTs are licensed to trim nails and reduce calluses also, but they are not licensed to use blades.

Nail technicians are only licensed to perform...

Editor's note: Ms. McCormick's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Medical School Admission (Brian Kiel, DPM)
From: Daniel Grapel, DPM

Unfortunately, Dr.Brian Kriel does not want to face the truth. According to data from the American Medical Colleges, for the years 2008-2010, these ARE the facts: The average GPA for 2010 of all students was 3.53 and the average MCAT was 28.3. At the lower rate of admission MCAT 24-26 and GPA 3.2-3.39, only 12.3% of whites were admitted, 7.9% of Asians were admitted, and 66.4% of Blacks were admitted. So black applicants are more than 8 times as likely to be admitted as Asians, and more than 5 times their white counterparts.

A black applicant with average grades and below average MCAT score is more likely to be admitted to medical school -78.1%- than an Asian student with higher grades and average MCAT 73.7%. All these numbers are the truth. If you doubt that, please Google "medical school  acceptance rate." This country has been practicing reverse discrimination for over 30 years for the sins of the past. I can give you hundreds of examples.

Daniel Grapel, DPM, Bayside, NY, danipod@aol.com

TRAUMA FELLOWSHIP - FOOT & ANKLE - IOWA

Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, IA is currently accepting applications for its 12 month trauma surgery fellowship beginning August 1, 2013. The Fellowship includes advanced techniques in all foot and ankle surgery with an emphasis on lower extremity trauma, reconstruction & total joint replacement. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please submit a letter of interest, CV, and 3 letters of recommendation to: Ben Olsen, DPM, Director: Foot and Ankle Trauma Fellowship, Broadlawns Medical Center, 1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314, 515-282-7927, bolsen@broadlawns.org

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815

SPACE AVAILABLE - MANHATTAN

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY to sublet or take assignment of long-term sublet BELOW MARKET RENT!. Gorgeous, incredible location, architecturally-designed new office in prestigious 24/7 doorman building on Central Park S. 3 Tx rooms, recept, bathrm Move-in ready. See Video on Youtube search chirojil1. Dr. Goldberg at chirojil@aol.com or 646-584-7252.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED Q-CLEAR LASER

Still under warranty. New laser head just added. First Best Offer. Marketing and training included. Dr. Zuckerman will train you. e-mail with questions to mook863@comcast.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - WESTERN SUBURBS OF PHILADELPHIA
 
General practice with minimal managed care. Older routine care population mixed well with younger group of new patients. I am moving to an orthopedic practice and will no longer be doing routine care or surgery. Looking for someone to take over practice that is 3 days/week seeing 55-70 patients per week. Need sale ASAP. Please respond with interest to podpractice.2013@aol.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to: practiceforsaleswfla@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - VA (SOUTH CENTRAL)

Thirty year established practice seeking associate. PSR 24/36 training, must be highly motivated, personable, ethical and willing to provide all aspects of podiatric care. Early partnership opportunity with potential ownership. Competitive salary and benefits. Excellent opportunity for a successful career. Please send CV to footcare2020@aol.com or fax to 804 733-5946.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH/CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

PSR-24/36 trained individual for busy practice in family-friendly college town. Seeking personable, ethical, motivated individual to join our well established practice providing all aspects of podiatric care. Competitive salary and benefits package with partnership opportunity. Reply with letter, CV and photo to Jagerone@aol.com.

ASSOCIATE WANTED-WESTERN SUFFOLK COUNTY LI, NY
 
Full time, well rounded, well established Podiatry Practice. A Business Oriented, Mature Board Eligible/Board Certified Podiatrist who is not just looking for a job, but a secure future. Equity position possible. 2 Hospitals available. No Nursing Homes. Competitive package. Please fax CV to 631-581-0857

ASSOCIATE POSITION IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Part time position available immediately, leading to full-time employment, for a motivated, outgoing associate. We are a multi-office, multi-doctor practice based in Orange County and are looking for a hard working individual to treat a wide range of patients in all aspects of podiatry. PSR 24 training a must and Spanish fluency a definite advantage. Email your CV to ocpodiatryoffice@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS

Busy, well-respected practice in Western Massachusetts looking for associate and offering future partnership. New, large office offering all levels of podiatric care with state-of-the-art technology and EMR. Excellent opportunity for podiatrist who is ready to settle down or getting started. Search is confidential. Send CV/ references to tapoflife@aol.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MISSOURI – EAST CENTRAL

Podiatric medical group seeks recent graduate or 2013 graduate who is interested in working with former residency director who can enhance your already strong training Full scope practice with the cases to fast track to board certification. We are located close to St. Louis for day use. Exceptional school system in a low crime, low cost of living area. E-mail resume to: drfootski@hotmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – FENTON, MICHIGAN

Looking for a well-trained, entrepreneurial-minded podiatrist to add to a busy modern practice.(EHR, Digital x-ray, Diagnostic U.S., etc.) Looking for long term associate for growing practice. Please send CV with cover letter to Stephanie@FentonFootCare.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

Established and modern podiatry practice seeking well trained podiatrist for our two offices located in the Hudson Valley. Individuals must be highly motivated, ethical, and have PM & S-36 training. Partnership potential! Please see our recruitment video (845) 471-2243, esims@simspodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - INDIANA

Busy, successful, highly respected two doctor practice in the Indianapolis area seeks associate with opportunity for partnership. Practice has good balance of general podiatry, surgery and sports medicine. Searching for highly motivated, ethical individual.
Must be ABPS qualified/certified. Competitive salary and benefits.
Send CV to: yburchfield@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS

Established podiatric practice seeking a full-time podiatrist to take over current practice. Position is an employed hospital based position with excellent family medicine referral/support. Current practice profile does approximately 50% routine foot/ankle care, 50% surgical care, wound care and orthopedic care. Practice located in vibrant small college town in western Illinois. For further information, contact Patty Luker, CEO at 309-734-1400 or email patty.luker@osfhealthcare.org.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina's largest provider of foot care is a multi-doctor, multi-location practice currently seeking a highly skilled, personable, and hardworking physician to join our TEAM. South Carolina License is necessary. Above average salary and benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY- BUFFALO, NY

Looking for Podiatrists to see residents in several Nursing Homes in Buffalo, NY. Great opportunity for supplemental income or more. Positions available in other areas as well for the right candidate. Email inqueries to: phasetwopodiatry@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT - (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN)

Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Well-established and progressive offices, including EMR, digital x-ray, vascular and NCV studies, Pinpointe and CO2 lasers, diagnostic ultrasound and electrical stimulation therapy. You can expect a full schedule of patients the day you start, and a very competitive salary. For more info www.greatfootcare.com. Send resume to Dr.Kassaris@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 12/24 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, six figure salary, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future, this position will provide for the possibility of partnership in the future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WEST COAST FLORIDA

Outstanding opportunity for PSR-36 graduate to join successful group podiatry practice. Seeking a sociable, articulate graduate who is confident in foot and ankle surgery but also enjoys all phases of podiatry. Long-term opportunity for the right candidate with generous pay and benefits. Reply to: jwicks@cortezfootandankle.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Busy, well established practice in central Florida looking to fill an associate position leading to partnership for the right person. General and surgical podiatry, wound care. Close to attractions, short drive to beaches. Florida license necessary. Competitive pay with incentives. Please send CV to footpainbegone@Gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHWEST INDIANA

Looking for a well-trained, entrepreneurial-minded podiatrist to compliment a busy modern (EHR, Digital X-ray, Diagnostic US, etc.) practice. Highly competitive compensation package. Great area to work, live and raise a family. Send resume/CV to: Pjames@cffaac.com

RESIDENCY PROGRAM DIRECTOR - MICHIGAN

Genesys Health System in Grand Blanc, MI is seeking an exemplary leader to serve as the Program Director for the Hospital's Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency with the added Credential in Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery (PMSR). Apply online www.genesys.org.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 DPMs 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 14,000 DPMs. Write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 for a 50-word ad. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.

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