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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily
January 21, 2012 #4,364  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2012- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.
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| AT THE COLLEGES | |
Scholl Holds 25th Annual Dance for Diabetes
The Dr. William M Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science held its 25th Annual Dance for Diabetes on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at The Drake Hotel in Chicago. More than 520 students, faculty, administration, staff, and alumni were in attendance to celebrate the occasion which also kicked off the university’s centennial year.
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| Attendees at Scholl College's 25th Annual Dance for Diabetes |
The night included a reception and silent auction, dinner, live auction, and centennial presentation. The attendees were entertained by the University’s a cappella group, the Pacemakers. In all, the event raised $28,000, with approximately $21,000 benefitting the American Diabetes Association, and approximately $7,000 benefitting the RFUMS Students Dedicated to Diabetes Research and Education Initiative.
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Aussie Podiatrist Discusses Children's Shoes
Research by the Australasian Podiatry Council suggests school shoes of the wrong size are directly linked to childhood obesity, clumsiness, and back pain. "Children experiencing pain in the feet isn't normal and they won't grow out of it," Australasian Podiatry Council spokesman Brenden Brown said. Parents are being urged to shop smarter and avoid hand-me-downs; and ballet flats and canvas shoes should only be used for their intended purposes.
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Dr. Brendan Brown with his daughter (Photo: Kristi Miller) |
Mr. Brown said ill-fitting shoes were a catalyst for anything from sore feet to reluctance to exercise and irritability. He said the health significance of proper footwear was not widely known and was often overlooked. "This period in a child's life is one of the building blocks that heavily determines their future health," Mr Brown said.
Source: Philip Ly, The Daily Telegraph [1/20/12]
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| RETIRED PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
IL Podiatrist Looks Forward to Cub's New Cactus League Stadium
Chicago Cubs fans have nothing if not tradition. They certainly haven't basked in an abundance of success, with their last World Championship nearly 104 years ago. But fans interviewed on the first day of ticket sales at Mesa's Hohokam Stadium -- another important tradition -- said they are looking forward to the new Riverview Park stadium, which moves toward construction in April after the Cactus League season.
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| Dr. Charles Witt |
"It will have a little larger capacity," said Dr. Chuck Witt, a winter resident of Sun City and a retired podiatrist. "I think some of the stadiums have a little nicer amenities." Witt mentioned an improved scoreboard that would be easier to see in the sun, and a radar gun that flashes the speed of pitches on the board. He envisions a new ballpark that would be similiar to Surprise Stadium or Salt River Fields.
Source: Jim Walsh, Arizona Republic [1/19/12]
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| E-HEALTH NEWS | |
EHR Incentive Payments Doubled in Last Three Months of 2011
Total payments to hospitals through the Medicare and Medicaid electronic health-record system incentive programs more than doubled from October through December to more than $1.9 billion, according to the CMS's latest monthly report on payment and registration support. Combined payments to physicians and other so-called eligible professionals jumped 99% over the same period to nearly $570.4 million.
There were 176,049 active registrants in the programs by the end of December, up 27% since October, according to the CMS' data. Among them, 98% were eligible professionals; 2% were hospitals. About 75% of eligible professionals receiving payments—10,530 of them—are physicians, with nurse practitioners, dentists, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants accounting for the rest, according to the CMS.
Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [1/18/12]
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Achilles Tendon Problem
My patient is a 56 year old male physical education teacher with the following diagnosis on MRI (After four months of symptoms): "Chronic fusiform thickening of 5.5 cm of Achilles tendon associated with superimposed partial tear [no retraction of tendon seen] of Achilles tendon of 40% of fibers with surrounding peritedinosis and pre-calcaneal bursal fluid." The patient has no decrease in muscle strength or plantar flexory or dorsiflexory capacity. His only complaint is pain "on occasion" in certain activities. He has not scaled back activities at all and has recently returned from a hiking vacation. Opinions on treatment options would be greatly appreciated.
Michael J Felicetta, DPM, Toms River, NJ
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| QUERIES (EMR) | |
Query: Extra EMR Fees
After a great deal of research about EMR, I decided on a well-known company. I gave a sizable deposit last year and have decided to purchase the hardware and get started. The company charges a monthly fee to access the system. I do not have a problem with the monthly fee we agreed upon, but I just received notice from them that two additional fees are required for the Medicare certification process. One is a $19.00 fee per month for patient portal, and the other is a $45.00 per month charge for ePrescribe. This was not mentioned when I gave my initial deposit. Do these fees sound correct and reasonable? Are other companies charging for this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Jack Ressler DPM, Lauderhill/Delray Beach, FL
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Bilateral Injection - Medicare Modifiers?
I have a patient with Medicare. She has a painful hallux rigidus (bilateral) - ICD-9: 735.2. If I were to inject cortisone into the great toe joints, how would the injections be coded?
Robert K Hall, DPM, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Response: I recommend you code the symptoms involved in the 1st metatarsal-phalangeal joint - e.g., joint pain, joint stillness - in addition to the hallux rigidus. Keep in mind that you are only injecting the cortisone to reduce or eliminate the acute pain/inflammation in the joint. The hallux rigidus, obviously, will not be affected. That also means that your medical records will need to explain the limitations to the injection therapy and its realistic goals.
MPJ joint injections are coded: CPT 20600-RT, CPT 20600-LT, as well as the therapeutic (cortisone) supply code.
Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SPORTS MEDICINE) | |
From: Amol Saxena, DPM, Jeff Mossel, DPM
I lived in Chicago for 5 years, but never ran a marathon back then. I do have some advice: wear Thermax or Smartwool socks. Place aluminum foil under the insoles which should be neoprene, or ideally a wicking material. Wear a small plastic bag over the toes so the mesh opening is blocked (sandwich baggies work well as a mini windbreaker), and wear close-fitting tights so that no draft goes up a bare leg. Also, keep moving!
There are two great solutions to running in winter climate. I have NOT run in Antarctica, but running in Michigan winters on trails, snow shoeing, and adventure races, you find a way to stay warm. The first major step is Gortex shoes like the Brooks GTX series which has waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® membrane so you can go almost anywhere, in almost any weather. The GHOST GTX is the neutral shoe while the Adreneline GTX is for the pronator. Both shoes also accommodate custom functional orthotics well.
If the marathon is on a plowed road or groomed trail, these shoes with appropriate smartwool-type running socks are plenty while running. It there is a possibility of drifting, or snow above the ankles, then ankle gaiters are used. Ensure that they purchase the hiking/running type which allow activities and keep snow from entering the tops of the shoes. I suggest the Seta strapless running gaiter by Mountain Hardwear.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
From: Zac Childress
I agree with Dr. Sherman that Fujitsu has several excellent scanning products on the market. Which one to purchase depends on the purpose. The $400 price range is likely the ScanSnap series and does not come with TWAIN compatible drivers. Most EHR software will require that a scanner be TWAIN-compliant in order to allow document scanning directly into their system. If you need a TWAIN compliant scanner, the Fujitsu 6130 is in the $850 price range and has a proven track record. It will scan at 40 pages per minute and performs duplex scanning if you have forms with printing on the front and back sides of the form. Search for this scanner at pricegrabber.com and you will see a wide variety of pricing. Ambir Technology has the ImageScan Pro 820 for $399.95. It will scan 25 pages per minute and is also duplex-compatible and TWAIN-compliant.
The hand-held scanners are sufficient for scanning insurance and ID cards at the front desk due to their small "footprint", but at 8 pages per minute would be tedious for high volume scanning jobs. Many cards are two-sided, so opt for the duplex version if you decide to purchase an ID card scanner.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 | |
From: Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM
I totally agree with Dr. Markinson on light-surgical/non-surgical podiatric practice. There has been a force to make podiatry a sub-surgical specialty that has existed from our first days as chiropodists. And yet, most of our society is affected by life-style caused degenerative diseases that far exceed the numbers of patients who require extensive, reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. I am writing an article for Podiatry Management Magazine that highlights non-surgical/light-surgical podiatry, with the intent of describing how podiatrists who do this can make a wonderful, lucrative living.
The irony is that most of our state laws, as presently constituted, permit us to provide these services WITHOUT any more legislative actions! There are about six that do not, but those are being improved now as well. The key is "functional foot and ankle" licensure. Where I practiced, in WA State, we had this licensure for over 20 years. We also have a "physician of the foot and ankle" licensure. There will be a huge cadre of patient demographics that require non-surgical, or limited surgical podiatric intervention. We should be taking care of these people. If we don't, others will step in and do it for us. As usual, it's up to us.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL/LEGAL ) | |
From: Richard A. Simmons, DPM
Dr. Tip Sullivan wrote of a situation where the family member of a deaf person acted as an interpreter, then presented a bill to the office demanding payment under some ADA guideline. The federal (ADA) guidelines do not support this. It is possible that some states or localities may have stricter requirements than the federal government. To be clear, on the website for the National Association of the Deaf is the following clarification of the rules established March 15, 2011 by the Department of Justice. Specifically, in this situation (a doctor’s office is included in the definition of “public accommodation”):
o Requires that when a public accommodation furnishes auxiliary aids to provide effective communication, it must consider the method of communication used by the individual; the nature, length, and complexity of the communication involved; as well as the context. Further that the public accommodation should consult with the individual with a disability, but the ultimate decision as to what measures will be provided rests with the public accommodation as long as effective communication is provided.
o Requires public accommodations to provide effective communication to families, friends, or associates of individuals seeking access to, or participating in, the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of a public accommodation.
o Prohibits public accommodations from relying on accompanying adults or children to interpret or facilitate communication except in emergencies.
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| MEETING NOTICES - PART 2 | |
Codingline & PM News
In conjunction with AAPPM Present
The Greenbrier Coding & Practice Management Workshop - August 20-22
(Following the 2012 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Washington, DC)
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The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV |
Earlybird Bonus Until March 1 - Save $50
Click Here for information or to Register
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| RESPONSES / COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) | |
RE: Podiatry Management Celebrates 30th Anniversary
From: David Armstrong, DPM, MD, PhD, Bret M. Ribotsky, DPM
I echo the words of my colleagues and congratulate Barry Block and David Kagan for 30 years of PM. Gents: you have become the undisputed town criers of this specialty and, in that capacity, the two most important people in it. Please keep it up and keep making a difference. Here's to another 30 happy and healthy years for you both and, by extension, for this great profession.
David Armstrong, DPM, MD, PhD, Tucson, AZ, armstrong@usa.net
To the whole PM team – INCREDIBLE. You have changed the world of podiatric medicine. In the 80s, podiatry was a local medical profession. People in New York treated things differently than doctors in California. When I was a student in the 80’s, there was a rule in biomechanics: east of the Mississippi most people had forefoot varus foot types, and west of the Mississippi people had forefoot valgus foot types.
Thanks to the nationalization and eventual globalization as a direct result of PM News, we have become a village with the sharing of information in record time. Dr. Block’s contribution to podiatry truly makes him a legend in our profession, and we are all so lucky to have him. Of course, if you have not seen the tribute and roast of Dr. Block, make sure you do, www.ACFAOM.org
I look forward to the 40th year and can only dream of where we will all be thanks to the framework that PM has developed.
Bret M. Ribotsky, DPM, Boca Raton, FL, ribotsky@yahoo.com
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
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 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM
PODIATRIC BILLER WANTED - LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Podiatry office in Los Angeles county looking for part-time biller experienced in podiatry Workman's Comp. Please fax or e-mail resume to 661-265-1877 or avfootdoc@mail.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – LASER SYSTEM
Laserscope Model Lyra i YAG Laser system with 3 hand pieces, eyewear sets, calibration unit, complete manual foot control and video information, for fungus nails, vein therapy and hair removal. The unit has the attached cooling system and all accessories $8,750.00. flpodiatrist@tampabay.rr.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK
Well established, well rounded, hospital based podiatry practice, looking for well trained podiatrist. Large number of new patients monthly, digital x-rays, EMR, and vascular and nerve testing. One partner is Chair of Pod Dept, other is involved in wound center. Two offices 75 miles north of New York City, in the beautiful Hudson Valley. More affordable cost of living than Westchester County; it’s a great place to live. Looking to hire a personable individual with strong ethics and high motivation. Seeking an associate leading to potential partnership. Must have PM & S- 36 training. Please call (845) 471-2243 or email eriksims@hotmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW JERSEY
Well established, well rounded podiatry practice, looking for well trained podiatrist. Large number of new patients monthly, digital x-rays and EMR. Doctor is Chair of Podiatry Department and involved in hospital wound healing center. Offices 75 miles west of New York City in the Lehigh Valley. Looking to hire a personable, highly motivated individual with strong ethics. Seeking an associate leading to potential partnership. Please send resume to: leannetitus@warrenhospital.org
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PHILADELPHIA, SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY
Seeking motivated, independent foot & ankle surgeon to join large practice. Our multi office practice covers all aspects of foot and ankle pathology, including heavy limb salvage/ hospital volume. Offering competitive salary and benefit package. Send CV and two references to: bleich5252@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Immediate position for associate to partnership for a surgeon that is BQ/BC by ABPS. Must be PSR-24 or PM&S-36 trained. Excellent salary w bonus. Must be ethical, self-starter, hard worker. Willingness to learn/work as part of a team. Surgery Block time. Must be proficient in rearfoot/ankle surgery. Email CV, photo, LOI to: susmitad86@yahoo.com
PART-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Busy podiatrist looking for assistance with patients located in facilities, homes, office, etc. Flexible hours, independence, and great compensation. If interested email CV to homefootcare@hotmail.com or call Terri at 323-353-8103.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LAS VEGAS/HENDERSON, NV
Well-established 22 year practice in Las Vegas/Henderson, Nevada seeking full-time associate. General podiatric care with moderate amount of surgery to be done in local hospital or surgery center. Competitive salary and benefits. Modern office in new area. Please respond by email to: lvfootandankle@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE NEEDED - NORTHERN CINCINNATI, OHIO (FAIRFIELD)
Lead to partnership &/or buy practice. Well-established, reputable & successful (700K collection annual) 25+ year practice. Newer 2k sq.ft office condo & w/5 tx rooms, Aver.80 new patients monthly, full hospital privileges, DME, Padnet, digital x-rays. Inquires to email: gsherwood1@cinci.rr.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST TENNESSEE
30 year old practice with 5 offices in greater Knoxville area seeking ethical, personable, hardworking, team player. $160,000 base salary with bonus incentives and benefits. Post-residency experience a plus. Please send resume to ddavidphawk@yahoo.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (ORANGE COUNTY)
Strong & diverse local economy, in a beautiful beach community. Well rounded, established since 1983, fully equipped. Consistently grossing over $600K. Many types of insurance, reimbursement and revenue sources. Local hospitals allow full scope of podiatric care. Terms available. Contact josephdpm@gmail.com
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 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 13,500 DPM's. 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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| 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.
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