The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

February 02, 2012 #4,374 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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OCPM Hosts Pre-Professional Internship Program

This January, the Office of Enrollment Management hosted two sessions of the Pre-Professional Internship Program. Twelve interns from eight different states attended the four-day programs. The week was full of interactive events, including private practice shadowing, clinic observation, and podiatrist-led demonstrations. The interns were able to observe anatomy and surgical skills classes, participate in student panels, and hear from OCPM alumni and current faculty members who shared their path to podiatry.  

Pre-Professional Internship Participants

Feedback from the program was very positive. One of the interns remarked how his experience was "awesome all around" and that "all interested students should participate in this great internship." Another intern commented that she "loved observing the doctors and how they interacted with their patients...and the student-teacher interaction was engaging and mutually respectful." The interns were also able to take advantage of several local dining options and attractions while they were here, such as Melt and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Source: Footsteps [January 2012]

APMWA Announces 26th Annual Student Writing Competition

The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 26th Annual Student Writing Competition.

• 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.
   
• There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
   
• First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), sponsored by an APMA Educational Foundation endowment from Dr. and Mrs. StevenBerlin, and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
   
• This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
   
• Entries must be received by 4/15/12 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
   
• Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry.

New Jersey Podiatrist Contributes to Book on Dupuytren's Disease

Dr. Terry L. Spilken, a podiatrist in Livingston, New Jersey, has written a chapter for a book edited by the Dupuytren's Society. The book is titled Dupuytren's Disease and Related Hyperproliferative Disorders: Principles, Research and Clinical Perspectives. Spilken's chapter is titled "Cryotherapy and Other Therapeutical Options for Plantar Fibromatosis."  

Dr. Terry Spilken

The initial impetus for this book was an Internet-based collaboration among affected patients, theoretical researchers, and clinicians of various disciples. This led to the 2010 International Symposium on Dupuytren's Disease where Spilken was one of the lecturers. Dr. Spilken is the current president of the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society, a member of the CPME Accreditation Committee, and a former dean at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine.

Aussie Podiatrist Provides Children's Shoe-Buying Advice

Choosing the right shoe for school is important for growing feet, but often the choice is complicated by a preference for fashion over function. Maria Zauner, of Suncoast Podiatry, who is not only a long-standing podiatrist but a mother herself, wants kids to listen to their mums.

Maria Zauner (Photo: Darryn Smith)

Maria advises against buying a shoe specific to one sport to help keep costs down. "Try to find a good universal sports shoe and consider the breathability of the shoe, what it is made of," she said. "If you buy a cheap synthetic shoe, you'll increase the likelihood of tinea which rises massively in wet and hot weather. "When buying, look at the breathability. Leather and mesh is always a good option.

Source: Noosa News [1/31/12]

AHIMA: Keep Going on ICD-10

Countering the position of the American Medical Association, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is urging its members to continue preparing for the October 2013 federally mandated conversion to the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision of diagnostic and procedural codes.

"If healthcare providers stop their ICD-10 planning and implementation now and wait to see if Congress will take action, they will not be ready in time for the compliance date," said Dan Rode, AHIMA vice president for advocacy and policy, in a statement.

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [1/31/12]

Query: CryoProbe for Tarsal Tunnel

I have a Workers Comp patient who does not want to undergo surgery for tarsal tunnel, so I am hoping that treating with CryoProbe is an option. How have the results been for those of you who have used it?

David L. Kahan, DPM, Carmichael, CA

Query: How To Address Patients

My staff routinely addresses patients by their first name. On the other hand, I address my substantial elders by Mr. or Mrs. so and so. I was wondering how it is being handled in other offices. I also was wondering if there are HIPAA implications in using patients' last names out loud in the waiting area.
 
Louis MacDonald, DPM, Moriches, NY

Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. How you or your staff address patients should probably be determined on a case-by-case basis. It seems logical to ask patients how they would like to be addressed, and then indicate that on their chart.

In terms of HIPAA, you can certainly address a patient by his or her name. You can say, "Mrs. Jones, please follow me." What you can't say is, "Mrs. Jones please follow me to the x-ray room," as this would be revealing PHI.

RE: Plantar Fascial Tears After Cipro? (David Weiss, DPM)
From: Charles R. Oehrlein, DPM

When it rains, it pours. I just had a patient come in with a suspected ruptured plantar fascia who has been taking Cipro for about 3 weeks and has a long history of taking it. I've been meaning to get around to looking up other suspected cases, again knowing of the Achilles rupture mentions, so now I am much more curious about this.
 
Charles R. Oehrlein, DPM, Hoover, AL, droehrlein@yahoo.com

RE: New MD Shoe Company Tells People to "Ditch Your Orthotics" (David Gurvis, DPM)
From: Dennis Shavelson, DPM

In making his observations regarding products claiming to help, reverse, or cure foot problems, Dr. Gurvis states that Dr. Kerrigan’s concept is the work of a religious quack.
 
The fact that most DPMs believe in subtalar joint neutral orthotics fervently, almost religiously, never led me to stoop to the level of calling  podiatrists quacks. It has led me to call upon us to admit to possible weaknesses and faults in our gold standard, and to keep an open mind to positive change. This is the case of my “Foot Centering Theory of Structure and Function” as an alternative progression forward to podiatric biomechanical orthodoxy.
  
Dennis Shavelson, DPM, NY, NY, DrSha@foothelpers.com

RE: Sammy Systems (Jack Ressler, DPM)
From: Marc Bendeth, DPM

I have been using The Sammy EMR System for many years. Dr. Ressler is correct in stating that it does do most tasks well, but for my purposes, it does all tasks well. Like everything else on Earth, there is a learning curve, but it is not a disruptive learning curve. Their customer support is stellar (which can drastically reduce the learning curve). They are extremely pleasant and easy to speak with, even if you are not the most computer-literate person. It is easy to use and easy to learn. Needless to say, I am one very satisfied customer. I endorse the Sammy EMR system without reservation.

Disclaimer: I have no financial ties to ICS.

Marc Bendeth, DPM, mlbendeth@optonline.net

RE: FL Podiatrist Promotes Laser Surgery with Groupons
From: Ira M. Baum, DPM
 
You tell me, where is podiatry going when there are podiatrists who will sell their services on Groupon? Many times, prices are arbitrarily set by Groupon without knowledge of the value. $299 for laser fungal nail treatment! It’s not about the value or cost of laser nail treatment; it’s about who sets the value. Podiatrists are free to practice and advertise how they want to within the letter of the law, but advertising and valuing a service in this manner is a statement about our profession. Sad.
 
Ira M. Baum, DPM, Miami, FL, ibaumdpm@bellsouth.net

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)  

The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV

Speakers: Harry Goldsmith, John Guiliana, Barry Block, Michael Brody, Paul Kesselman, Jonathan Moore, Rem Jackson, Chad Schwarz, and other nationally-known authorities. 

Earlybird Bonus Until March 1 - Save $50 

Click Here for information or to Register

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Cosman Radiofrequency Generator for Sale!  Model RFG-1B  Like New Condition. Comes with Manual, 17 Dispersive Electrodes, 2 CSK-R 10  Kits, 2 CSK-R 5 Kits, 11 CC RF Cannula 10cm/10mm/22G, 4 CC RF Cannula 10cm/5mm/22G,  1 - 5cm RF Cannula/22G (4mm Sharp Curved Tip), & 2 Replacement Fuses. Asking $10,500 OBO  Please Contact: nffpbosk@gmail.com

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

POSITION WANTED

ACFAS Fellow Board Certified in both Foot and Reconstructive Hindfoot/Ankle Surgery with 10 years of experience in all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery seeking a good fit for part-time venture leading to long-term association or partnership. Excellent communicator with outstanding interpersonal skills and exceptional bedside manner. Skilled in seeing high patient volume. Contact njfootdoc123@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN KENTUCKY

Available in beautiful southern Kentucky in progressive, multi-office practice with 6 providers. Excellent base salary, malpractice, full benefit package with 2-year track to partnership. Looking for someone that wants to grow with our practice, work hard and develop relationships with local hospitals and surrounding communities. Strong communication skills, bedside manner and willingness to learn a must. Narrow window for interviews: email CV and letter of interest before March 1: footdocky@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

I'm not just looking for an associate. I am looking for a doctor who wants to build a highly successful career with a doctor who is as committed to their success as he is to his own. Go towww.YourFutureInPodiatry.com to find out about this opportunity.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NJ

Looking for a three-year surgically-trained associate who has entrepreneurial spirit. Partnership guaranteed within three years for the right person. Must be very outgoing and personable. Great opportunity for a person who is confident and a go getter. drwfoot@verizon.net

 ASSOCIATE POSITION – FLORIDA

Emerald Coast on the North Shore of the Gulf of Mexico, a well-established group practice with multi-offices, seeking an associate with opportunity for partnership for a PSR-24/36 Doctor well-trained in foot/ankle/diabetic problems/wound care/surgical and medical podiatric care, covering 3 area hospitals, NO nursing homes. e-mail letter of interest, CV, and references to basewedge@yahoo.com

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 - NEW YORK

WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. Join a modern, well-established 42-year-old podiatric medical/surgical practice within a multi-specialty office. Located just 20 minutes from NYC. Must be responsible, compassionate, driven, and self-starter. Enjoy cross-referrals from other specialists and support of medical assistants, office managers, and medical billers with over 50 years combined experience. Utilize modern technology: state-of-the-art diagnostic ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, ESWT (machine is owned by practice), physical therapy, x-ray, circulation testing, NCV, and in-office operatory suite. Very strong and effective advertising/marketing program. No nursing homes, No HMOs, No Medicaid, No Medicare. Must be licensed for podiatry in New York. Send cover letter/CV to: linchpindpm@yahoo.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS - SUBURBAN NORTH DALLAS 

Great opportunity for the right individual. Seeking well-trained (PSR 24+), ethical, hard-working, motivated individual. Full scope of podiatry including office, hospital and surgery center work.  Partnership opportunity available. Well-rounded practice with competitive salary/benefits package. Please send letter of intent, CV and current photo to dpmposition@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST CHICAGO SUBURBAN AREA

Medical-surgical podiatry practice seeking well-trained individual to work full-time with future partnership opportunity. PSR-36 a minimum. Send CV to feetdpm@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 - LONG ISLAND, NY

Full time associate position available with well rounded multi-office group on Long Island. Ideal position for July 2012 graduating third year resident who wants to practice and live on Long Island. Candidates must be board qualified or board certified, and well trained in all phases of podiatry including surgery, biomechanics, wound care and palliative care. Compensation includes salary,malpractice insurance, paid vacations and surgical incentives, with a future partnership opportunity available for the right candidate. Interested doctors are encouraged to submit their CV's in response to: mets724@gmail.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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