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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,713 Podiatrists Daily
February 05, 2014 #4,980  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2014- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL | |
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
NY Podiatrist Takes Icy Plunge for Make-A-Wish
Braving cold temperatures, podiatrist Dr. Andrew Shapiro took the plunge on Super Bowl Sunday into the frigid Atlantic ocean waves in Long Beach, NY. This was the 7th year in a row he did this for Make-A-Wish Foundation. Cheered on by local residents, who had a lucky break from recent frigid temperatures and snowy conditions, more than 5,000 people jumped into the Atlantic Ocean for the 17th annual Long Beach Polar Bear Club Dip.
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Dr. Andrew Shapiro |
Organizers expect to raise well over a half a million dollars from this event. The Super Bowl Sunday tradition started in 1998 with two friends who began collecting funds for Make-A-Wish Foundation to honor the memory of their friend's 4-year-old son, who died of cancer. To date, they've raised more than $3 million to grant wishes for kids with life-threatening medical conditions.
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS AND THE LAW | |
Retired NZ Podiatrist Sentenced for Child Sex Abuse
An elderly man has been sentenced to home detention on more than 40 counts of child sex abuse. Geoffrey, or Geoff, Trethewey, 89, a retired podiatrist from Wellington and Wairarapa, appeared in Wellington District Court today on 42 counts of indecent assault and sexual violation against children under 12-years-old. He was sentenced to 12 months home detention, as many of the charges were representative over a period of time, police said.
Source: New Zealand Herald [2/3/14]
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| HEALTHCARE NEWS | |
Wait Times for Doc Appointments Increasing Nationwide
Researchers surveyed 1,399 practices last year in cardiology, dermatology, OB/GYN, orthopedic surgery, and family practice in 15 major metropolitan areas. Average physician appointment wait times include 28 days to see a cardiologist in Denver, 49 days to see a dermatologist in Philadelphia, 35 days to see an obstetrician-gynecologist in Portland, 18 days to see an orthopedic surgeon in San Diego, and 26 days to see a family physician in New York City. Physician appointment wait times tracked in the survey varied from as little as one day to more than eight months, with an overall average in all metro areas and all specialties of about 19 days, the survey shows.
"Finding a physician who can see you today, or three weeks from today, can be a challenge, even in urban areas where there is a high ratio of physicians per population," Mark Smith, president of Merritt Hawkins, a national physician search and consulting firm, said in a release. "The demand for doctors is simply outstripping the supply."
Source: Mark Crane, Medscape News [1/31/14]
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Most Effective Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Recently, a 42 year old female presented with acute plantar fasciitis. X-rays revealed a calcaneal spur. I ordered an ultrasound as part of an ongoing research project. I was wondering if any PM News readers can comment on the thickness of the fascia (affected side is twice as thick as the normal unaffected side) and any correlation between the use of injectables, surgical intervention, or orthoses. Are any of these treatments more effective or provide a more rapid resolution? I would be interested in any published articles that might be pertinent.
Chuck Ross, DPM, Pittsfield, MA
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Laser Treatments of Warts
My doctor performed a CO2 laser treatment for warts. Is CPT 17106 (destruction of cutaneous vascular proliferative lesions [e.g., laser technique]) the appropriate code to use to bill this procedure? If not, what would be an appropriate treatment code?
The claim has been denied due to ICD-9 078.10 (verrucae, unspecified) and ICD-9 216.7 (benign neoplasm, lower extremity) being invalid diagnosis codes for this procedure.
Doni James, Billing Specialist, Office of Thomas Vail, DPM, Finley, OH
Response: Yes, you can use a laser in the treatment of this condition. The problem is that a wart is not a cutaneous vascular proliferative lesion. Clinically, it never has been. An example of a cutaneous vascular proliferative lesion is a hemangioma.
If you are treating a wart by destruction - regardless of the recognized technique - you would code the procedure as CPT 17110 (up to 14 warts destroyed). Presuming the doctor is treating plantar warts, the code is ICD-9 078.12; mosaic wart, ICD-9 078.19; other (vulgaris) wart, ICD-9 078.10.
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 (CLINICAL) | |
From: Lloyd Smith, DPM
So, just about the easiest diagnosis to make. The article by Dr. Saxena confirms my many years of experience. The patient presents with acute pain and a gap in the PF. Palpate the defect. Ecchymosis may be present, but not always. Imaging is rarely necessary but may help confirm the diagnosis and avoid legal action. If so, start with an US for cost benefit issues. An MRI is often overkill. Make sure the plain films do not reveal a fracture of a possible heel spur.
Treatment: A CAM walker if the condition is really painful, but taping for a few weeks works too. Then, as symptoms diminish, start PT with strength, flexibility, and balance exercises. It takes three months for full activity to be advisable. Equate the injury to an EPF. Patients will respond favorably and admire your skillful diagnosis and treatment guidance.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
RE: Recertify the American Board of Podiatric Public Health
From: Victor Marks, DPM, MPH
After reading the many divided opinions regarding RFC, it's time APMA re-certified the American Board of Podiatric Public Health. Public health specialists (such as Dr. Arthur Helfand) can best recommend the type of care the community needs and how to best implement it. APHA continues to have a Podiatric Health Section. Medicine has the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Why did APMA dismantle ABPPH? Preventive medicine needs a much larger voice in podiatry.
If anyone else feels as I do, please contact me.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 | |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Kudos to Dr. Grapel for standing his ground when going to a specialist and being surprised that "the specialist" he made an appointment to see had him examined by a PA.
I have mixed feelings about the role of physician assistants in our healthcare system. At my allergist's office, there is one PA who is so on top of things and caring, that most of the patients including myself will choose him when we are not feeling well. On the other hand, I was once feeling very ill and went to a primary care doctor and the PA was straight out of school with little to no training in the area she was working in. After giving me a very superficial examination, she had to go into another room every time I asked her a question to ask the doctor.
After the fifth time, I asked if I could see the doctor directly and the answer was "no." His earliest available appointment was in three months." Needless to say, I changed doctors. The point is that there is nothing inherently wrong with PAs. It's the fault of the doctors in charge who are sometimes very dishonest by having under-trained PAs take charge of cases they are not yet capable of handling. There should be laws in place to protect the public.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) | |
From: Brian Kiel, DPM, Ron Werter, DPM
I don't quite understand how numerous podiatrists can blame the Affordable Care Act for forcing their retirement. ICD-10 was mandated way before ACA and in fact has nothing to do with any presidential administration. ACA has been in effect for one month. Sure, things are in transition, but to blame the ACA for forcing one's retirement is absurd. At this point, I have no idea what the future holds, but rather than complain about it, adapt, adjust, and figure out how to make the best of it.
I'm not sure why Dr. Peterson stopped before the ACA even went into effect. ICD-10 goes into effect in October. So far, I see no new requirements for ACA affecting my practice. I don't even know if the fee structure is different. I think he just wants to retire without taking responsibility for doing so.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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Choose any or ALL (50 CME Contact Hours) from the 30+ CME Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
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 - CALIFORNIA (SANTA CRUZ COUNTY)
The Foot Doctors of Santa Cruz County is a multi-office podiatric group looking for a self-motivated, committed podiatrist with a CA license. Offices are up-to-date with EMR, digital x-ray, and laser. Duties include all aspects of podiatry including wound care, surgical cases and nursing homes. There is great surgical growth potential. Must intend to reside locally. Send CV to: srfctysc@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - KENTUCKY
Immediate opening for palliative/general podiatric care provider in established clinics, nursing home and assistive living settings in beautiful Southern Kentucky. Travel involved, but transportation provided along with ability to provide a wide range of clinical care including DME. Board certification not mandatory, but must be eligible for KY state license. Base salary with incredible bonus opportunity/full benefits. Join Kentucky’s largest and most respected podiatric group. Email CV and letter of interest to: jonkim12000@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN, NJ
Part-time position available in Southern NJ. Podiatrist wanted for house calls as well as some facilities. Flexible schedule, possibly leading to office hours in the future. Well established practice, now extending services. Looking to fill this position immediately if you are available. Please respond to drjpel@aol.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PUERTO RICO
Looking for a well-motivated surgically trained podiatrist for a 20 year-old hospital-based multi-office practice. WILL BE INTERVIEWING PERSONALLY AT 2014 ACFAS MEETING IN ORLANDO Candidate must be personable, ambitious, and knowledge of SPANISH language a must. Hospital surgical privileges available with heavy load of high-risk diabetic foot patients. This position leads to PARTNERSHIP, and eventually ownership. Offices located near San Juan Metro area nearbBeaches, great schools, and major shopping malls. Please send CV to medicopodiatra@aol.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL PA
Looking for an associate with strong surgical training. Personal and energetic a must. The physician will provide all aspects of podiatric practice, including sports medicine, wound care, and foot and ankle surgery. Competitive compensation package. Partnership opportunity for right person. To apply, please email, letter of intent and CV to premierfootpa@outlook.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WASHINGTON, DC/MD
High volume practice with sports medicine emphasis looking for a PSR24/36 month trained full-time associate to replace retiring senior partner. Work with a prominent residency program with an opportunity to invest in an outpatient surgery center. Please send CV and cover letter of practice philosophy to hgodpm@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION- MANHATTAN AND BROOKLYN
Podiatrist wanted for busy, expanding group practice which covers all aspects of podiatry including surgery. Must be able to work in both Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. Position available asap. Please send resume and references to yfrierson@starrettpodiatry.com.
FULL TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - BROOKLYN, NY
Excellent opportunity for a motivated, ethical and enthusiastic associate. Practice is established and hospital affiliated. PSR 24/36 and Board eligible/certified by ABPS preferred. Must be competent in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. Competitive salary with incentives. Email CV to manfootcare@aol.com or fax to (718) 875-3171.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SW FLORIDA
Immediate position available in SW Florida. Podiatrist to join a small group. Must be Florida licensed, surgical privileges pending experience. Board Certification or Qualified preferred but not necessary. Some nursing home care and limited travel. Excellent pay and lifestyle. Send CV to: 1foot.ankle@G-Mail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MISSOURI
Midwest practice opportunity for PSR 24/36 BQ/BC associateship leading to ownership. Surgical and general podiatric practice with high volume foot surgery, wound care and hospital affiliations. Email stcpod@att.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – CHICAGO, IL
Podiatrist in Chicago. Independent, energetic Dr. needed to do house calls; schedule will be accommodated due to Dr.'s preferences; both full- and part-time will be considered. Send your inquiries to: dpms2@hotmail.com
HOME FOOT CARE, INC. – LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Be part of the fastest growing podiatric house call company on the West Coast! We need motivated, honest, caring podiatrists to treat our growing network of home patients located in the greater LA area. Flexible hours, independence and great compensation! If interested, send CV to:homefootcare@hotmail.com. Check us out @ www.footdocs2u.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TENNESSEE
Opportunity for fully credentialed podiatrist(s) needed to join or purchase a high-volume practice with enormous growth. Located on the largest medical center/hospital campus in East Tennessee. Please email CV, letter of intent, and references to PodiatryFootAnkle@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NY (ROSLYN AND HUNTINGTON)
Join one of the largest podiatry groups on the East Coast. Well established and progressive offices, including EMR, digital x-ray, PVR and NCV studies, PinPointe laser, and Microvas therapy. For more info, www.GreatFootCare.com. Send resume to: Dr.Kassaris@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – CONNECTICUT
High volume practice seeking a hard-working, motivated, Connecticut licensed podiatrist. Duties to include diabetic foot care, wound care and minor office procedures. Please submit CV to: podiatrypeople@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO
Group practice in Ohio seeks a well-trained surgeon, PSR24/36 preferred. Our practice provides all of the latest technology needed to provide patients with the best care, including Lasers, PAD Testing, DME, EMR and Digital X-ray. Competitive compensation package including salary and bonus. Please send CV to: DPMgroup1@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – TEXAS
Corsicana Foot and Ankle is seeking an PSR-24 associate with possible future partnership. Brand new state-of-the-art facility, one hour south of Dallas, complete with EMR, digital x-ray, PADnet, ultrasound and hospital privileges. Competitive salary with benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to footdoc3143@gmail.com
PODIATRY OFFICE FOR RENT - STATEN ISLAND, NY
1000 square foot (approximate) office in large modern medical center. Good parking, public transportation, 36 years as a podiatry office. 5 exam rooms, business office, lab, reception room, bathroom, central air. Great layout. Designed for Podiatry/medical. Call 212 794 0089.
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 15,500 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 15,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com 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.
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