The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

February 08, 2011 #4,084 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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We've just mailed the February 2011 issue of Podiatry Management. This 220-page issue includes our  cover story, "How to Select EHR Software for Your Podiatry Practice," as well as an assortment of features, including our informative columns, and a CPME-approved CME.

February 2011 Podiatry Management

Unionized Podiatrists Offer Free Foot/Ankle Care to NFL Players During Lockout or Strike

Unionized podiatrists at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia are offering free foot and ankle care to any active NFL player in the event of a league lockout or strike. The podiatrists are members of the First National Guild for Healthcare Providers of the Lower Extremity, Guild 45 of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), AFL-CIO.

Dr. John Mattiacci

"With Super Bowl Sunday this weekend, we are aware that a lockout or strike is looming and that these players may lose their health insurance as a result," said Dr. John Mattiacci, dean of the TUSPM.  "But these players will continue to need physical therapy and rehabilitation, so the unionized faculty and staff podiatrists of the TUSPM will stand with our union brothers and offer these services at no cost if a lockout or strike happens.

International Charcot Foot Task Force Convenes in Paris

The American Diabetes Association and the American Podiatric Medical Association convened an international task force of experts to make recommendations on the diabetic Charcot foot. The meeting was located in Paris, France at the famous La Salpetriere Hospital, the previous institution of Jean-Martin Charcot (1825-1893). The committee reached a consensus on the definition, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and recommended treatment of the Charcot foot. The task force report will be jointly published in Diabetes Care and the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association later this year and presented at both associations’ scientific meetings. The meeting was supported by unrestricted educational grants from Small Bone Innovations, Integra Life Sciences, and Sanofi-Aventis.

International Charcot Foot Task Force members outside the J-M Charcot Library.

Taskforce members are co-chair Lee C. Rogers (USA), co-chair Robert G. Frykberg (USA), David G. Armstrong (USA), Andrew JM Boulton (UK), Michael Edmonds (UK), Agnes Hartemann (France), Georges Ha Van (France), Fran Game (UK), William Jeffcoate (UK), Alexandra Jirkovska (Czech Republic), Edward Jude (UK), Stephan Morbach (Germany), William Morrison (USA), Michael Pinzur (USA), Dario Pitocco (Italy), Lee Sanders (USA), Dane Wukich (USA), Luigi Uccioli (Italy).

DFCon Scientific Abstracts See Record-Breaking Year

In a signal of international awareness of the importance of diabetes and amputation prevention, the 2011 International Diabetic Foot Conference (DFCon11) has seen an unprecedented increase in scientific abstract submission from all corners of the globe. "DFCon has always been highly international in scope", notes David G. Armstrong, Professor of Surgery and Director of the University of Arizona's Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA) and DFCon's co-Founder and co-Chair, "What is simply inspiring is seeing the outpouring of scientific works from our delegates from every inhabited continent."

Drs. George Andros and David G. Armstrong, DFCon Co-Founders, outside the Kodak Theatre.

The symposium, which has physicians, scientists, and healthcare professionals from some 50 nations, has received submissions from countries as diverse as Mongolia, Iran, and Afghanistan. DFCon Co-Course Director Lee Rogers, a podiatric surgeon and Associate Director of Valley Presbyterians' Amputation Prevention Center in Los Angeles,  went on to say, "To see real interdisciplinary interaction-- from podiatric and vascular surgery to diabetology, nursing, plastics, infectious disease and physical therapy, I can't begin to say how excited we are for another meeting this March."

Editor's Note: PM News is proud to present excerpts from Meet the Masters.

Bret Ribotsky: What is the difference between the available EHR certifications?

Dr. Michael Brody

Michael Brody: There are two major types of certification. One is ONC certification and one is CCHIT comprehensive certification. ONC certification means that the software meets all the requirements of the government’s meaningful use program. Full CCHIT certification is a certification process that was developed by the EMR industry.

A program that is CCHIT-certified does a lot more than just meeting meaningful use. For the purposes of the incentive, all you need is ONC certification. A number of things that are in CCHIT full certification are really geared towards primary care medicine, but there are some features and tools built into CCHIT certification that do not exist in ONC certification. For example, CCHIT certification requires that the software will actually help you with coding and suggest the appropriate level for E&M.

Dr. Patrick Deheer

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday Night at 9 PM (EST). The next segment  will feature  Dr. Patrick Deheer,  podiatric sports medicine authority and humanitarian. You can register for this event by clicking here

Guided Joint Injections/Aspirations
From: Paul Kesselman DPM

A recent study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine reported increased efficacy for joint aspirations when performed under ultrasound guidance. While this small study did not discuss ankle, subtalar, or small joints, it did compare non-guided vs. guided injection results for larger joints such as the knee, elbow, and shoulder.

If guided injections for larger joints is more effective, it would seem that a similar or even greater efficacy for injections and/or aspirations into smaller joints usually addressed by podiatrists, could be predicted.

Paul Kesselman, DPM, DPM, Woodside, NY, pkesselman@pol.net

RE: Lobster Claw Deformity (Dale Shrum, DPM)
From Robert Schwartz, CPed

Lobster Claw Deformity

The Eneslow technique to manage this Lobster Claw Deformity is to make this lady a pair of custom molded shoes with double side lacing on each shoe. You may want to include the addition of a toe filler or “Foot Filler” to help maintain the shape and integrity of the shoe. And, if the birth defect affects the hands in a similar manner – consider the use of zippers or other type closures instead of laces.

Robert Schwartz, CPed, NY, NY, rss@eneslow.com

RE: Radiographs and Plantar Fasciitis (Judd Davis)
From: Gino Scartozzi, DPM

I read each day the ongoing and hotly debated positions of multiple podiatric practitioners and would like to offer the following positions and thoughts for consideration and debate among us all.

Dr. Davis puts forth the position that if 15,000 podiatrists were to take x-rays of 10 heel pain patients per week at a cost of "$25 a pop" that it would create approximately 250 million dollars in health expenditures which would be deemed to be unnecessary and wasted. I would respectfully argue that the information obtained from a radiograph (a mere bargain at $25 compared to other imaging costs) would provide and lead to better care/outcomes for that patient. I do not believe that most clinicians solely focus (or should) on the calcaneus with a patient presenting for heel pain to make a diagnosis of heel spur syndrome.

The presence of a calcaneal fracture or tumor IS rare in the heel pain patient who presents for care. However, the presence of...

Editor's note: Dr. Scartozzi's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Universal Training and Parity (Multiple Respondents)
From: Barry Mullen, DPM

My first paragraph's comments (in a previous posting) were reflective of podiatry's acceptance in Title XVIII (Medicare definition) in response to Dr. Bijak's paramedical comments, related to the inaccuracy of some of the orthopedist's comments. My second paragraph's commentary (i.e., equal pay for work, etc.) is a direct reflection of our lack of physician status designation as defined by title XIX (Medicaid defined).

While certainly not for lack of previous effort, the resultant profession's failure of Title XIX incorporation should serve as a wake-up call to reflect, re-examine, and re-define the profession's required re-direction of its continued pursuit in this endeavor; particularly in light of the fact that Title XVIII incorporation has not equated to ...

Editor's note: Dr. Mullen's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Employee Embezzlement (Name Withheld)
From: Daniel D. Michaels, DPM, MS

This is what you should do to manage and secure your cash flow:

1. Have your insurance checks go to a secure location where someone you trust gets the checks and deposits them into your account. Your wife could do this if you trust her, or you can, for a fee, hire your bank to do this. This will secure your insurance checks. Additionally, get everything to go electronic from the insurance companies directly to your account.

2. Get credit card machines to take credit cards that will go directly to your bank account. Upgrade your credit card machine to scan the checks, as... 
 
Editor's note: Dr. Michael's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: ASPS Launches Standalone Surgical Seminar
From: Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM
 
As a regular attendee of the Midwest Podiatry Conference (MPC), I look forward to it every year. I received notice that ASPS was going to hold its first standalone surgical seminar, the day before the MPC, and saw they would be presenting an excellent program, but I am not a member of the fledging ASPS. I called them to find out the category I would be in, as I am not ABPS-certified.

I wasn't surprised that the only thing they were willing to offer was a fee of $350, as a non-member, which INCLUDED membership in ASPS. I was all set to join and register until I found out the "membership" was only good to June 2011. I was told this "offer" was to introduce non-members to ASPS. Really? Why then isn't the membership fee of $200 good for 12 months? Is this just more of the same stuff we are so used to? 
 
Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL, Doc@FootSportsDoc.com

PART-TIME/FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - INDIANA

Part-time full-time Podiatrist needed for our Indiana offices. Must have Indiana license. Must have completed two years of surgical residency. If qualified email to f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NE GEORGIA SUBURB

Immediate opening for PSR24/36, ABPS Qualified or Certified individual. Hosp/Amb. Surg. Ctn  privileges available. Good chance of partnership or practice purchase in foreseeable future. Send resume/CV to gramps395@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION NYC (PART TIME) 
Manhattan (East Harlem) Community Health Center. Experienced podiatrist with commitment to providing quality care. Bilingual Spanish a plus Please forward resume and cover letter including salary requirement. FAX: (212) 360-6149 Email:  orodriguez@boriken.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTH CAROLINA

Cornerstone Health Care, one of the largest physician-owned and managed multispecialty groups in the Southeast, seeks podiatric physician for office located in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. The physician must have three years of training and board qualification in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. Cornerstone has over 290 providers in 75 locations. Physicians benefit from centralized billing, purchasing, and human resources, while maintaining autonomy over office practices. A state-of-the-art EMR system provides instant access to all Cornerstone patient records. Send CV to page.redpath@cornerstonehealthcare.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Immediate opening. Well-established podiatric group in Southwest Florida. Multi-office practice with EMR, Digital x-ray, Ultrasound... Seeking full-time associate that is PM&S-36 trained, personable, independent and highly motivated. Must be BC/BS in rearfoot /ankle with confidence in complex reconstructive cases. Full benefits package, competitive salary, excellent lifestyle. Email CV to: JLH459@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY

One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Preferably a Spanish speaking podiatrist. Contact me at Podocare@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHARLOTTE, NC

Well-established multi-office practice looking for personable, motivated associate leading to partnership. Excellent opportunity in a growing area. Contact charpodiatry@gmail.com

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE- ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO

Join a well-established modern practice with an excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $100,000 and benefits with a bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, all aspects of DME, Padnet vascular studies, and CO2 lasers. We seek a surgeon that is well trained, personable and motivated to join our group of 3 Podiatric Surgeons. Would like this individual to buy in the practice eventually. Please send resume to ohiodoctors@aol.com

PART-TIME / FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED ASAP - CHICAGO

Part-time podiatrist needed for 2 offices in Chicago with an average of 20 hours/week. Must have Illinois license. Must have completed 2 years of surgical residency. If qualified, email to: A-Storjohann@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA

Busy office in Long Beach, CA is seeking a well-trained, motivated podiatrist to join their busy office. Applicants must have completed a surgical residency program and must have exceptional skills in all aspects of podiatry especially rear-foot surgery, sports medicine and biomechanics. Send letter of interest and CV to footman991@gmail.com

TEXAS- WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY!

Successful multi-office, multi-professional practice seeks well-trained new and established Podiatric Physicians with expertise in one of these areas: 1. Sports Medicine/Biomechanics/Gait Analysis, 2. Podopediatrics, 3. Diabetic Specialist, 4. Ankle & Rearfoot Surgery/Ankle Arthroscopy. A must to be really good in this niche, be outgoing, motivated, and personable with a dedicated hard working ethical desire to become successful. Send resume and letter of intent to sierrajip@gmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - COOL TOUCH LASER

Cool Breeze Cool Touch CT3 plus laser used for ugly, unsightly, toe nail infections. Less than six months old. Great price won't last long. Considering a laser? We also have the Q- Clear Q- switch laser too. This laser is perfect for you. Dr. Zuckerman is in the Fort Lauderdale area and will demo this lasers on your patients. E-mail footcare@comcast.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MARYLAND, DC SUBURBS

Great opportunity. Well established and equipped practice for sale. Office includes state licensed Ambulatory Surgical Center. Present owner is retiring but will stay on as needed for smooth transition. Average gross over past 3 years is $575 K. dpmpracticeforsale@yahoo.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BOSTON SUBURB

A 12+ year practice, including all equipment is for immediate sale.  Average gross is $100K while being open only one day weekly. The ability for increased growth potential is obviously excellent with increased hours. Doctor is looking for serious offers only. Reply to shop@thefootdoctor.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SW LOUISIANA 
 
Only full-time podiatrist in city of 30,000. Great economic base of oil refineries and numerous petrochemical companies as well as riverboat casinos. Located in sportsman’s paradise. Practice comes with 2600 sq. ft. office building and all supplies. 7 area hospitals. Reasonably priced. Contact FINANCING AVAILABLE peshdpm@pol.net

SPACE AVAILABLE- NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share with DPM and chiropractor, 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. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

SPACE AVAILABLE - BRANSON, MO

Great opportunity to develop a podiatry practice in a four condominium Branson office building with a growing ophthalmology practice along with a well established optometry practice and a multi-disciplinary ambulatory surgery center in Branson, a top ten retirement destination.The available condominium is a grey box so it can be build out to specifications. Rental and/or ownership options are available for this condominium. Practice development financing and ASC ownership available for the right doctor. Great schools and affordable lakeside or golf course living available. Contact Dr. James Bureman @ jbureman@missourieye.com or 417-861-5839

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