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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,709 Podiatrists Daily
February 11, 2014 #4,985  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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| IN YOUR MAILBOX SOON | |
We've just mailed the February 2014 issue of Podiatry Management. Our cover story is titled "PM's 31st Annual Survey: Working Smarter." In addition, you'll find our usual assortment of features, including our columns and a CPME-approved CME.
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February 2014 Podiatry Management |
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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If the American Board of Podiatric Public Health were recertified, would you apply? |
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Click HERE for Results |
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Both High and Low Arches Can Benefit From Orthotics: IL Podiatrist
If you have flat feet or high arches, you're more likely to get plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of your foot. It’s the leading cause of heel pain. Without proper arch support, you can have pain in your heels, arch, and leg. “You can also develop bunions and hammertoes, which can become painful,” says Dr. Marlene Reid, a podiatrist in Naperville, IL.
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Dr. Marlene Reid |
For these conditions, see a podiatrist to get fitted with custom inserts for your shoes. They can be pricey, but they can really help. "They're like eyeglasses for your feet," Reid says.
Source: Source: Kara Mayer Robinson. WebMD [2/7/14]
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
Children's Shoe Sizing Key to Preventing Damage to Feet: Aussie Podiatrists
Growth plates in a child’s foot mean bones have not been fully formed in their feet compared to adults, making the fit of their shoes crucial to proper development. Podiatrists Dana Standring and Terry Green said children’s feet are softer and more flexible than an adult’s.
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(L-R) Terry Green and Dana Standring (Photo: Louise Donges) |
“Children’s feet are constantly changing, so particularly after the long summer break, it is important to have their feet re-measured and buy correct fitting school and sports shoes,” Standring said. Otherwise, she said ill-fitted shoes can damage their feet.
Source: Philip Ly, Daily Liberal [2/8/14]
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
BC Podiatric Medical Association Works to Recycle Shoes for the Needy
The Vancouver Sun Run is kicking into high gear. Participants may be thinking of buying a fresh pair of runners. But what to do with those stinky old trainers? Before you toss them out, you may want to consider a program in Vancouver that will scrub them clean, and donate them to those in need. Sun Run ShoeRenu is a program in partnership with the three Sun Run stores: The Right Shoe, Rackets and Runners, and Peninsula Runners. It also works with the Rotary Club of Vancouver Quadra, Salvation Army, and the BC Podiatric Medical Association to set up three or four clinics a year in the Downtown Eastside to hand out clean shoes to homeless people and low-income earners.
Eight years ago, the rotary club had a podiatrist come and speak about the rampant foot problems among residents of the Downtown Eastside. Many people wear the same pair of shoes for years, said Graham Salvail, president of the Rotary Club of Vancouver, and they wear them with holes, letting their feet get soaked every time it rains. He said podiatrists are seeing everything from fungal infections that haven’t been treated to more serious issues such as gangrene.
Source: Tiffany Crawford, Vancouver Sun [2/7/14]
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| SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS | |
Bret Ribotsky: Please relate a valuable lesson you learned about practice management.
Harry Goldsmith: When I was first in practice, a podiatrist colleague came to my office. I treated a lady who had a complaint of an ingrown nail. She had a mild proud flesh, a thin nail plate that was incurvated and buried in the distal nail fold. I took a nail nipper and carefully resected the distal half of the nail margin in a diagonal. It took all of a couple of seconds. I applied a Band-Aid and told her to call me if the local swelling and pain didn't disappear in a couple of days. Later, my friend leaned over and asked me why I took care of the patient the way I did. I felt good about the ease with which I resolved the patient’s problem, and let my colleague know. He wisely explained that patients with foot problems tend to self-treat prior to coming to us; that, in all likelihood, the patient tried clipping back the nail in order to relieve herself of the ingrown nail pain. Obviously, she was unsuccessful.
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Dr. Harry Goldsmith |
Then she came to see me, and in a couple of seconds, I did what she tried to do…and sent her on her way with a bill. He noted that patients come to a doctor for treatments that they could not do themselves. He said that he hoped that I got all the buried nail spicule out because if the patient’s pain didn’t resolve in a couple of days or returned in short order, she would remember how little I made of the treatment…and the bill. He said that blocking the toe – something the patient could never do – scrubbing the distal foot, taking a nail nipper or nail splitter longitudinally along the margin, dramatically made a big deal of the treatment and ensured that the margin was clear of nail or abscess. It was a lesson in professionalism as well as “value” versus “cost” that I never forgot.
Meet the Masters airs live every Tuesday night. This week's guest is to be announced. You can register for this and future events by clicking here
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
The Importance of Consistency
Does out-of-date equipment imply out-of-date knowledge and skills? Does an office that is anything less than meticulously clean cast suspicion on the quality of care? Can a receptionist who gives patients a hard time about seeing the doctor in an "emergency" or changing appointments "sour" them against the practice?
Perhaps not, but to many people, these inconsistencies send negative messages. The reason? People tend to judge the unknown by the known. It emphasizes the need for consistency between the image you want your practice to project to others -- and the image it does project. If you want to communicate a message of "quality care," then everything in your practice and everything you, your associates and staff do must exude exude quality -- clearly, compellingly, and consistently.
Source: Bob Levoy, 201 Secrets of a High Performance Optometric Practice
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| QUERIES (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
Query: DPM Supervision of PTs
We are having trouble with Medicare claims when I am listed as the supervising physician. I practice in an orthopedic group. I am wondering if this is a result of a podiatrist listed when some PT procedures are for anatomical locations above the lower leg. Has anyone else encountered this? Is there a solution?
Craig Breslauer, DPM, Stuart, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) | |
From: Don Peacock, DPM
Undertaking the most effective treatment for chronic fasciitis depends on what foot type you are dealing with. Patients who have a rigid rear foot and stable or mildly flexible forefoot will do well with plantar fascial releases and orthotic management. Patients who have a stable rear foot and stable forefoot may do well with changing activity levels and/or orthotic management. These patients also do well with surgical correction by plantar fascia release or heel spur resection.
However, patients who have a flexible rear foot and flexible forefoot can have significant long-term complications with a fascial release, including the development of PTTD and/or nerve impingement. These patients can have tremendous transverse plane deformity. Remember, plantar fasciitis is not technically inflammation, but is due to overstretching of the plantar fascial band. This is what causes the hypertrophy/thickening of the band.
Our treatments should take into account the etiology of the overstretching. Flexible patients do well with extra osseous STJ stabilization. If the patient displays a less than optimal calcaneal inclination angle and tests positive for gastroc equinus, then a gastroc resection should be effective.
Ironically, minimally invasive removal of heel spurs can be safe in nearly all foot types. With this technique, we are leaving part of the medial and most of the lateral plantar fascia band intact. We are eliminating the pain by nerve damage in our recession of the heel spur, and thereby relieving the pain. In this atypical goal, the nerve damage works for our patients' benefit.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
RE: Recertify the American Board of Podiatric Public Health
From: Victor S. Marks, DPM, MPH
My original and main intent was to stimulate debate/discussion regarding the topic "do we really want to eliminate RFC patients from our practices or give it to someone else?" I feel that an active Board in Community Health and Preventive Medicine can best shed light on what foot care the community needs and how they can best be provided for. Then, we can best make decisions on how to proceed.
Last week's PM News survey clearly demonstrates a large percentage of our practices consist of RFC. Correct me if I'm wrong, but many podiatrists still prefer to be non-surgical or do a minimal amount of surgery, while others prefer surgery. One is not right and the other wrong. One is not better than the other. Both are correct. It is a matter of what one is comfortable doing. We should be working in harmony.
My only point at this time is that we need to OPEN FORMAL DISCUSSIONS to give preventive medicine a louder voice in podiatry. For starters, the foot care needs of our increasing geriatric population depends on us to keep them ambulatory. Medicare guidelines need to be revisited so our elderly can be better served. As Dr. Leonard Levy pointed out, "medicine and dentistry have had their Board for decades." We need a Board!
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL)- PART 2 | |
RE: Time for a Degree Change
From: Robert Bijak, DPM
For many years, PM News has provided a cross-section of insights on the podiatry profession. No one can disagree that the last issue (#4,984) portrayed podiatry as it really is. A poll revealed that the majority of podiatrists say that routine foot care is a major part of their practices. There were also articles about podiatrists discussing frostbite of the toes, and about how to buy shoes.
Despite claims of 3-year residency equality with MDs, and a bright financial future, the reality looms that unless the profession and colleges upgrade their curriculum and licenses to an MD scope, podiatrists will continue to be known for cutting toe nails, making arch supports, and doing minor elective surgery. The next major project announcement should be curriculum change and a degree change. What is the delay?
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
APMA’s “ICD-10 Is Here”- Atlanta
Speaker: Harry Goldsmith, DPM, CSFAC
When: March 1, 2014 (9 AM – 3:30 PM)
Where: Renaissance Atlanta Midtown – Register by February 14 to lock in the preferred hotel rate
Topics: Preparation Timeline – ICD-10 Guidelines, Definitions, and Conventions – FAQs -Crosswalking ICD-9 Codes to ICD-10 Codes – Coding with ICD-10 – Tough Questions About ICD-10 Use - ICD-10 and Office Workflow Issues – Coding Foot & Ankle Clinical Conditions (Interactive)
"ICD-10 is Here" seminars March 1 (Atlanta), April 2 (Midwest Podiatry Conference), July 27-30 (APMA ASM and Post-Conference Coding in Paradise) and August 16 (Philadelphia),
“ICD-10 is Here” webinars, First and Third Thursdays of the Month
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| CODINGLINE CORNER |
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 - 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- 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.
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 – 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
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHEAST GEORGIA STATESBORO & SURROUNDING AREAS
Beautiful weather year round. Seeking experienced, Family-oriented, podiatrist looking to build a career & long-term relationship. Must be PSR-24/36 trained. Multiple locations. Full range of services with access to Surgical Center. Willing to live in a College town with rural settings. E-mail cover letter & CV to melissafoot@atlanticfeet.com.
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
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 - UPSTATE NEW YORK
Mmulti-specialty, busy practice looking for highly motivated Podiatrist. Outstanding opportunity, excellent salary and benefits, working with three Podiatrists as well as residents, high volume of surgical cases, advance wound care, broad based referrals, and Electronic medical records. Opportunity for partnership. Please submit CV to associateinfoot@yahoo.com or fax 607-723-1567.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MISSOURI
Midwest practice opportunity for candidate with practice experience, PSR 24/36 trained, 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 - 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
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.
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
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SAN DIEGO
Doctor Disabled. Must sell. $16,000 for small well-equipped office. Low overhead. Professional bldg with views. Great weather. Practice focus: Biomechanics, Fungal nail laser (diode), CO2 laser, General Podiatric Medicine. Very good Yelp reviews. Low cost opportunity. Fax your contact info: 858-408-9434
PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTHERN NEW JERSEY
Suburban part-time(2 days a week) practice. established for over 30 years. Relatively young patient base. About 20% Medicare. No Medicaid. contact kaymullen18@gmail.com.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - CONNECTICUT
Well-established, 35-year-old reputable practice/condo with approx 2,500 Square ft. Grossing approximately $450,000. Outside Hartford area. All phases of podiatry. Contact drsch52@hotmail.com
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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