The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

February 16, 2010 #3,781 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2010- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

Evans Receives Distinguished Podiatric Leadership Award From BUSPM

Dr. Chet Evans, vice president for medical education and program development at The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) Bradenton recently received the Podiatric Leadership Award from Barry University. Winners of the Leadership Award are honored for distinguished leadership in the field of podiatric medicine at the state and national levels.

Dr. Chet Evans

Prior to joining LECOM Bradenton, Dr. Evans served as vice president for medical affairs, dean and professor of surgery at Barry University’s School of Podiatric Medicine. He is chairman of the Florida Governor’s Diabetes Advisory Council, and is a member of the state’s Tobacco Advisory Council.

SC Podiatrist Raises First Amendment Concern

On March 1, several community members plan to address the Henderson County Board of Commissioners about its use of prayer advocating certain beliefs before meetings. Several residents in the community, as well as religious leaders, expressed reservations about the county's practice of advocating certain beliefs. They were concerned about religious intolerance and advocating Christianity.

Dr. Sheldon Marne

Dr. Sheldon Marne, a local podiatrist, is one of the most vocal. He moved to Henderson County nearly two decades ago and has often fought for separation of church and state. A practicing Jew, Marne does not want commissioners invoking Jesus' name during the invocation. "The First Amendment is very clear that government cannot back a particular religion," Marne said.

Source: John Harbin and James Shea  Henderson Times-News [2/14/10]

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

Bret Ribotsky: Dr. Ira Baum from Miami recently wrote in PM News about his concerns that the colleges are self-serving and that the issue might not be the quality of the education but it may be the institutions themselves. Your comments?

Dr. Lawrence Harkless

Lawrence Harkless: From what I have seen in our profession since being Dean of WesternU School of Podiatry, I would probably agree with Dr. Baum to a certain degree. This is because when I was a residency director, I was not directly involved at the level that I am now. I would say that I am not sure that we are all working together as a profession. To me, the biggest threat to the profession is the lack of qualified applicants. Until we come together as a profession and have a strategic plan on how we are going to change that, things will never change. 
 

Dr. Thomas V. Melillo

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday Night at 9 PM (EST). This week's show features Thomas V. Melillo, DPM, President of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and inductee in the PM Podiatric Hall of Fame. You can register for this event  by clicking here

Making Up for E-mail's Lack of Non-Verbal Cues

Verbal communication comprises three elements—words, voice tone, and body language—and those elements do not contribute equally to the meaning. In fact, only 7% of your message’s meaning comes from the words you use. While people derive 38% of your meaning through your voice tone, a staggering 55% of your words’ meaning comes from the body language you use while making your statement. Given those numbers, it is easy to see why e-mail messages cause so much confusion and misunderstanding in the modern workplace.

Take heart: Despite its drawbacks, e-mail is an extremely valuable and effective tool for business communication. You just need to work a little harder when sending messages via e-mail, to make up for the 93% of communication elements your electronic message lacks.

Self-defense: Use unambiguous language, make your meaning clear, and eliminate unnecessary details, or include them as a separate attachment. Long-winded messages defeat e-mail’s instantaneous appeal anyway.

Tip: Read important e-mails carefully before sending them. Analyze the meaning that recipients could take from your words. If you can see any ambiguity, you can be certain the recipients will too, so rework your message until it’s clear.

Source: Adapted from “E-Mail Writing: ‘They’ll Know What I Mean’ Just Doesn’t Cut It,” Via Communication Briefings

Query: Surgical Options for HAV in 16 Year Old

My patient is a healthy 16 year old very active male with progressive painful bunions, flatfeet. He has semi-rigid hallux abducto valgus, tracking ROM. He currently utilizes orthotics.

Weight-bearing X-Rays of 16 Year old

I am interested in surgical options (note: short 1st met on x-ray).

Richard Frost, DPM, Spokane, WA

Query: How Long to Keep Charts

How long are we required to keep old charts? Does anyone have an economic solution for where to keep them (There's no more room in my attic).
 
Barry Finkelstein, DPM, Bronx, NY

Editor’s comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. Most practice management experts believe that seven (7) years is the appropriate time to maintain medical records. This time period generally covers most auditing periods and statutes of limitation (SOL). Charts of minors need to be held until the patient is at least age 18 plus the applicable SOL in your state.

Perhaps, the best way to reduce your paper storage problem is to implement electronic health records (EHR). If you do this in the next year or two, you’ll also benefit up to $44,000 from the stimulus bill. 

RE: Financial Impact of Pre-Fabs (Michael McCormick, DPM)
From: David Helfman, DPM, Michael Lawrence, DPM

I know everyone can give you different opinions regarding pre-fabricated orthotics and their use in the clinic. Our group has been using pre-fabs very effectively as an adjunct to custom orthotics. It's not a bad practice protocol to dispense a pre-fab after you cast or scan your patient for orthotics. I give the patients a pre-fab and inform them that they can use the pre-fab even after they receive their custom devices. I still think it's important to stress the importance of orthotic devices and I don't think your volume will diminish. Patients like to have a couple of pairs of devices for different shoes, and it's a less costly process for them to buy a couple of pre-fabs, say for dress shoes, and use their customs in their walking or tennis shoes.

I believe that the biggest risk is that the patient comes back saying the $60.00 pre-fabricated orthotic works better than the custom orthotic. I have seen this and it's important that you are prepared to handle this question. Pre-fabs work great and wear out on average every 3-6 months, depending on patient activity levels. Therefore, they will come back and continue to buy them frequently, which is not a bad practice management process.
 
David Helfman, DPM, Atlanta, GA, dhelf18809@aol.com

There was a time, not that long ago, where I wouldn't have had anything called a "pre-fabricated orthotic" in my office. In fact, I thought the term to be an oxymoron, that any orthotic was, by definition, custom. Well, either I was wrong or times have changed or probably some of both, and I have utilized pre-fabs for years now. There is no reason they should not be profitable. There did come a time that I realized that many patients just could not or would not afford custom orthotics, and without giving them an affordable option, they spent money on pretty much junk at the local WhateverMart. When that happened, we made nothing and they wasted their money elsewhere. Certainly not what I wanted in treating patients!

One of the most important features of the devices you dispense, just below quality and perhaps the ability to easily modify or "customize", is that they are truly a professional product not sold at retail down the street! Many companies that market to podiatry make a claim that they only sell to healthcare professionals to dispense to patients, but it just isn't true.  And they are some of the most recognizable ones doing business with our profession. If a patient finds out they can buy the same thing at retail, usually at less cost, most will do so and resent you for charging more.

Michael Lawrence, DPM, Chattanooga, TN, ftdoc@joimail.com

RE: Taxation PICA Demutualization Proceeds
From: Elliot M. Gitlitz, DPM

I have noted a controversy regarding the taxation of the proceeds of  PICA’s demutualization. I have seen comments stating it is to be treated as ordinary income, fully taxable at the marginal income tax rate. I have seen other comments that it is to be taxed as a capital gain since the PICA ownership had been held for over a one-year holding period and so lower capital gain rates should apply.

To help end this confusion, below is research showing a recent court ruling against the IRS regarding taxation of insurance company demutualization proceeds. In this case, the cost basis seems to be the value of the shares on the date of distribution to the former shareholders, so in essence, the cost basis equals the proceeds and the net capital gain is zero, so no tax is due!

Reference: US Court pf Federal Claims No 04-1762t Filed August 6, 2008 Eugene A. Fischer, Trustee Seymour P. Nagan irrevocable trust vs US

The law group for the plaintiffs advises paying tax and immediately filing an amended form requesting a full refund of the tax just paid. They also ask for a 1/3 contingency for assisting in the refund.  Other tax sites state either to pay the tax and file the amended form by using your usual tax preparer, and still others advise not paying the tax and waiting for the results of the IRS as the IRS is stating it will appeal the case.  I do not see my tax attorney until early March and am now just forwarding him the relevant documents.

Elliot M. Gitlitz, DPM, Astoria, NY, egitlitz@qlimg.com

RE: The Loss of A Friend, Gary Jolly, DPM
 
Gary Jolly was an outstanding teacher to so many in our profession.  He inspired all to do well. As a colleague practicing in the Norwalk-Darien, CT area, I first met Gary in the mid-1970's. He had joined a nearby practice in Danbury before extending his main practice to New Britain. We had a great deal of interchange with patients and I can honestly say not all podiatric surgeons were as radical as Gary. I give him the utmost credit and respect for it.  We would often talk at meetings about how restrictive our practice act in CT held back our ability to use our training. 

One time, I called Gary and asked him to meet me at the World Conference held in Boston in 2004 to discuss a change in the practice act to include ankle surgery. His reply was, "sounds great, but a difficult situation." I told him that podiatry has made a name for itself with a great number of legislative friends. After our meeting, Gary was very excited and said he would introduce the idea to Joe Treadwell, DPM, who would later lead the legislative committee with a great deal of perseverance to finalize the new ankle law.

With a great deal of hard work and testifying with Gary and many others before the health committee, the CT podiatrists received the new ankle law. What a smile on Gary's face! That is exactly how I want to remember my friend. 

Robert F. Weiss, DPM, Darien, CT

ASSOCIATE POSITION -  MICHIGAN - (OAKLAND COUNTY)

outstanding opportunity for associate in well established practice, general & surgical podiatry forefoot, rearfoot & ankle (full or part-time). Well-trained, responsible, motivated with good communication skills, ABPS qualified or better. Send CV & letter of interest to: PodiatristWanted@AOL.COM

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Practice and building for sale. Two locations each with 3 exam rooms, x-ray room, large waiting room, and ample parking. Excellent locations and growth potential. All equipment and furniture included. Seller happy to discuss extensive financial and professional information.  Priced to sell. Call 931-446-5724 after 5PM CST.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

Hospital clinic practice with a large volume of all patient types. In need of 1-2 podiatrists, willing to work as a team and make a career in Indianapolis. One - two year residency training can be medical or surgical. Excellent income and ownership possible. Curriculum vitae to twz1001@sbcglobal.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND/D.C AREA

We are looking for an energetic and well-trained podiatrist to join our rapidly growing group; we have offices in Maryland and D.C and are in need of someone who is hard-working and growth-oriented. This candidate must be a graduate of a PM&S 36 residency program or have the equivalent in practice experience. We are looking for the person that wants to make this area their home and become an integral part of our group. If interested, e-mail your CV and cover letter to washingtonpod@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN VIRGINIA/DC SUBURB

Excellent associate practice opportunity leading to partnership for PSR 24-36 foot and ankle surgically-trained physician. Currently 4-doctor/2 office practice in fast-growing area, expanding to 5 doctors. Hard working, personable, highly-motivated individuals needed. Great opportunity with excellent salary and benefits. No nursing homes. Top hospitals. Fax CV with references to 703-491-9994

SPACE AVAILABLE With MRI– NYC/LI

Turn-key office space, East 60th and 22nd St. Manhattan and Plainview, Long Island. Available extremity M.R.I and dynamic ultrasound (East 60th St Manhattan and Plainview, LI). Tests are run by DPM and read by board-certified radiologist. Call for rental agreement. Satisfies Stark laws (516) 476-1815.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - W FLORIDA, BEACHES

Well established podiatry practice with excellent mix office/surgery seeking full time associate PSR 12-36. Excellent salary & benefits for the right hardworking, personable candidate. Email resume to capecoralpodiatry@live.com or fax to 239-573-9201

OFFICE SPACE TO SHARE - NYC

Wanted- Licensed podiatrist to share space in a State-Of-The-Art medical office in the midtown area. Please call Dr. Robert Singer (212) 921-5775 or e-mail dr.roberth.singer62@netzero.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTHWEST CHICAGO SUBURBS

17 year-old surgical practice for sale. Practice sees a wide variety of foot and ankle pathology and is largely referral especially regarding surgical patients. Two offices fully equipped. Lease or purchase of office condo also possible. Doctor willing to stay Please email inquiries to crystallakefootandankle@live.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - FLORIDA—CENTRAL/SOUTH

Turn-key operation grossing $570,000 annually based on one full-time doctor. Great opportunity for growing the top-line. Surgery is only 14% of the professional man-hours; it can significantly increase income. Medicare makes up 64% of revenues. Seller will assist with transition. Call 863-688-1725, ask for Chas.

ASSOCIATE POSITION FULL-TIME - SUBURBS OF CHICAGO

PSR 36 - month-trained podiatrist needed for busy suburban Chicago practice. Full benefit package included. If interested, please email your curriculum vitae to foot1st@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION-INLAND EMPIRE, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Associate needed full or part-time for multi office practice. Must be ABPS BC/BQ. Hard working, ethical individual who is looking to a possible partnership opportunity. Looking for current licensed or resident completing program this spring. Email CV to bkatzman2@earthlink.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION – CINCINNATI, OHIO

This is your once in a lifetime opportunity to join one of the most successful practices in the United States. We do not have a seniority system. If you are motivated and have completed a PSR 24-36 residency, your income is limited only by your enthusiasm and desire to achieve. Email resume to khart@cincinnatifootcare.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

Associate needed to join a multi-office podiatry practice in the Baltimore MD Region. Desired candidate should be surgically trained with Board Eligible / Certification. You must be hard-working, ethical, compassionate and confident in your abilities to deal with pathology, patients, staff and fellow physicians. Patient base is already established. Excellent income and growth potential for the right associate. Please forward a cover letter and resume and availability to FootDocMaryland@Gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NEW YORK

Dr. Mark Levine's Office in Middle Village, Queens, NY. Dr. Levine passed on several weeks ago BUT practice has been covered and is being actively manned. Call cousin Art Korbel, DPM, MD who is handling the sale, for details. 954 753 7621 or classicboats4425@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY, NY

Do you enjoy teaching residents and being in the O.R.? We are seeking a well-trained foot surgeon. Experienced foot surgeons or new graduates with excellent training considered. We are an expanding multi-office group practice with a great group of doctors, located in the scenic Hudson Valley. We also have a Wound Center and Residency Program affiliated with this special opportunity. Please forward CV to: healthyfeet4ever@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MONTANA

Great opportunity for a PSR 24 or 36 residency trained individual to join a dynamic two doctor group with physical therapy. Needs good FF surgical skills, RF a bonus. Beautiful office and great area of the country for outdoor recreation-minded individuals. Opportunity for partnership after employment. Please reply to: jclough@bridgemail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO AREA

Join one of the most successful, long-established podiatry practices in the Chicago area, with excellent salary and benefits. We have an immediate opening for a full-time podiatrist in a multi practice location in Chicago. Must have two years of surgical residency. Please e-mail resume to f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MASSACHUSSETTS

Full-time/Part-time podiatrist needed for a busy nursing home practice. Please send inquiries to debbierobertsm4@hotmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – MISSOURI

Expanding multi-location practice seeks motivated individual to contribute to growth. Practice enjoys strong reputation and name recognition. Prefer candidates with interest in partnership opportunity. Established locations available for PSR 24+ and includes incentive comp with benefits/coverage. Please send CV to jmurray@foothealers.com or call John Murray at 314.842.3875

ASSOCIATE POSITION – ILLINOIS

Quality Podiatry Group provides quality services to residents at long term care facilities. We are currently offering full-time or part-time positions for motivated ethical podiatrists. Immediate openings are available. If interested, fax curriculum vitae to 847-674-2113 or e-mail to feetwork@aol.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,000 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 12,000 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451

• To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
• Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
• Notes must be in the following form:
  RE: (Topic)
  From: (your name, DPM)
  Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
  Your name, DPM City/State
• Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.