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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,716 Podiatrists Daily
February 17, 2014 #4,990  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 |
Quick Poll
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In the past year, have you been asked to return money to insurance companies for procedures deemed investigational or experimental ? |
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Results of Last Week's Poll |
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| PODIATRISTS ANDTHE MEDIA | |
KS Podiatrist 'On Call' for PBS Show
Dr. Scott Gordon will appear as a guest healthcare provider on the Smoky Hill Public Television award-winning show, Doctors on Call. Dr. Gordon is a podiatrist at the South Central Kansas Bone and Joint Center. The 30-minute program will air at 7 p.m. Feb. 18 on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) channel.
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Dr. Scott Gordon |
Gordon came to Pratt and the South Central Kansas Bone and Joint Center in 2013 from Alamogordo, NM where he completed a year-long fellowship in lower extremity trauma and reconstruction. He attended podiatric medical school in Glendale, AZ, where he graduated with honors. He then completed three years of surgical residency training at the Carl T Hayden Veterans Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, where he served as chief resident.
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 1 | |
IA Podiatrists to Compete in Dancing With Stars Fundraiser
We're revealing the three couples that will compete in this year's Dancing with the Siouxland Stars contest as part of St. Luke's Spirit of Women's Day of Dance. The team from UnityPoint – St. Luke's, Doctors Valerie Tallerico and Kosta Antonopoulos are not only married, but they're both podiatrists! That'll make for some fancy footwork.
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Drs. Valerie Tallerico and Kosta Antonopoulos |
Source: KCAU-TV [2/14/14]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 2 | |
PA Podiatrist to Represent The National Kidney Foundation in DC
Jay Schnitzer, DPM has been chosen to represent The National Kidney Foundation as a representative at the National Kidney Summit in Washington, DC on March 3-5th. He will testify and meet Congressmen and others at the summit in order to explain and elucidate the need for continued support for patients with chronic kidney disease.
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Dr. Jay Schnitzer |
Schnitzer, a practicing podiatrist in Bucks County Pennsylvania, has been a kidney transplant patient since 2009 and has been an advocate for organ transplant and education for kidney disease with dialysis patients and transplants. He has been a board member of The Gift of life in Philadelphia, as well as a board member of The National Kidney Foundation of Delaware Valley, and was named Man of the Year by The National Kidney Foundation of Delaware Valley in 2011.
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Non-Healing Wound S/P Neuroma Surgery
A 49 year old female patient, 5'10" 210 lbs presented with a painful second hammertoe and metatarsal head as well as Morton’s neuroma on her left foot. PMH: hypothyroidism, no history of smoking. She underwent surgery with some post-surgical seroma; otherwise, it was unremarkable. Two days before Christmas, there was a dehiscence of the neuroma incision with a wound 1.4cm L x 0.7 cm W x 0.6cm D. The wound bed has minimal evidence of granulation tissue. Treatment consisted of cleaning the wound and debriding the edges to freshen up the rolled edges, Arobella Qoustic debridement, NPWT, Medihoney, ACell Topical Collagen, and Apligraf applications (twice.)
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Non-Healing Wound S/P Neuroma Surgery |
The wound still looks very similar to its initial presentation with little to no granulation tissue. X-rays are unremarkable. We plan on redrawing labs and performing an MRI. I am asking the community about their experience and advice treating a post-surgical dehiscence that has seemingly failed to respond to local wound care.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1A | |
From: Lawrence M. Rubin, DPM
Paying 100% for the first procedure and 50% or less for subsequent procedures started back in 1995 with Medicare's adoption of the Resource Based Relative Value System (RBRVS). I was a consultant to Medicare Part B in Illinois at the time. Reducing the value of the work effort when multiple procedures are performed was based on a study performed by the research team that developed the RBRVS. Other insurers quickly adopted the same or similar reduction formulas in their plans.There was a great deal of opposition to this by surgeons in all disciplines, but Medicare stood fast as did many other insurers.
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Codes for Podiatric Medicine and More! 2013/2014 (26th Edition)
Make the transition this year with minimal stress and ultimate convenience.
This two-volume set contains podiatric medicine specific ICD-9-CM, ICD-10-CM (cross-referenced), E/M, HCPCS, CPT, E/M, E, and V codes, modifiers, guidelines for wound care, diabetic foot care, the Medicare Diabetes Shoe Program, and more.
Telephone and email support is provided at no additional cost for help with your tough coding questions.
Accept no substitutes. My publication is the one that you hear about. Join the thousands of satisfied podiatrists using my coding manuals for over 25 years. Available for immediate shipping!
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL)- PART 1B | |
From: Harry A. Harbison, DPM
Dr. Bregman bemoans the "accepted" (by third-party payors) multiple surgery reductions and calls for action, to which I applaud. He fails to mention the other ridiculous insult to all surgeons, that of the "Global Period" (often 90 days). Although general surgeons may see an uncomplcated appendectomy once post-op (for staple removal), try that on a hospitalized Charcot reconstruction external frame patient!
The concept of surgical and post-surgical care bundled together in light of continued surgical fee reductions is absurd but continues. I suggest action against the root of the problem, that being the Medicare fee schedule and the governing rules to which most large insurers now scale. Unfortunately, organized medicine has a very poor record for these issues. Have we heard of the "SGR"?
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL)- PART 2 | |
From: Ira Baum, DPM
1. Is this normal practice and reimbursement for hospitals? Absolutely and it is not uncommon.
2. Are all physicians (orthopedists vs. podiatrists) paid the same? Absolutely not. I think I recall an equal pay for equal service bill that was presented in Maryland. I don’t know if there are any states that have passed that law. If they have, would the podiatrists speak up and tell us if they’re getting paid the same amount for the same services provided by an orthopedist (with the exception of those podiatrists who are associated with orthopedic groups and bill under an orthopedic group #)?
3. What can be done to ensure a reasonable fee-for-service? This inequity has festered for many years. Nothing has been done and, in all likelihood, nothing will be done unless podiatrists, colleges of podiatric medicine, state and national associations group together to fight this in court or legislatively. We have a couple of state and national legislatures; let’s see what they come up with.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 3 | |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Dr. Rizzo questions why snow removal workers will get raises when doctors' reimbursements are constantly being cut. In a sense, Dr. Rizzo answered his own question when he said physicians are willing to accept it. Sanitation and other municipal workers are unionized and join together to fight for higher wages. If they don't get paid enough, they will strike. Most physicians are independent business people who are in competition with each other and are willing to accept whatever insurance companies or government agencies are willing to dole out.
If an insurance company decides tomorrow to cut what they pay by another 10 or 20 percent, we might not like it, but there are plenty of us who will be willing to accept whatever they give. Unfortunately, neither I nor Dr. Rizzo can change this. If there is ever a single-party payer and all physicians become municipal or government employees, only then will doctors band together, threaten to strike, and get due financial recognition.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM JURY VERDICT REPORTER) - PART 1A | |
From: Robert Scott Steinberg
Dr. Silhanek, the answer is simple. It's about profit. Experts don't seem to care about what is proper or ethical. Appearance is everything. You nailed the issue. These overly willing plaintiffs' experts are unethical. As for the colleges' ethics, why else would colleges be admitting more students than there are residency slots for? It seems that some of the colleges have become money mills.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM JURY VERDICT REPORTER) - PART 1B | |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Dr. Silhankek raises an age-old complaint that many of us have against physicians ready and willing to testify against their colleagues in medical malpractice cases. As he pointed out in this most recent case, the plaintiff's experts are esteemed faculty members of a podiatric medical college. You can bet that their credentials were used in court to give credence to the plaintiff's case.
There are, however, two sides to this discussion. On one hand, it is troubling when a respected colleague testifies against one of his or her peers in an effort to bolster a frivolous lawsuit. On the other hand, there are some very bad mistakes that occur daily in both doctors' offices and in hospitals. Patients who suffer harm, as a result of blatant medical negligence, deserve their day in court and are entitled to expert representation.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WISCONSIN
Experienced podiatric physician and surgeon seeking a motivated associate with the ability and drive to join a multi-faceted, exceptionally busy, and firmly established Midwestern practice located within driving distance of Chicago. Those who apply need be well-rounded yet humble and willing to provide all types of foot and ankle care, from diabetic and neuropathic treatments and biomechanical exams, to minor office procedures and complex surgical corrections. Please send your CV along with a cover letter describing your treatment style along with your desire to grow with a successful practice to Associatematch@yahoo.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@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 – 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 - 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 – OH
Join our thriving practice of 3 podiatrists in the fastest growing county in Ohio (Delaware located north of Columbus). We are looking for a motivated, personable, caring doctor with solid training who wants to work in a positive environment and enjoys our profession every day! Contactfootandanklewellnesscenter@gmail.com
HOUSE CALL OPPORTUNITY - CHICAGO, IL
Chicago-America’s Disabled, a not-for-profit medical group is looking for a podiatrist. You decide when you want to work and we will prepare your schedule. Competitive Compensation ($500-$1000 a day). Send CV todberliant@totalhealthcaregrp.com or call 773-774-7300.
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 - SOUTHERN MICHIGAN
Associate wanted for rapidly growing multi-physician practice. Salary plus incentive. Great opportunity for right person. Must have good work ethic and no ego. Send CV and contact information to:PaulaPMAC@me.com
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 - 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 - 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 - WEST TENNESSEE
Operate A Successful Podiatry Clinic in the Heart of West Tennessee. Successful, well established multi-location clinic is seeking a podiatrist to operate one of the West Tennessee clinics. This unique opportunity provides an entrepreneur like atmosphere, with the support of a large practice. Full scope practice including foot and ankle surgery, wound care, and DME. Hospital and surgery center privileges available. Competitive compensation package including salary and bonus, with future partnership option. Enjoy the benefits of no state income tax, affordable cost of living, and a beautiful place to live and work. Send letter and CV tofootdrtn@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION CAPITAL DISTRICT
Associate position with option to purchase practice. Upstate NY, Capital District. Applicants require NYS podiatric license and Medicare # ,Board certified or qualified. Position available immediately. Salary negotiable. Send CV and inquiries to: Gopodiatry@gmail.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
PRACTICES FOR SALE - WASHINGTON STATE
Puyallup – South of Seattle. Great practice in perfect location. Oregon: Portland (Tigard) – In Portland suburb with high traffic/great visibility. See more at mpocorp.com or call 386 597-5766
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 are 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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