|
|
|
|
PMNews
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 16,925 Podiatrists Daily
February 18, 2015 #5,300 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2015- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
|
|
PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
|
Are you ready for ICD-10? |
|
|
|
|
STATE PODIATRY NEWS |
FL Podiatrist Appointed to Board of Podiatric Medicine
|
Dr. Joseph Sindone |
Governor Rick Scott appointed Dr. Joseph Sindone to the Board of Podiatric Medicine. He is an assistant professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Division of Foot and Ankle at University of Florida Health. He graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at St. Luke's and Children's Medical Center in Narberth, PA.
Source: Florida Times-Union [2/16/15]
|
|
PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 1 |
Shoes for Sharing Now a Project for Family of IN Podiatrist
Having a dad who’s a podiatrist, Macey Warren knows the importance of wearing good shoes. But she also knows how expensive they can be. Just one pair of new tennis shoes can cost upwards of $50. For a family with several children, buying shoes can become a financial burden. That’s why the Warrens started Shoes for Sharing back in 2001. Originally, Dr. Walt Warren, owner of The Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center and The Fitted Foot in Seymour, spearheaded the project with support from the Indiana Podiatric Medical Association.
|
Dr. Walter Warren |
It was a challenge to foot doctors around the state to collect and distribute free shoes and socks to people in need. Macey, a senior at Seymour High School, and her older sister, Payton, grew up helping their dad. In 2013, Payton took over, and Shoes for Sharing became the responsibility of the Seymour High School National Honor Society. This year, Macey, also a member of the academic organization, stepped up to oversee the project. During the past 14 years, Shoes for Sharing has been successful in providing more than 10,000 pairs of free shoes for people who need them.
Source: January Wetzel, Seymour Tribune [2/15/15]
|
|
PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 2 |
PA Podiatrist Partners with Youth House Shelter for Sock Drive
|
Dr. Lawrence Kalker |
Newtown podiatrist Dr. Lawrence Kalker recently partnered with Valley Youth House Shelter in Warminster for its second annual Holiday Sock Drive. This year, more than 870 brand new pairs of socks were donated by Kalker’s patients as well as community members. Also, more than $300 in monetary donations was raised for the shelter, a facility for runaway, homeless, troubled, abused, and neglected boys and girls ages 12 to 17.
Source: Bucks County Courier Times [2/15/15]
|
|
OUTSIDE INTERESTS |
Temple Podiatry Student Wins Autographed RG III Cast
Rich Bruno probably took Robert Griffin III’s dislocated ankle harder than most Redskins fans did. By Bruno’s recollection, the quarterback’s injury early last season left him on the ground, in the fetal position, sobbing. Bruno — one of the biggest Redskins fans you’re likely to encounter, and a second-year student at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine — felt something different. “All of my loves in life had combined into a singular moment,” he wrote on Facebook. “I squealed like a school girl thinking about how one day, maybe I could be that specialist a player sees.”
|
Rich Bruno, Robert Griffin III with autographed cast |
Many months later, Griffin decided to auction off the now-autographed cast he wore during his recovery, to raise money for his fledgling foundation. last Friday evening, Bruno found himself celebrating in the passenger seat of a car, having just won the auction for one of Washington’s most unique sports mementos. The winning bid was $1,522, a price that will likely require Bruno to liquidate some of his other keepsakes. He has no complaints.
Source: Dan Steinberg, Washington Post [2/16/15]
|
|
QUERIES (CLINICAL) |
Query: Hyperhidrosis
My patient, a 60 year old white female has a severe case of hyperhidrosis that has not responded to my usual treatments: Tea soaks followed by the application of a roll-on deodorant (alum) to dry, and baking soda as well as other topicals. She is also concerned about the odor as her shoes are being affected. I have heard that anticholinergics may be effective, but also has side-effects of dry mouth and dry eyes. I would appreciate any suggestions.
|
|
QUERIES (NON-CLINICAL) |
Query: Source for Hospital-Grade Disinfectant Floor Cleaner
The CDC wants us to use a hospital-grade disinfectant floor cleaner. The podiatry supply places and janitorial supply places do not carry a disinfectant floor cleaner that can be diluted down in the mop pail. We already use a microfiber mop system/technique that CDC recommends. Does anyone know of a source for a hospital-grade disinfectant floor cleaner?
Catherine Yack, DPM, Huntsville, AL
|
|
CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: PQRS #317: Screening for High Blood Pressure
Patients 18 years and older are considered "not eligible" for this measure if they have an active diagnosis of hypertension. So, if a patient has a diagnosis of hypertension AND has a pre-hypertensive or hypertensive blood pressure reading (systolic > or = 120 OR diastolic > or = 80) at their visit, they would be coded as G8951 ("pre-hypertensive or hypertensive blood pressure reading documented, indicated follow-up NOT documented, patient NOT eligible"). But if the patient has a diagnosis of hypertension and their blood pressure is controlled on medication resulting in a normal blood pressure (systolic <120 AND diastolic <80), which code would be used: G8783: "Normal blood pressure reading documented, follow-up NOT required" or G8784: "Blood pressure reading NOT documented, patient NOT eligible"?
Nancy Hayata, DPM, Huntington Beach, CA
Response: If a patient has an active diagnosis of hypertension, you report the G8784 no matter what their blood pressure reading is when taken. Technically, you do not have to take their blood pressure since this is a screening for high blood pressure measure, but for good medical care, it makes sense to take their blood pressure if they have an active diagnosis of hypertension and advise them to follow up with the provider treating their blood pressure if it is elevated. Either way, you report G8784 and this is excluded from calculating your performance on the measure but meets the reporting requirement.
Jim Christina, DPM, Bethesda, MD
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
|
Available Immediately!!
The New, Revised, More Inclusive, Updated, 2015 Podiatry Coding Manual
From Michael G. Warshaw, DPM, CPC
It has been fully updated for excellent readability, reference and completeness. There is an added section on ICD-10 preparation. It is the highest of quality and podiatry information to aid in coding and billing for appropriate reimbursement and documentation to support what was billed. You will see why so many podiatry offices across the country refer to this book as their “Bible” when it comes to billing, coding, and documentation. NOW INCLUDES AN ICD-9 TO ICD-10 CROSSWALK FOR THE MOST COMMON DIAGNOSES IN PODIATRY!!!
Only $125.00 including shipping!!!
Available in Book, CD, and Flash Drive Formats
No credit card? No problem. Just mail a check or money order to:
Drmikethecoder 3306 Ashby Lane Richfield, OH 44286
|
|
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) |
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM
"Bret Ribotsky: DPMs are audited at a higher frequency than other physicians. Is there something that each of us should add to our notes that may help assist us if we get audited?"
This is a quote taken from PM News. I was wondering if Dr. Ribotsky's quote was based on fact or opinion. If fact, would that not be discriminatory?
Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY
Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. According to the transcript of Meet the Masters, this statement appears to be the opinion of attorney Keith Greer, which was shared by host Bret Ribotsky. Even if the statement is true, it is doubtful that podiatrists would have much legal recourse as podiatrists are not considered a "protected class." This is particularly true because podiatrists have a degree which differs from any other medical specialty.
|
|
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM NEWS QUICK POLLS) |
From: George Jacobson, DPM
In all likelihood, the low figure is probably due to our ongoing relationship with our patients. Many of these patients are seen 4-5 times per year, so we have a good "handle" on any changes to their vascular and neurological status. Podiatrists provide an on-going assessment throughout the year. For reimbursement purposes, one may schedule a specific CDFE, but I feel it is unnecessary in patients I see regularly.
There is a population of diabetic patients who are referred to me for an annual foot exam by their PCP. This appears to be the new standard for them. I send my dictation to the referring doctor which include the following statement: "Patient educated about diabetes and its potential effects. Patient is currently not at a greater risk. Patient to return in one year for annual checkup unless he/she has any problems, difficulties, or questions."
George Jacobson, DPM, Hollywood, FL
|
|
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (ICD-10) |
From: Ira Kraus, DPM
When it comes to ICD-10 conversion systems, there are simple "tools" and then there are true "solutions." The "solutions" not only allow for coding accuracy, but they also allow for optimization of workflow and efficiency, the loss of which is just as expensive as coding inaccuracy leading to rejected claims. The SmartSheet10 Technology (smartsheet10.com) is the only solution that I have seen that integrates into any electronic health record, allows for the creation of provider customized super bills, and through simple clicks, identifies the most specific code by turning it green. It automatically identifies through pop-up alerts when a unique 7th character is needed.
Because it "dual codes" with both ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes and is integrated into your electronic health record, rules can be written to identify whether a specific carrier should receive the ICD-10 or ICD-9 code based on their readiness. All of this makes the SmartSheet10 technology a truly unique solution! While it comes included in the TRAKnet EHR, a monthly subscription can be purchased and integrated into any system.
Disclosure: I am an ICD-10 and coding consultant for NEMO Capital Partners, who own the software.
Ira Kraus, DPM, Chattanooga, TN
|
|
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
|
How the snake was secured for these shoes? |
Source: Iris Schieferstein, Solent News
|
MEETING NOTICES
|
|
|
|
CLASSIFIED ADS |
IMMEDIATE BUYING OPPORTUNITY IN CHICAGO
Well-rounded medical/surgical practice; turn-key operation with ongoing schedule. will consider partnership for right person. Please respond to: chipod12@yahoo.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL
Multilocation (will separate) 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. 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 JOSE, CA
Podiatry and Mani Pedi Spa Practice for sale. Located in the Medical Center with a strong Brand Name and Internet Presence. This cash practice grossed $349,000 with office based Podiatry care plus Manicures, Pedicures, and Skin Care with a fully trained staff. The sale includes a modern office with four treatment rooms, patient’s lists on EMR, web site and a Pinpoint Foot Laser. This is a “turn-key” practice. Ready for full-time expansion. Price to sell $84,000. Email: schrisdpm@sbcglobal.net Website: www.NeatFeetPlus.com
FACULTY POSITION - WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES COLLEGE OF PODIATRY MEDICINE
Western University of Health Sciences College of Podiatric Medicine is seeking podiatrists interested in the education and training of future doctors of podiatric medicine. Applicants must be at least board-qualified in either ABPM or ABFAS with preference for dual board certification. Academic rank will be commensurate with scholarly and clinical credentials. Please send letter of intent, curriculum vitae, 3 references, and salary expectation to Jacqueline Truong, DPM, MPH, at jbtruong@westernu.edu. Western University of Health Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The University embraces diversity and is committed to attracting qualified candidates from historically underrepresented groups.
ASSOCIATE POSITION LEADING TO PARTNERSHIP- NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Well established high volume Podiatric Surgical practice seeking associate to join 4 doctor/2 office opportunity. Excellent salary plus incentives and great benefits. All Board Certified Fellow Podiatric Surgeons highly respected in the medical community. Prefer forefoot and rearfoot reconstructive surgical trained practitioners only. Please email CV and references to medical 622@aol.com. If you are seeking a position in July 2015 when you finish your residency, this is an opportunity you should investigate.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ORANGE COUNTY, CA
We are a group practice based in Irvine (Orange County) California, with a second office in the high desert city of Victorville, California. Currently, there are four doctors in the group and we are ready to bring on a fifth doctor. Both offices are attached to surgicenters. We have a high patient volume and very little C & C. Our compensation is competitive and negotiable. If you are interested in this opportunity, please feel free to reply via email at your convenience. Michael Goddard, DPM Email: mgoddard@cafai.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE - FULL TIME/ PART TIME WISCONSIN
Opportunities to serve residents of long-term care facilities in Madison and Milwaukee Wisconsin. High earning potential with competitive benefits as part of a 40 year old company for the right candidates. Contact ckestner@preferredpodiatry.com for additional information.
PODIATRISTS WANTED FOR NAIL CLINICS – MULTIPLE STATES
Need additional income/patients for your existing practice? We provide Pinpointe FootLaser, training, and patients- you get paid for treating. Needed only in: Baltimore, Honolulu, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Kansas City, San Francisco, San Diego, Ann Arbor/Romulus, Connecticut. We can also work with practices that already own Pinpointe. Contact corporate@lasernailtherapy.com for info.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina's largest provider of foot care is a multi-doctor, multi-location practice currently seeking a highly skilled, personable, and hardworking physician to join our TEAM. South Carolina License is necessary. Salary range $120k-$140k (base + bonus) and benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to:scdpmjobs@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - INDIANAPOLIS METRO NORTHEAST
If you are a talented and well-liked experienced surgeon, resident, or fellow who wants to develop a career in Indiana, we can make it happen. We are looking to expand service lines. If you have the drive to do what it takes, step forward. Change your life. 100-125K+, benefits and malpractice. Send cover letter, CV, and references to john.lloyd@lloydpodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Busy podiatry practices in Southern California with multiple locations, looking for a self-motivated podiatrist with good bedside manner to work full time. Must have a valid DEA, Valid CA license, please e-mail CV and phone number to nobelbilling@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - NORTH GEORGIA/CHATTANOOGA AREA
Busy group practice located in Chattanooga area seeking a growth-oriented individual with a strong work ethic to join our expanding 5 physician TEAM. Must have PM&S 36. Established patient base with tremendous growth opportunity. Associate with partnership potential. Chattanooga offers a strong music and arts culture, unrivaled outdoor amenities, and a government/populace committed to sustainable development. Competitive Salary and benefits. Email cover letter and CV to hr@advfootcare.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – ARIZONA
Immediate opening in suburban Phoenix, Arizona. Compensation is productivity-based with high guaranteed income and patients scheduled from day 1. Partnership opportunity for a highly motivated and entrepreneurial podiatrist. Send CV to: ArizonaFootAnkle@gmail.com
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 16,000 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 16,000 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.
|
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.
| Guidelines |
- 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.
|
|
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
|
|
|
|
|