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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 16,926 Podiatrists Daily
February 19, 2015 #5,301  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
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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Are you ready for ICD-10? |
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| FROM PM's CURRENT ISSUE | |
Editor's note: We've added a new feature to PM News. Twice a week, we will post an entire article from a recent issue of our partner Podiatry Management Magazine. Please note that the views expressed in Podiatry Management Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of PM News or Barry Block.
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Today's featured article |
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
PA Podiatrist Discusses Benefits of Foot Massages
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Dr. Maasi Smith |
Apart from being a thoughly relaxing experience, a foot massage can be very soothing and you can have smoother softer foot as a result. Dr. Maasi Smith is a podiatrist and author of Feet Naturally: Nature's Guide to Healthy Feet. "Use essential oils, like lavender oil when giving a massage. These oils open the pores and allow the body to relax, as well as the feet," says Smith.
Source: Daytime, WFLA-TV (Tampa, St. Petersburg) [2/14/15]
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Brush Your Teeth on One Leg to Improve Balance: UK Podiatrist
Keeping the bones and muscles in feet and lower legs strong is vital for stability, says Michael O'Neill, a consultant podiatrist at The Princess Margaret Hospital, Windsor. Weak ankles, in particular, are a common cause of trips and falls, he adds. And if you go over on your ankle once, the damaged ligaments (connective tissues that join bones and muscles) often heal in a way which leaves them looser and therefore more prone to further injuries -- and possibly falls.
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Mike O'Neill |
"To strengthen your ankles and ligaments, try standing on one leg for two minutes while brushing your teeth," says O'Neill. "Remember to swap legs halfway through."
Source: Daily Mail [2/17/15]
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| E-HEALTH NEWS | |
FL Senate Health Policy Committee OKs Bill That Sets up a Telehealth Framework
A Senate healthcare panel on Tuesday unanimously gave the nod to a streamlined “telehealth” bill that was supported by the state’s largest physician, nurses and HMO associations. SB 478 is silent on some of the thornier issues surrounding telehealth, including whether there should be reimbursement “parity” for physicians, regardless of whether they treat patients in their office or through the use of technology. It does allow Florida licensed physicians and other healthcare professionals to consult with out-of-state providers, though.
The bill applies to a broad group of healthcare providers, including medical physicians, osteopathic physicians, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, dental hygienists, midwives, speech pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, radiological personnel, respiratory therapists, dietitians, as well as those who provide orthotics, prosthetics, pedorthics, and acupuncture.
Source: Christine Jordan Sexton, saintpetersblog.com [2/17/15]
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| QUERIES (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
Are Telehealth Services Covered Under Medicare?
I recently discovered that I am getting denied payment for Telehealth services in which this particular insurance follows Medicare guidelines. According to the CMS website, the list of practitioners includes physicians, nurse practitioners, etc. but does not mention podiatry. Does Medicare define a podiatrist as being a physician? Does anyone else use Telehealth and have similar problems?
Jon Strong, DPM, Jefferson City, MO
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| QUERIES (NON-CLINICAL) | |
Query: Switching Billing Companies
I am considering changing billing services after 25 years. How difficult is the process? What problems should I expect from the old company? Can two billing services bill for the same doctor at the same time on different claims?
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1A | |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
One product that we have had great success with is made by Blaine Labs and is called "Revitaderm Sweat Stop." It is a concentrated tannic acid soak and seems to work when tea soaks, which also contain tannic acid, are not successful. If the excessive sweat is causing an overgrowth of bacteria leading to foot odor, have the patient wash daily with povidine scrub so long as he or she does not mind temporary discoloration.
That being said, you should determine if there is an underlying medical or emotional cause of the hyperhydrosis. Is the patient experiencing anxiety, causing excessive sweating? If so, refer the patient to a mental health professional. If it's not anxiety, the patient should be referred to a primary care physician and/or endocrinologist to determine if there is a systemic medical problem causing the problem.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1B | |
From: John Hahn, DPM, ND
I have had good success in treating recalcitrant hyperhidrosis utilizing 50 international units of Botox A distributed in a grid fashion on the soles of both feet. The patients have experienced relief for up to 8 to 10 months post-therapy.
John Hahn, DPM, ND, Portland, OR
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM NEWS QUICK POLLS) | |
From: Carl Solomon, DPM
Dr. Musser raises an interesting point regarding the analogy between our administering CDFEs and ophthalmalogists screening diabetic patients for retinopathy. It's an issue that I don't know has ever been completely explained. I posted the same question 2/13/12 on the Codingline forum and was told that a chief complaint must be present for reimbursement (I assume because it's a component of an E/M). So, if a CDFE is done for the sole reason that the patient is diabetic (it would have to be an E/M service), we're being told that it's a "screening exam" and not covered.
But it's commonplace for ophthalmologists to screen for retinopathy and get paid for it. When I asked my ophthalmologist how he does it, he told me it's customary to use an ICD-9 code for diabetes (not necessarily with complications and even in the absence of an eye complaint) along with the appropriate level of E/M service.
So, unless our foot patient receives the CDFE as part of a visit during which there's a different "chief complaint", how is it possible to do that exam annually, unless we do it for free?
Carl Solomon, DPM, Dallas TX
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) | |
From: Jon Hultman, DPM, MBA
Keith Greer is not the only one with that opinion. On November 8, 2014, J. Kevin West, an attorney who defends DPM coding and billing audits, spoke on that same topic at the APMA CAC/PIAC meeting in Washington DC. One of his opening slides read as follows: “KEY FACT: Podiatry has been, and continues to be, a highly audited medical specialty.” Since legal action is not a viable option, a strategy the California Podiatric Medical Association is considering is the building of a more representative podiatric database.
Payers claim they compare physicians’ billing practices with peers of the same specialty, but there is a huge variation amongst DPMs in terms of practice focus. This makes the comparison of any individual DPM with the “average” subject to a wide margin of statistical error – errors that can lead payers to incorrect conclusions.
Jon Hultman, DPM, MBA, Los Angeles, CA
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Celebrity Shoe of the Day
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Autographed shoes worn by Meryl Streep |
Here ia an autographed pair of shoes worn by Meryl Streep in the 2006 movie The Devil Wears Prada.
Source: Hartley Miltchin, DPM, Toronto, Canada
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
EQUIPMENT WANTED – LOS ANGELES AREA
Looking to buy podiatry equipment in Greater Los Angeles Area. Please contact me if you have extra podiatry chairs sitting in your garage and get rid of all the podiatry related equipment and make some extra money. Need pictures and price. scfootnankle@gmail.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 – 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
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
PRACTICE FOR SALE - MARYLAND
Well established, turn-key busy podiatry practice with accredited hospital-grade ASC is available for sale. Situated in a full service medical building located in a very desirable and convenient area of Northwest Baltimore County. Strong referral base and modern facility with EMR, digital x-rays, hi-def ultrasound and muti-use laser equipped. A great opportunity for a group to expand services into this area or for a very motivated and well trained individual. For more information contact Mr. Jesse Delanoy, attorney representative c/o Offit/Kurman Law Group: jDelanoy@offitkurman.com or at his office 301-575-0301.
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
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
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.
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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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RE: (Topic)
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- Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.
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