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PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 9,000 Podiatrists Daily
February 20, 2007 #2,814 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2007- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.
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PRESENT ONLINE BOARD REVIEW
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Call 888 802-6888 or go to our website to learn more and order http://www.podiatry.com
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
WA DPM Provides Tips on Preventing Winter Foot Ailments
Winter chill can be tough on your toes. Not only do you run the risk of developing frostbite, but you could also be prone to trench foot and athlete's foot, experts say. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wet feet lose heat 25 times faster than dry feet. To compensate, the body shuts down peripheral circulation. Less blood circulating to the feet means less oxygen and nutrients, and skin tissue begins to die, a condition, which can lead to trench foot.
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Dr. Donald Hovancsek |
Choose shoes that are waterproof and insulated, and be sure to check insulated shoes for leaks before use, advises Dr. Donald Hovancsek of the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Source: PakTribune [2/10/07]
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DR.COMFORT
THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER ….. A LOT BETTER! OUR DISPLAY IS NOW ONLY $99!
One in four Americans will develop foot complications due to their diabetes. It is crucial that professionals recognize their importance in reducing these risks. We can help.
For a limited time only, Dr. Comfort will offer our complete display kit including the attractive display rack, 24 pairs of shoes for sizing and display, a customized Brannock device and the best marketing collateral in the business. All this for only $99, plus shipping!
Dr. Comfort shoes are made from the finest leathers and are scientifically designed for the diabetic foot. Call us now at 800-556-5572 to experience exceptional quality and profitability with our exclusive turn key program for your podiatric practice. Call today and together we can reduce the risks of diabetes. Please visit us on the web at www.drcomfortdpm.com
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PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE |
Baby Boomers Undertake Marathons For the Challenge: MD Podiatrist
A few months ago, podiatrist John Senatore stood near Mile 22 of the Baltimore Marathon, cheering loudly for the runners - quite a few of whom were his patients at Union Memorial Hospital's Sports Medicine Center. He was in New York to encourage his wife, who is running her first marathon at the age of 45.
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Dr. John Senatore |
"People in this age group are looking for a new challenge," says Senatore, 50, himself a former marathoner. "A marathon is a big undertaking. People do marathons for the same reasons they climb mountains and jump out of planes. It challenges them physically, emotionally and intellectually."
Source: Linell Smith, Baltimore Sun, [11/5/06]
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New Stylish, Washable, Elastic Shoes
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Orthofeet is introducing attractive, elastic shoes that are designed for diabetic patients, who need extra protection, but do not want to compromise on appearance.
The new elastic shoes are designed with unique features:
- Non-binding elastic vamp provides a loose fit at the forefoot, and ease pressure on swollen feet, bunions and hammer-toes.
- Firm heel counter offers excellent rearfoot support and stability.
- Washable: The shoes are made of synthetic materials that can be washed in look warm water.
- Four widths, including Women's Extra-Extra-Wide and Men's Narrow.
- Competitive prices- Shoes: $4200; Prefab inserts: $895; Custom inserts: $2200
For more information call 800-524-2845 or visit our website: www.orthofeet.com
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MEDICARE NEWS |
Bush Budget Cutting Medicare Physician Payments Opposed by Democrats
President Bush presented an austere fiscal year 2008 budget to Congress earlier this month, pledging no new money for Medicare physician reimbursements and proposing to slash the rate of public health program growth in other areas.
The administration's decision not to call for any funding to help reverse Medicare physician pay cuts prompted strong criticism from physician organizations, including the AMA and the American College of Physicians. If no changes are made, doctors could see an across-the-board cut of 10% or more next calendar year.
Bush's $2.8 trillion budget proposal is not binding on Congress. Democratic leaders, who will largely control the agenda this year, immediately announced that some of the proposed health program reductions were essentially dead on arrival.
Source: David Glendinning and Doug Trapp, AMNews [2/26/07]
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MEETINGS / COURSES
Successful Conference Extended into 2007?
In the fall of 2006, ACFAOM launched its Clinical Encounter Series on Heel Pain. As a result of its success, ACFAOM has agreed to extend these conferences into 2007. Two locations are offered: • May 12 at Temple University College of Podiatric Medicine; • June 29 at the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport.
Early Bird ACFAOM Member registration fee - $175 by May 4 – students & residents are free. Recognized national faculty will engaged participants in a dynamic exchange of ideas and hands-on workshops – 8 CE contact hours. Mark your calendar and register now at http://www.acfaom.org/heelpain.shtml
For a list of all meetings go to: www.podiatrym.com/meetings.pdf
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QUERIES |
Query: Power Naps
Everyone it seems, is sleep-deprived these days - - taking its toll on productivity and one's sense of well-being. Does anyone engage in Power Naps (20-minute rest periods) during the day and/or allow staff members to do so? The benefits are many and (as just reported) reduce the chance of heart attacks by one-third.
Bob Levoy, Great Neck, NY
Query: Dox Podiatry EMR
I'd like some feedback about Dox Podiatry EMR from anyone who currently utilizes this service. Aside from basic monthly payments for EMR software, what are the additional monthly costs (in dollar amounts) that those using EMR are experiencing? Lori Weisenfeld, DPM, New York, NY
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FREE YOUR SOLE
NALFON(tm) 200 (fenoprofen calcium 200mg capsules).
Pedinol Pharmacal Inc. introduces Nalfon(tm) 200: * Rapid pain relief * Non-selective NSAID with over 25 years of clinical experience in the U.S. * Possesses both analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties * Generally well tolerated * Rx only Nalfon(tm) 200 is available in 200mg capsules. For full prescribing information on Nalfon(tm) 200 go to http://www.nalfon200.comNalfon(tm) 200. Foot pain doesn't wait. Why should relief?
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RESPONSES / COMMENTS |
RE: APMA State Leader as an Expert Witness (Name Withheld) From: Multiple Respondents
Even though a malpractice case is "minor" in terms of egregiousness, involving little or no alleged patient disability or damages, it is still a "big deal" to the podiatrist going through it. Whenever you have a case against you that requires notification of your liability carrier and starting a process of defense, this goes permanently against your underwriting record. Under some circumstances it could result in the suspension of surcharges, suspension of coverage or worse.
As the editor stated, it is important that you notify your state president and board that the present board member is testifying for the patient against you. It is also appropriate in my opinion to notify the State Podiatric Medical Practice Board that you regard this as an official "conflict of interest."
Your recommendations should be as follows: Either the involved podiatrist resigns his/her status as a State Board Member, or withdraws from serving as the plaintiff’s expert. The two positions are incompatible. You have every right and obligation to present this to your State Practice Board, and request they enforce this issue.
In order to take additional legal actions, you will have to hire your own private attorney. This constitutes one of the primary reasons why it is sometimes essential to hire another attorney on your own, who will be "overseeing" your case and protecting your interests. This also sends a message to your insurance companies' attorney that their actions will be closely monitored.
Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM, San Jose, CA, ROSEY1@prodigy.net
In Maryland, the State Board had agreed that no member, while serving, may be a witness in a malpractice case, nor offer any advice as an expert on a case that involves a Maryland-licensed podiatrist. I am not sure if they have changed that policy since I left the Board two years ago, but I do not think they have.
Brian Kashan, DPM, Baltimore, MD, drbkas@worldnet.att.net
I am a past state president. I serve as an expert witness, but only for the defense. I do that for my personal comfort level. If the defendant violated community standards/standard practice, I do not hold back, but rather identify the failure to the defendant's attorney, so that they can deal with it. Do you really want to eliminate former president's and board members from serving in this capacity?
Jay Goldstein, DPM, Portland, OR, jcgdome@hotmail.com
In the editor's note to answer the query by "name witheld" regarding the fairness of an APMA State leader serving as a plaintiff's expert witness, Dr. Block states that such individuals carry into court the imprimateur (countenance) of the association. This he comments is "unfair." Does the Academic Dean of a Podiatry School bring anything into court that can be judged "unfair" just because of his or her position? What about the Chief of Podiatry at Yale University Medical Center?
Who then can we call who has no unfairness attached to him or her? I know, how about 1-800-NoChargeFootSurgery? That person might not bring into court any unfairness. This conversation hinges on two facts....all plaintiffs experts are perceived as scum, and if the APMA leader that "name withheld" refers to were on the defense side of the table, his post would never have been written. Everyone, including the jurors, judge, and counselors walk into court with conflicts, prejudices, and a mountain full of "unfairness." The credibility of the profession is harmed by everyone with a meaningful credential who limits their "service" to either the plaintiff or the defense. If New York State Podiatric Medical Association adopts the resolution that all board members past and present cannot do any expert testimony, an already slimy system will ooze ever thicker green.
Bryan C. Markinson, DPM, New York, NY, Bryan.Markinson@msnyuhealth.org
Editor’s comment: Dr. Markinson can relax. Even excluding state association leaders, there are thousands of very qualified podiatrists who are capable as serving as expert witnesses for both the plaintiff and defense. In fact, a podiatrist who serves as the chief of surgery at a hospital is an excellent choice for an expert (unless the case involves a member of his/her staff).
Ethically, such as expert is far different from a podiatrist holding an elected position of a state association or employed by a college of podiatric medicine. First of all, from a technical standpoint, being president of an association does not imply medical or surgical expertise. The conflict of interest arises when the officer testifies in a case involving a dues-paying member of APMA.
As to faculty members, we were pleased to learn from Dean Yoho that (after the uproar created by the recent testimony of DMU’s Dean of Clinical Affairs) the Des Moines college has prohibited their faculty members from testifying in malpractice cases.Again the conflict of interest arises when a college faculty member testifies against an alumni.
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Codingline subscription information can be found at http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm
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CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASSOCIATE WANTED - MICHIGAN-DETROIT AREA .
Great opportunity-must be hard-working, reliable, responsible, and good with patients & staff. Surgical training a plus. Partnership after 1 yr. Michigan license required. Fax resume to 248-478-1370
. SOUTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA- PM&S 36 ASSOCIATE WANTED
Large, busy podiatry group looking for associate interested in future partnership. Practice facilities and technologies include: Surgical Center, Physical Therapy Department, six appointment locations, EMR, MRI and Digital X-ray. Full compensation and benefit package offered. Mail CV to Martin Foot and Ankle, 1203 S. Queen St. York, PA 17403 or email business administrator, johnreitzel@comcast.net
POSITION AVAILABLE - SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE/ NORTH GEORGIA
Immediate position available or will wait for the right individual. Unique practice opportunity in growing multi-physician/multi-office practice. Well established/cutting edge within the medical community. Close proximity to hospitals as well as opportunity to become involved with a free standing podiatric surgical center. Must be BQ/BC. Minimum PSR/24. Competitive salary, bonus structure and benefits. E-mail CV to afcjen@hotmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION -MINNESOTA – PRIME MINNEAPOLIS SUBURB
Busy, well-established, full-scope podiatry practice, seeking highly motivated podiatrist for a full-time position with potential partnership opportunity. Looking for PSR 24+ individual. Excellent opportunity for long-term growth with unlimited income potential. E-mail CV to employment@associatedpodiatrists.com or fax to (612) 866-5875 Attn. Jennifer.
ASSOCIATE POSITION- KANSAS CITY, MO
Excellent opportunity for a hard working, ethical podiatrist to join a vibrant, successful and growing podiatric medical and surgical practice. Dedicated, supportive staff with strong marketing and medical knowledge. Must be board eligible/certified. PSR/24. Partnership opportunity. Competitive salary, bonus structure, benefits. Wonderful place to raise a family. Fax CV to 816-455-8901
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WASHINGTON, DC
Associateship leading to full purchase or immediate sale. 25 Year old practice located in a hosp. w/ full surgical privileges. Large number of diabetic patients and referrals. Fully equipped with x-ray, topical hyperbaric oxy units, 4 tx rooms and more. $400K on only 3 days a week. Will finance with generous terms and stay to introduce. Owner leaving area. Contact R. Benjamin, DPM jhallux@yahoo.com or 202-841-5545
SEEKING RESIDENT FOR PSR-24 POSITION: BALTIMORE, MD
Mercy Medical Center -Position for a highly motivated individual with completed non-surgical residency or one desiring additional surgical training in well-established Podiatric Residency Program. Busy metropolitan hospital with high surgical numbers and inpatient care. Resident is integral member of multidisciplinary team. Begins mid June 2007. Includes competitive salary/benefits. Send inquiries to rsher18@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK & CONNECTICUT
Opportunity to be a part of a prestigious and well-established large Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation practice, with locations in Stamford, CT and West Harrison, NY. Looking for a podiatrist to join an already busy practice with opportunity to build. We have state-of-the-art offices with MRI, digital x-ray, paperless charts, physical and occupational therapy. Applicants should be Board Certified or Board Eligible. Competitive salary and benefits. For further information on the practice, log onto WWW.NYCONNORTHO.COM Interested candidates should forward their C.V. to: Cliff Katz, Executive Director ckatz@nyconnortho.com
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION - BRONX, NY
Part-time associate position with real potential for full time. Two days a week (one day-in office; one day-house calls). Associate will have an opportunity to work with a very ethical and hard-working podiatrist. Competitive salary + incentive compensation. Please email CV to scottdeis@aol.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION- MINEOLA, NY
Excellent opportunity in fast-paced well-established podiatry practice for full time associate, all phases of podiatry including surgery, biomechanics, orthotics and routine foot care. Begins July 2007. Includes competitive salary and benefits. Please send CV and letter of interest to: cfcsteve@optonline.net
PRACTICE FOR SALE -NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Great opportunity to own a well-established turn-key podiatry practice located in modern medical office building in East Bay; Electronic billing, good payor base, no HMO contracts; biomechanics, general podiatry with great potential for surgery. Please send CV and letter of interest to: norcalpod@hotmail.com
ASSOCIATE WANTED FOR SOUTH MIAMI AREA
Large group, busy, multi-office, partner potential. Motivated applicants only. Mail resumes and letters of intent to 999 N. Krome Avenue, Homestead , FL 33030. July start time OK, sooner preferable. E-mail lianadpm2@aol.com
ASSOCIATE WANTED - NORTH CAROLINA , CHARLOTTE AREA
Incredible opportunity to join a busy, well-established group practice. Looking for a self-motivated, hard-working individual seeking to become a partner. Hospital and surgery center privileges. Salary plus percentage, 401k and real estate opportunities. Send CV to universityoffice@ bellsouth.net
WEEKLY SPECIAL - One week of ads (5x) for only $75
PM Classified Ads Reach over 9,000 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 9,000 DPM's. Write bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 dekagan@aol.com
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PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn 15 CPME-Approved CME credits Online for only $139(Less than $14 per credit) http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm Choose any or ALL of over 20 CME articles posted You Can Now Take Tests and Print Your CME Certificates Online
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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.
| Guidelines |
- To Post a message, send it to: bblock@podiatrym.com
- Notes should be original and may not be submitted to
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RE: (Topic)
From: (your name, DPM)
Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use
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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.
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