The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

February 27, 2013 #4,702 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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PA Podiatrist Is Leader of Ga People in America

Even before Christine Wiggins, founder of Imhotep Institute Charter School, took her first group of students to Africa in 2000, she knew that Dr. Samuel Quartey deserved admiration. Quartey, who organized the trip, helped Wiggins develop Imhotep in 1998 as one of the country's first charter high schools with an Afrocentric focus. He also was one of the first black surgeons to open a private practice in Philadelphia, and he would later become involved with most of the powerhouse African-American institutions in the city.

Dr. Samuel Quartey (photo: Alejandro Alvarez)

Yet, Wiggins never knew Quartey was royalty until shortly before they landed in Ghana.In fact, Quartey is the representative of the 20,000 Ga people - who traditionally live along the southeast coast of the West African nation near Accra - who live in America. Quartey moved to the United States in 1969 to complete a degree at Howard University, in Washington, D.C., then came to Philadelphia in 1975 to study podiatric medicine at Temple.

Source: Derrick Moore, Philly.com [2/25/13]

FL Podiatrist Actively Involved in Annual Passion Play

"It is a life-changing experience," said the director of Passion Play, Mike Graham, of the emotion evoked by this realistic Easter narrative, which includes a cast of more than 250 actors and more than 100 animals. This dramatic, and at times graphic, three-hour depiction of Jesus' life, miracles, crucifixion and resurrection is being performed Friday and Saturday evenings through April 20, on a 250-foot set at Wauchula's Cattlemen's Arena.

Dr. Olga Luepschen

Podiatrist Dr. Olga Luepschen and her daughters have been actively involved for eight years. Though her daughters had scheduling conflicts this year, Luepschen is committed to the show.

Source: Tampa Tribune [2/25/13]

Query: Post-op Billing Dispute

I did surgery on a patient three years ago. She did very well post-operatively and was happy with the outcome. Last week, her father presented to my office and said that he had a letter from a collection agency. It was from the hospital for $200 from 2010. He dropped an attorney's name, so I said, "have the attorney call me."

The next day, the patient's father called me and said his so-called nephew the attorney said that I and he should handle it between us. I felt threatened and made a police report as a cautionary move. Does the patient have any recourse here and what can I do to have these people leave me alone?

Name Withheld (MI)

Editor's Comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. In Michigan, the medical malpractice statute of limitations is two (2) years, so the patient's options are very limited. Since the bill is from the hospital and not you, the patient should be directed to the hospital's billing department.

Query: Source For Lesser Metatarsal Total Head Implants

Does anyone know of a vendor who supplies lesser metatarsal total head implants? I am not interested in the metatarsal caps that are available. Any comments on their use or experience will be appreciated.
 
Richard Silverstein, DPM, Havre de Grace, MD

Query: Surgical Co-Pays

Our office has noticed that some insurance companies are charging patients a specialist co-pay of $40 and a surgical co-pay of $100-$150 for the same date of service. An example of surgery would be a CPT 10061 (incision and drainage, abscess; complicated or multiple) or CPT 10121 (incision and removal of foreign body; subcutaneous; complicated). I have called the insurance companies and they are considering those procedure codes, surgical. Are any other offices experiencing this problem?

Dawn Dryden, DPM, Batavia, NY

Response: Yes, that code is a surgical code...so are nail debridements and injections. There are four basic distinctions: E/M, diagnostics, physical medicine, and everything else is surgical. The question may be more of place of service when the larger co-pay comes into play, or if the "surgery" costs over $X.XX.

If any surgery requires that co-pay, then that is how that plan was set-up for the patient. The patient/employer selected that plan, not you. You can only abide by the rules established by the patient's plan. If the patient has a problem with the co-pay, they should call their plan.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

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RE: Replacing Implant (Dale Shrum, DPM)
From: Alan McGill, DPM

Though I agree with attempting conservative therapy prior to surgery, surgery should not automatically be ruled out. A CT is essential to look at the integrity of the syndesmosis and fibular cyst. The screws are broken, but the x-rays do show ossification between the distal tibia and fibula, and it may still be stable.

There is peri-prosthetic spurring and osteolysis of the fibula from wear of the polyethylene spacer. Fortunately, there is no subsidence of the tibial or talar components, the position of the implant remains acceptable, and he has good range of motion.

If you have experience with total ankle replacement, I'd consider debriding the cyst and filling it with bone graft, assessing the stability of the components intra-operatively, and exchanging the poly. If you don't have experience with TAR, refer to someone who does. Grafting a cyst and replacing a poly in an active 74 year old is an easier fix than doing a total revision 5 or 10 years later when the cyst has caused a pathologic fracture and possible catastrophic failure.

Alan McGill, DPM, Boca Raton, FL, alanmacgill@gmail.com

RE: Fixation vs. Non-Fixation of Metatarsal Osteotomies (Gino Scartozzi, DPM)
From: Lawrence Kobak, DPM, JD

Dr. Scartozzi's comments regarding fixation require a response. We all see each other's failures! When I first opened my office in 1976, one of my first patients required a partial amputation after a large incision procedure with internal fixation. I certainly am not condemning these procedures based on that observation. Dr. Scartozzi's own explanation as to why you can get AVN, is one of the precise arguments FOR using minimal incision and minimally invasive surgery; there is less surgical dissection and tissue handling. Whether or not adjacent metatarsal osteotomies should be performed has nothing to do with fixation or length of incision. Ad hominum attacks add nothing.

Accepting that under the correct circumstances, non-fixated osteotomies and minimal incision surgery is within the national standard of care, is not so difficult. They have been performed since the 1960s and have withstood the test of time. Rest assured, I am in no way slighting all of the excellent surgeons, including Dr. Scartozzi, who find a different surgical technique more to their liking. I respect their ability and what they add to our profession. Please respect others who may have a different opinion based upon their collective experience and abilities.

Lawrence Kobak, DPM, JD, Manhasset, NY, lfkobak@gmail.com

RE: Reasonably Priced EMR with Good Tech Support (Mary Carlson, DPM)
From: Michael Tongue, DPM, Elliot Udell, DPM

Try Realmed by Intuitive Solutions. You should be able to find them on the Internet. They are Chicago-based. The price is roughly $7,000.

Michael Tongue, DPM, West River, MD, m.tongue@att.net

I have been using Practice Fusion for over a year. They have by far the best tech support that I have ever encountered in any computer software I have ever used. If you have a problem with anything related to your work, you click on a help button and a live person comes online almost immediately and helps solve your problem. What is mind-boggling is that the program is actually free, and you can be up and running with it within five minutes from the time you register for it.
 
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY, Elliotu@aol.com

RE: Life-Saving Role of Podiatric Physicians (Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH)
From: Sam Bell, DPM

I remember that several years ago, Langer Labs had an ad campaign that in effect said that if you cannot exercise because of a foot problem, then your feet really are "killing you." I always thought that was not only true, but a great way to show our importance to people's overall healthcare. It did not last long, so I guess it wasn't an effective campaign, but here we are trying to say the same thing again because it is still so true. Perhaps this would be a good direction for the APMA to go in its podiatric marketing.

Sam Bell, DPM, Schenectady, NY, dpmbell@aol.com

RE: NY Podiatrist Wins $5M in Lottery
From: Pearl Herman

I am the outside medical biller for Dr. David Shaffer. I would like to congratulate him upon his good fortune in winning the 5 million dollar lottery. Dr. Shaffer is a very talented and successful man, and I am sure he'll perform many great deeds. I hope that you all strike good fortune too!

Pearl Herman, pearlh2013@gmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED Q-CLEAR LASER

Still under warranty. New laser head just added. First Best Offer. Marketing and training included. Dr. Zuckerman will train you. e-mail with questions to  mook863@comcast.net 

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MISSION VIEJO, CA

Relocating to Tulsa. Great opportunity to buy my office. Located at Mission Hospital. Gross income 2012 was $560,000. Approximately 1300sqft with 3 treatment rooms, digital x-ray and fully computerized. Will consider all offers. Call David at 949-702-1052 or david@missionviejofootcare.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - CORONADO, CA

Unique opportunity to purchase a very well established practice in beautiful San Diego. Hospital privileges available. Large and stable patient and referral base with consistent new patient growth. Why not practice where people vacation and retire? Willing to stay for transition. Inquires please email pestibear@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation 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. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. 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

ASSOCIATE POSITION – MARIETTA, GA
 
An associate is needed for a dynamic practice located in Marietta, GA, a suburb of Atlanta. We are looking for a well trained, motivated and personable candidate. This is a great practice opportunity. 2 years or more of a surgical residency is required and practice experience is a bonus. Our office has a licensed and certified surgical center. This is a modern practice with ultrasound, digital x-ray and EMR. We offer a competitive salary and benefits along with potential for partnership. Please e-mail your cover letter, curriculum vitae, letter of references and picture to light@eastcobbfoot.com.

Associate Position - Houston, Texas 

PSR 24+/ Equiv. DPM, Texas license, Busy diverse practice. Greater Houston Area, Guaranteed Salary and benefits All Aspects of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. Board eligibilty, Bilingual A Plus. Send CV to Randal Lepow at rmldpm1@att.net

POSITION AVAILABLE - WEIL FOOT ANKLE & ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE-CHICAGO

Weil Foot Ankle & Orthopedic Institute is expanding their presence in the Chicago metropolitan area and suburbs and is recruiting qualified podiatric surgeons. A three-year residency is required and a podiatric fellowship is preferable. Current practicing podiatric practitioners in Chicago and surrounding area are also welcome to join our rapidly expanding practice that currently numbers 16 DPMs, a neurologist, an orthopedic surgeon, and a primary care sports medicine physician. For more information contact: info@weil4feet.com or call Stephanie Spiegel, COO at 847-390-7666.

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. Above average salary and benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTH CAROLINA

New associate position available that may lead to partnership. We are a very busy practice providing care in both office and hospital settings. EHR, arterial vascular testing, and ESWT in the office. We are fully integrated in a large tertiary teaching hospital. We are located in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. Research opportunities are available. Applicant should be ethical, personable, hard-working, and committed to quality in patient care. We are offering a competitive compensation package and a wide range of benefits. All interested candidates should send a CV to MFAS828@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

Looking for a once in a lifetime opportunity to join a state-of-the-art well rounded Long Island practice with hospital privileges? Then our office is what you're looking for. Located 20 miles from NYC, LI offers great schools and lifestyle. Perfect for an experienced practitioner or 2013 residency graduate who is ethical, productive, and board certified/qualified looking to be part of a winning team now and in the future. Want to be a partner in a successful practice or own your own office? Serious motivated practitioners only invited to send their CV and personalized cover letter to: mets724@gmail.com.

PODIATRIC PHYSICIAN/SURGEON - CHICAGO AND SUBURBS

Chicago Podiatric Surgeons is searching for a full-time podiatric physician/surgeon. Prefer ABPS qualified/certified with experience in private practice. Great benefit package and partnership opportunities. Please send letter of interest, CV to dr.tcarr@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ORANGE COUNTY, NY

Looking for a highly motivated surgical trained podiatrist in the Orange County, NY (West Point area). Hospital, wound center and surgical center affiliated. It is a busy practice that covers hospital inpatients, Wound Center, and takes ER call. The applicant has to be trained in all foot surgery and be able to handle advanced diabetic wound care. The practice is a 1 hour car ride from NYC and is close to hiking, fishing ,skiing and state parks. Please Email a CV and contact info to clsp4@yahoo.com

POSITION AVAILABLE - BALTIMORE MARYLAND

Confident, surgically trained associate position available to join well-established practice locations. Leading to ownership within 3 years! Great salary and benefits. Will train on practice management, business management, and billing. Call 301-514-9781

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 12/24 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WASHINGTON, DC/ MD SUBURBS

Prominent, established two office practice seeking well rounded, personable, ethical individual with sharp medical and surgical skills. Must be 24/36 month trained, ABPS qualified or certified. Partnership opportunity with ownership potential. Competitive salary with benefits package. Please send CV to ponyrunner66@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Requiring full-time podiatrist (PSR-24 or greater) in established Practice situated in a foothill community of Southern California. There is an existing patient base and a strong support team. Compensation is performance based with practically an unlimited earning capability. A possible buy-in is negotiable. Send resume to office@uplandpodiatry.com , titled, "Podiatrist".

ASSOCIATE POSITION - VA (SOUTH CENTRAL)

Thirty year established practice seeking associate. PSR 24/36 training, must be highly motivated, personable, ethical and willing to provide all aspects of podiatric care. Early partnership opportunity with potential ownership. Competitive salary and benefits. Excellent opportunity for a successful career. Please send CV to footcare2020@aol.com or fax to 804 733-5946.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL VALLEY/SOUTHERN CA

Seeking associate with partnership availability. Must be highly motivated and have good patient skills and personality. Salary excellent with all paid benefits/incentives including malpractice/401k and profit sharing. Compassionate and well-trained for immediate position. Surgery Center and hospital-based with no HMOs/no rest homes. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred. Offering a permanent position/partnership in a multi-million dollar hi-tech practice with Partnership also in Surgery center. Please e-mail CV and short bio to: Tonya@wetreatyourfeet.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MISSOURI – EAST CENTRAL

Podiatric medical group seeks recent graduate or 2013 graduate who is interested in working with former residency director who can enhance your already strong training Full scope practice with the cases to fast track to board certification. We are located close to St. Louis for day use. Exceptional school system in a low crime, low cost of living area. E-mail resume to: drfootski@hotmail.com

PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP - ORANGE COUNTY CA

July 1, 2013 and ending July 31, 2014. $60,000/year, medical, dental, malpractice, and CME allowance. APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO OBTAIN A CALIFORNIA LICENSE. Letter of interest, and CV to: Philip Radovic, DPM, Fellowship Director, Email: Info@feetfixer.com

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 DPMs 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 14,000 DPMs. Write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 for a 50-word ad. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451

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