![Spacer](images/spacer.gif)
![Spacer](images/spacer.gif)
![Spacer](images/spacer.gif)
|
|
|
|
PMNews
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 9,000 Podiatrists Daily
February 28, 2007 #2,821 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.
|
Aetrex Sock with Copper Sole Technology Now Available
“I recommend socks with Copper Sole Technology to all my patients. The copper fibers remain active for the life of the sock, and copper ions are the only technology presently available that actually improves the appearance of the skin,” says Dr. Richard C. Zatcoff, DPM.
Aetrex Socks, with Copper Sole™ Technology, are unsurpassed in comfort, performance and protection. Copper Sole Technology has been lab tested and clinically proven to help prevent Bacteria, Fungi and Odor in the sock, as well as improve skin texture and appearance. Copper ions are embedded in the CUPRON™ yarn to eliminate 99.9% of the Bacteria and Fungi in the sock, providing superior protection against odor that’s guaranteed for the life of the sock.
Copper Sole™ Sock styles include; Athletic, Non-Binding, Non-Binding Extra Cushion, Dress/Casual and Compression Support. For more information please contact Customer Service at 800-526-2739 or visit www.aetrex.com/copper
|
|
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
House Calls are Service to Patients: IA Podiatrist
Billie Johnson can't be on her feet for more than five minutes. She suffers from peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage, in her legs and feet, a condition associated with her diabetes. Dr. Lynda Haver, a podiatrist, has been visiting her at home for at least two years, said Johnson, 81. "It's a godsend, really," said Johnson of Haver's visits every 10 weeks.
|
Dr. Lynda Haver |
Haver began making house calls about five years ago. These patients make up about half of her practice. She also has an office in Des Moines. Haver makes house calls "pretty much every day," she said, with many of her patients in their 90s. Visiting people at home gives her a firsthand look at their environment and how much assistance they're receiving, she said.
"I feel like I can do a lot more for them by being able to see them at home," said Haver, 45, who practices in the Des Moines area. "I can see more of the supplies and shoes they have at home, more than them telling me." Seeing these homebound patients is more time-consuming not only because of the travel time, Haver said, but also because they are higher risk individuals who require more attention. She said she logs 70 to 125 miles daily on her car. But it's a service her patients require. "I do not work a 9-to-5 job," she said. "I've been working as needed for the patients and myself. I feel good for what I'm doing, I guess."
Source: Dawn Sagario, Des Moines Register [2/25/07]
|
REINA IMAGING SOLUTIONS
.
MAKES THE BEST DIGITAL X-RAY SYSTEM EXTREMELY AFFORDABLE!
.
Don’t settle for less—make a sound investment for your business with a turnkey hospital-grade digital x-ray system
* Unsurpassed DICOM image quality—second to none
* “Reina-Direct” one stop shopping and support that exceeds customer expectations
* Avoid premature imaging plate replacement costs associated with manual plate handling with the only fully automatic cassette loading digital x-ray system designed for podiatry
* EMR integration and multi-viewer licensing—standard
* Don’t be mislead about price and product—get the facts- make the call: 866-734-6234 or visit www.reinadigital.com
Improving the image of x-ray technology for 29 years
|
|
APMA STATE COMPONENT NEWS |
NYSPMA Podiatrist Organizes Event For Diabetes Alert Day
Dr. Bruce Pinker, a podiatrist with offices in Rockland County and Westchester, NY, is hoping attendees will be saying “I Do” when they bid during the Bachelor Auction he’s organizing on March 29th at New York City’s Mantra lounge in honor of Diabetes Alert Day, the American Diabetes Association’s annual fund-raising event.
|
Dr. Bruce Pinker |
“As a podiatric surgeon, I treat hundreds of patients each year suffering from diabetes. I am honored to be involved with the New York City and Westchester County offices of the American Diabetes Association, the nation's leading voluntary health organization providing services for all people with diabetes, in support of their annual fund-raising event, Diabetes Alert Day,” Dr. Pinker remarked.
|
Your Patients Will be Amazed at SureFit's UltraLITE Shoe Collection
Patients are always complaining that their diabetic shoes are too heavy. SureFit’s UltraLITES are amazing patients across the country. The UltraLite collection provides super light weight without sacrificing excellent support and control. Lightweight materials and special construction combine to create diabetic shoes that are so light they feel almost weightless.
Exceptional Fit, Quality and Comfort Priced for Enhanced Profitability
See the difference SureFit diabetic footwear will make in your practice. Call today for a FREE sample of the amazing UltraLITE.
Toll Free 800 298 6050 or visit http://www.surefitlab.com/
|
|
PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS |
Dr. Sam’s Teams Up With Dr. Comfort
Dr. Sam’s and Dr. Comfort has announced that Dr. Sam’s will become a member of the Dr. Comfort team. Dr. Sam’s will now be able to offer their customers the complete line of Dr. Comfort’s shoes and inserts.
In a recent mailing to his customers, Marty Chalfin of Dr. Sam’s told his customers that he believes that “Dr. Comfort is the premier line of shoes and inserts specifically designed for Diabetic Patients.” Mr. Chalfin also indicated that he believes that Dr. Comfort not only produces the best shoe in the industry but also has the best customer service.
Rick Kanter of Dr. Comfort expressed his delight in obtaining access to such a high quality set of customers by stating that “Marty has done a great job with his very loyal customers over the years. We at Dr. Comfort will continue to provide the same level of quality care when they order Dr. Comfort products.”
|
PedAlign Saves You Money.
“I have been using the PedAlign digital scanning for custom orthoses for over a year now and am very pleased with the quality of the devices, customer support, ease of use and tremendous savings in time and materials of plaster or foam casting. Nothing would get me to go back to plaster”
Richard H. Weiner, DPM, Dallas, TX
PedAlign: the most sophisticated digital prescription interface to an orthotics lab ever created. There is simply no other choice for fast simple and high quality orthotics: Don’t compromise: Modernize: www.pedalign.com; 866-733-2544, info@pedalign.com
|
|
MEDICAID NEWS |
Medicaid Enrollment Increases After Enactment of Welfare Reform
The number of U.S. residents who receive cash payments from welfare has decreased since the enactment of a reform law in 1996, but enrollment in other public programs for low-income residents, such as Medicaid, has increased over the same period, according to a recent analysis by the Associated Press, the AP/Contra Costa Times reports. In 2003, enrollment in Medicaid and other public programs for low-income residents totaled 44 million, compared with about 39 million in 1996, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 2005, enrollment in Medicaid alone totaled 45 million, "pushed up in part by rising health costs and fewer employers offering benefits" the AP/Times reports.
Source: AP/ Contra Costa Times via American Health Line [2/27/07]
|
MEETINGS / COURSES
Less Than 9 weeks away Plan to come
The 2007 Annual Cherry Blossom Dermatology Seminar will be held in Washington DC at Washington Hospital Center on the weekend of April 28 and 29th. The meeting is sponsored by the American Society of Podiatric Dermatology.
Bryan Markinson, DPM is now also scheduled to speak at the seminar. He will join Dock Dockery DPM who will give numerous lectures and Harvey Lemont, DPM, Warren Joseph, DPM, Mark Kosinski, DPM, John Steinberg, DPM, Wayne Caputo, DPM and more ! We also have lectures by five superb dermatologists including Richard Scher, MD who will speak about nail malignancy and “Everything you always wanted to know about coding for dermatology but were afraid to ask” by David Freedman, DPM of the APMA coding committee.
For further information and registration contact Dr. Joel Morse at foxhallfoot@aol.com
|
|
QUERIES |
Query: Lesser Digit Night Pain I have an 81 y.o. male patient that c/o of severe pain 4th digit R, only during the night. The pain is so intense, it wakes him. He is healthy, no meds, normal pedal pulses, and his x-rays are unremarkable, He has tried magnets, quinine, and calcium, without improvement. There is no pain on palpation or range of motion, and he is negative for Mulder's sign. I have tried multiple ultrasound treatments, low- level laser, electromagnetic/laser treatments, one injection of Xylocaine/Celestone, all to no avail. Any suggestions? Hartley Miltchin, Toronto, DPM
|
Treatment of Diabetic Foot Infections in the Era of MRSA An On-Demand Webcast
Available 24-7 for Your Convenience
Presented by:
Warren S. Joseph, DPM, FIDSA
and
David G. Armstrong, DPM, PhD
To participate visit www.virtualrounds.com
This promotional Webcast is sponsored by Pfizer Inc and will not provide continuing education credits.
|
|
CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Single Level vs Multiple Level Exam
CPT 93922 is defined as "non-invasive physiologic studies of upper or lower extremity arteries, single level, bilateral (e.g., ankle/brachial indices, Doppler waveform analysis, volume plethysmography, transcutaneous oxygen tension measurement)." CPT 93923 is defined as "non-invasive physiologic studies of upper or lower extremity arteries, multiple levels or with provocative functional maneuvers, complete bilateral study (e.g., segmental blood pressure measurements, segmental Doppler waveform analysis, segmental volume plethysmography, segmental transcutaneous oxygen tension measurements, measurements with postural provocative tests, measurements with reactive hyperemia)."
Specifically, what constitutes a "single level" study (including an example) versus a study of "multiple levels" (including an example)? Second, does each test listed in the parenthetical examples satisfy, on its own merit, the code/study billing, or do all the listed tests within the parenthesis need to be performed to qualify the study billing? Are there any authoritative citations or references which spell that out?
Barry Wertheimer, DPM , Torrance, CA
Response: Here's my take...
(1). Single vs. Multi Level Exam. These arterial studies are always bilateral. When I perform SPP/PVR test on both feet, it is a single-levels study (CPT 93922); if I do SPP/PVR test on both feet and ankles, calf, thigh and so on, it would be a multi-level study (CPT 93923). This is how I interpret our local carrier determination (LCD) requirements.
A friend of mine from other wound care center uses TCOMs, and he bills this way: one lead, CPT 93922, two or more leads CPT 93923. I do not agree with him, and I am not sure if I can defend him in good faith if he were audited.
(2). "What's up with the lack of 'and, or' between tests?" I know it is vague, and Dr. Goldsmith also points this out in his lectures frequently. Are you supposed to do all the test, or just a few? I cannot give you an exact quote, but my understanding is that, you have to document "pressure readings" combined with "waveform analysis/recordings" with a hardcopy document to show that you actually performed the test, along with your interpretation of the test results. You should review your carrier's policy on this to see if there is a clarification.
I would perform SPP (skin perfusion pressure --> pressure readings) and PVR (pulse volume recordings --> wave form recordings) on bilateral feet/legs, then print out the results from the Sensilase System. If you send your patients to your hospital's non-invasive vascular lab, they would probably do segmental pressures of bilateral legs (feet/ankle/calf/thigh) with waveform recordings, perhaps with or without an ABI, then bill for CPT 93923.
Kazu Suzuki, DPM, CWS, Los Angeles CA
Codingline subscription information can be found at http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm
|
PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn 15 CPME-Approved CME Contact Hours Online for only $139(Less than $14 per credit) http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm Choose any or ALL (30 CME Contact Hours) from the 20 CME articles posted You Can Now Take Tests and Print Your CME Certificates Online
|
|
RESPONSES / COMMENTS |
RE: PM’s February 2007 Cover From: Arthur Gudeon, DPM
I think you may have misinterpreted the cover of the Feb, 2007 issue of Podiatry Management magazine.. Remember, the name is Podiatry MANAGEMENT. It's meant to, and always does, help us with not only scientific, but the very important and pertinent updates on the financial end of practice. My take, and that of the other podiatrists I spoke to at our hospital and local meetings, is that we must try to hold onto as much of the money we make for our services as possible, as the managed care companies try to grab it from us. The cover cleverly depicted that well, and we found it not embarrassing or unprofessional at all, but rather it gave us the feeling of proactiveness.
Arthur Gudeon, DPM, Rego Park, NY, afootdoc@ix.netcom.com
Editor’s comment: Dr. Bonenberger states “ I can only hope that no patients glanced over the check-in counter and saw it.” We would like to remind all readers that PM is a trade publication and not meant to be placed in receptions rooms or ant areas where there are patients.
|
CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIC SURGEON POSITION - TEXAS
We are looking for an exceptionally trained podiatric surgeon to work in the Houston, Texas area. Candidates seeking this opportunity need to be dynamic, people friendly, and have current licensure in Texas. Future licensure in Arizona will be required. Exceptional opportunity, with attractive benefits, and excellent starting salary. The successful candidate will find a rare opportunity to integrate into a specialized lower extremity practice with emphasis on peripheral nerve surgery, endoscopic and arthroscopic surgery, and other special surgery of the foot and ankle. Please submit a cover letter with current curriculum vitae via email to: Slb99@pdq.net Stephen L. Barrett, D.P.M., MBA
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
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 POSITION – CENTRAL NEW JERSEY
Associate Wanted....For well established Central Jersey practice, diversified in all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery. I am looking for a highly motivated, conscientious, individual with strong work ethics. My practice may offer great potential for the right person. Minimum PSR 24. Please reply to Jerseypod@gmail.com
LEASE SPACE MANHATTAN/ LONG ISLAND
Are you sending your MRs out? Now you can lease space and run your own MRIs, bill global, and have them read by a board certified radiologist. Two locations to lease, Manhattan East 60th street (near all public transportation) and Plainview, Long Island. Call for details, lease arrangements and reimbursements Email podo2345@aol.com or Call 516 476-1815
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 POSITION – WASHINGTON, DC
Associateship leading to full purchase or immediate sale. 25 Year old practice located in a hosp. w/ full surg 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
ASSOCIATE WANTED - BOCA RATON-DELRAY BEACH AREA
Full time for growing practice-surgical training a plus-hard working a real plus-opportunity of a lifetime-partnership after 1yr. Need Florida license. Fax resume to 561-865-2225
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 – PORTLAND, OREGON
Immediate opening in beautiful Portland, OR. Busy, well-established private practice is seeking a dynamic, motivated, surgically-trained podiatrist. High volume of primary care referrals. Work with a well-trained support staff in one of the most efficient offices in the area. Surgically-oriented practice. Competitive compensation package including malpractice and benefits. Call (503) 652-1121. Ask for Dr. John Mozena or email jlmozena@aol.com
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 – NY & 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
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 - EAST/CENTRAL TEXAS
Practice in East Central Texas has an opportunity for an associate to join as an associate leading to partnership. Hospital supported practice which has two doctors seeking a third for new office. Practice is leading provider in market and offers an outstanding compensation and benefit package. This position is targeted to be an equity partner within two to three years. easttxdpm@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SANTA FE, NM
Established, 30 year practice with multiple office locations looking for a PSR 24/36 trained, hardworking, personable, ethical, highly motivated individual for associate position with immediate partnership available. E-mail CV and reference letters to sfpodiatry@aol.com
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. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 dekagan@aol.com
|
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
|
|
|
|
|