The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 11,000 Podiatrists Daily

February 28, 2009 #3,481 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Stephen E. Lore, DPM

Dr. Stephen E. Lore, age 59, St. Cloud, MN, died Sunday, February 22, 2009 at his home. He was raised in the western Chicago suburbs, graduated from Cornell College, Iowa and the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine. Following internships in Indiana and Chicago, he joined a practice in St. Anthony, Minnesota before accepting a position at the St. Cloud VA facility.

Dr. Stephen E. Lore

Stephen founded the St. Cloud Podiatry Clinic in 1976 and later expanded to several clinics in central Minnesota, including Milaca. He served as president of the Minnesota Podiatry Association from 1982-1983. Stephen was active in the community as a member of the First United Methodist Church, Rotary, as coach for youth sports and as a radio moderator for KNSI. He ran for St. Cloud city council in 1993.

PM News policy is to recommend that memorial donations be made to the APMA Education Foundation's Student Endowment Fund. 9312 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814. 

NYCPM Student Volunteers Perform Foot Screenings For Challeneged Students

On a recent Wednesday, seven NYCPM students, working under the supervision of Kevin T. Jules, DPM, Professor and Chair of the NYCPM Department of Surgical Sciences, volunteered at a Health Fair at Brooklyn public school 771@225  Among those attending the Fair were a number of young, autistic and mentally and emotionally-challenged students. 

Dr. Kevin Jules and his NYCPM student volunteers at Brooklyn public school 771@225

The NYCPM students, Shellie Auguste, Magdalena De La Cruz, Kamran Farahani, Crystal Haskin, Michael Moharam, Helen Shin, and Naomie St. Pierre, performed foot screenings and talked with the children and teachers about foot care needs and foot health.  Dr. Jules described what a podiatrist does, took questions, and spoke about the importance of healthy feet for sports and other activities.  The volunteers gained insight into working with the children, and reported that it was very interesting to see the incidence of pes planus (progressive flatfoot deformity) in the autistic/mentally-challenged individual.

U of A's Armstrong "Spreading SALSA" and Prevention to Ireland

David G. Armstrong, DPM, PhD, Professor of Surgery at the University of Arizona and Director of its Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA) was the star attraction at the Royal College of Physicians on Wednesday, where he delivered his message of technique, policy, data and hope. "I'm grateful to the Royal College and especially to my friend Sean Dinneen, FRCP, of the National University of Ireland, for working to bring diabetes into focus as well as the foot in particular."

Dr. David G. Armstrong in front of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, Dublin

"Sean's work in establishing diabetic foot teams is already having a positive impact on the Republic of Ireland. It is my hope that  in this time of fiscal crisis in Ireland and throughout the EU, we can continue to make the advances in prevention that have been started. We see that the new podiatry school, opening next week in Galway is also a testament to that. Perhaps at no better time in the history of this area of medical specialty is it more apropos to make the case that prevention can pay." Armstrong's lecture was punctuated by numerous references to the lively economic demonstrations occurring less than a block away at Leinster House, the capital building of the Republic of Ireland.

NY Podiatrist Charged for Drug & Weapons Violations

A Sands Point podiatrist was arrested Wednesday and charged with writing and filling fraudulent prescriptions for painkillers and other drugs for personal use and resale for profit, Nassau County prosecutors said. Dr. William Levine, 42, had a loaded .380-caliber handgun when he was arrested Wednesday in a Port Washington school parking lot where he was about to exchange illicit prescription drugs with another man, prosecutors said.

Levine obtained large quantities of hydrocodone, oxycodone, Vicodin, Xanax, and Klonopin by writing out prescription slips in the names of his family members and non-patients, authorities said. He filled the prescriptions at nine pharmacies in Nassau County, Brooklyn and Queens, Rice's office said. Levine faces several drug possession and sale charges, along with one count of criminal possession of a loaded weapon.

Source: Joseph Mallia, Newsday [2/26/09]

APMWA Announces 23nd Annual Student Writing Competition

The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 23rd Annual Student Writing Competition. 

• All papers MUST be non-technical in nature. Appropriate subjects include practice management, ethics,or any topic that would be suitable for a lay publication.
   
• There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
   
• First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
   
• This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
   
• Entries must be received by 4/1/09 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
   
• Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry. 

Query: Supportive Sandals or Flip-Flops

I am looking for brands of supportive sandals or flip-flops to be sold in our office. Does anyone have experience with the Bite or the Moszkito sandals? What other brands would anyone recommend?

Alison DeWaters, DPM, Howell, NJ

RE: Scalpels and OSHA Compliance (Scott D. Gurwin, DPM)
From: Robert D. Teitelbaum, DPM

Dr. Gurwin said he had an OSHA program in his office and I assume this was a commercial source of OSHA training and compliance. The rep said that he needed to have the disposable safety-type scalpels which are very expensive.  (My experience with these issues is from being the FPMA's specialist in these issues for the past ten years.)

The key concept to understand is that OSHA laws, rules and regs are for the EMPLOYEES' safety.  To that end, the practitioner is responsible for protocols for dangerous needle/blade injuries, hepatitis B vaccinations, TB testing, and proper antisepsis and protective devices--i.e. gloves, gowns, etc. In my conversations with OSHA personnel, they make it very clear that state boards of podiatry are responsible for mandating specific antiseptic procedures or injection/surgical devices in the office.  Training crews are often responsible for starting rumors that "OSHA this" or "OSHA wants that" in all offices.  

With all that being said, if you have an office where your EMPLOYEES are giving injections or doing basic debridements, you should make sure those employees have the most up- to-date safety devices to work with.  In my experience, disgruntled/fired employees instigate almost all OSHA inspections and these employees for this and other reasons need state-of-the-art protection.
 
Robert D. Teitelbaum, DPM, Naples, FL, mfvandange@aol.com

RE: EBM to Support ESWT (David Zuckerman, DPM, DPM)
From: Michael Turlik, DPM

Dr. Zuckerman raises some interesting and important questions regarding pooling of data in a meta-analysis. It is important to evaluate any meta-analysis for heterogeneity, both clinically and statistically. It is naïve to assume that all of the studies published on the subject being reviewed have the same patient population, intervention, methodology, and outcome. The reader needs to ask the question: Is it reasonable to assume given the inclusion and exclusionary criteria listed by the authors in the methods section of the meta-analysis? Does it make sense clinically to combine these studies; are they similar enough?

If the answer is no, then the reader needs to conclude that the pooling of data is not warranted and view the results as qualitative rather than quantitative. I believe that it is incumbent upon the individual practitioner to critically assess each meta-analysis with some thoughtful reflection rather than dismiss all meta-analysis. Meta-analysis is recognized by the medical profession as the best study method to evaluate randomized controlled trials or other studies when controversies exist as to the effectiveness of an intervention.

I have no conflict of interest to report relative to use of ESWT for musculoskeletal conditions. It is important for readers to assess whether the authors of information have a vested interest in the outcome.

Michael Turlik, DPM, Cleveland, OH, mmturlik@aol.com

RE:  Sandra Lohrentz, PMAC
From: Multiple Respondents

I was terribly saddened to see the obituary for my dear, dear friend Sandra Lohrentz, PMAC. She was always a joy to see and be around. I have known Sandra essentially all of my podiatric medical career.  When I was a young podiatric physician, I was fortunate to have been included in the podiatric medical assistants' parties at the annual meetings of the APMA. Sandra and her “running buddies” took me under their wing and helped me build my career. Her untiring work for her profession has virtually built many podiatric physicians’ practices by teaching our assistants what to do in our offices. She has “BIG SHOES” to fill for whoever takes her place. 
 
She supported me when I became president of the APMA and has always been that “special friend.” I will miss her sorely. May she rest in peace.
 
H. F. “Bunny” Brown, III, DPM, Past President APMA

A giant in podiatry is gone: I have known Sandra for from my early days on the board of directors of ACFAOM. Her passion for education should never be lost. Her quest to assist each podiatrist by training our staff should be applauded. Having had the opportunity to lecture with Sandra many times, I can truly say that each time was a pleasure. Rest in peace Sandra, knowing that what you started with ASPMA will continue to grow, as you sparked the current board immensely. I'll miss you my friend.
 
Bret M. Ribotsky, DPM, Boca Raton, FL

I would like to add condolences for Sandra Lohrentz, who always promoted our profession and has educated so many podiatric medical assistants. For several years, she asked me to lecture at her educational seminars in conjunction with the APMA's National Meeting and was always supportive of our DPM's in the Federal Services. She will be greatly missed.

Joe Agostinelli, DPM, Niceville, FL

RE: Is Podiatry a Profession or a Medical Specialty? (Barry H. Block, DPM, JD)
From: Michael Z. Metzger, DPM, MBA , Michael Sherman, DPM,MD

Of course podiatry is a profession rather than a medical specialty.  This is the way we have always wanted it.
1. Whether or not the school is associated with another institution, we have always wanted  it to be a separate entity, just like a school of dentistry.
2. We have always wanted it labeled the the school/college of podiatric medicine.
3. In states, we  have wanted (whether successfully of not) to be regulated by a state podiatry board rather than the state medical board.

It is really quite simple. If we want podiatry to be a medical specialty, may I suggest that it become one. Close the podiatry schools, and make podiatry a residency program just like dermatology, orthopedics or family practice. It will also solve the question of obtaining the DPM/MD degree.
 
Michael Z. Metzger, DPM, MBA, Houston TX, mzmetzger@comcast.net

There may never be a consensus on adding the MD degree (in some way) to the DPM, but having also earned an MD degree and now being able to identify myself in that manner, I have felt it easier to enter many areas previously not as easily approached, all to my mental and professional being. I have been a board member of a large local HMO for 4 years, having been accepted with other board members realizing my background. That and many other benefits, having a dollar value or not, all have added to my finally professional contentment.
 
Michael Sherman, DPM,MD, Baltimore, MD mikeezmail@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – CALIFORNIA

Three podiatrists needed for busy North Hollywood office. Full-time Monday-Friday 8am-2:30pm.  No weekends and no call. Pay negotiable. New podiatrists are encouraged to apply. Please email resume and salary request to Coasttocoastpodiatry@yahoo.com

LOOKING FOR FINANCIAL SECURITY?

Our practice continues to grow and we’re in search of a motivated, well-trained DPM who is great with patients. Our multi-office practice is located in the scenic Hudson Valley region of New York State. This is a great career opportunity for the right person(s), with an excellent compensation package available. Please reply to Hudson Valley Foot Associates, PO Box 3300, Kingston, NY 12402-3300; or email CV and cover letter to: jobs@hvfa.com 

IMMEDIATE OPENING – MIAMI, FL 
 
Part-time and Full-time position available now. Massive growth potential present in an expanding group practice. June graduates are welcome to apply. Send CV and LOI to qvan@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION -SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY 

I’m looking for podiatrist who wants additional practice hours. Perfect for combining your own practice with an additional income. Must be on Aetna Insurance, Horizon Blue Shield, Medicare, and most commercial carriers. I am looking for someone who has a desire to learn how a very successful practice is run, so that I will be able to have time away from my practice. Payscale to be discussed. Could lead to partnership or sale. E-mail contact information, CV, and why you would be perfect for this opportunity. Contact foot.care@verizon.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

CRYO-Pac portable unit with 4 probes. Hardly used. Can be transported easily from office to office. Multiple treatment applications. $7,500 or best offer. Call (772) 283-3800 or (772) 529-7770 (Cell) or e-mail jaz1616@bellsouth.net

NEEDED CHICAGO -- NW IND & BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON, DC PODIATRISTS

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists in Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and Baltimore, MD. Full and part-time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com Visit our website

SPORTS MEDICINE/ PODIATRY FELLOWSHIP

The Palo Alto Medical Foundation has a 12-month Fellowship beginning Aug 1, 2009 and ending July 31, 2010. APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO OBTAIN A CALIFORNIA LICENSE.  Interviews will be at the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons Annual Meeting and Midwest Podiatry Conference. Candidates will be chosen by mid-April. 24-month surgical residency training is a pre-requisite .Send a letter of interest, CV and three letters of recommendation to: Amol Saxena, DPM, FACFAS, Fellowship Director, Dept. of Sports Medicine, PAMF, Clark Bldg. 795 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94301 Ph: 650/853-2927 Email: HeySax@AOL.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MICHIGAN  

Seeking quality-oriented, patient-focused RPR-trained associate for a fast-paced, established group practice in Southeast Michigan. Emphasis on diabetic foot and wound care. Gain surgical experience while earning an excellent living. Our outstanding staff allows you to concentrate on optimal patient care without the responsibilities of practice management. If you are highly motivated, ethical, and have good communication and clinical skills, please forward your C.V. cfsdr@yahoo.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE or ASSOCIATE WANTED – SOUTHEAST OHIO 

Well-established, two-office practice in Southeast Ohio for sale. Seller currently works 3.5 days per week. Gross >$300K, Net ~$140K.  Excellent locations and growth potential. All equipment and furniture included. Seller is willing to help with transition, Ohio Licensure. Contact seller at bjadpm@hotmail.com for more information.

PRACTICE FOR SALE – ANDERSON, INDIANA

Well established office in Anderson Indiana for sale. Seller currently works 3 half-days per week and gross over $200K. Excellent locations and growth potential. Very podiatry-friendly community. All equipment and furniture included. Seller is willing to help with transition. Contact seller at mddpm@sbcglobal.net for more information.

PRACTICE FOR SALE – DALLAS, TX

10 year old part-time podiatry practice for sale in North Dallas. Middle to high income area. Could easily be made full-time. Great potential! please reply to: footdoc8390@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TX

Successful, multi-physician, multi-office practice in The Woodlands, Texas is seeking Podiatric Physician Specialist in Biomechanics, Sports Medicine, Gait Analysis, and Orthotics Laboratory. Please email current CV to kelley.glazier@yahoo.com

OFFICE SPACE/ MRI RENTAL – NYC, LI  

Turn-key space available, daily, monthly; East 60th off Park Ave, East 22nd St. off 3rd Ave, and Plainview Long Island. JACHO-certified operating rooms available, as well as all surgical equipment and anesthesia. Extremity MRI Rental. Stark compliant. All exams read by board certified radiologist. Call for details. 516 476-1815

 
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