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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 22,000 Subscribers Daily
February 23, 2021 #6,892  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management https://podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2021- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
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Have you been fully vaccinated for COVID-19?
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| PODIATRISTS AND THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC | |
COVID-19 Testing is Down: CA Podiatrist
As vaccination rates rise, COVID-19 testing is slumping, and health officials are worried. In California, 3 out of 4 counties have seen their testing volume drop by at least 15 percent. "There used to be 5 or 6 people ahead of me, and lately it's down to no one; I just walk right in," said Brad Jann, DPM, getting tested at the Petaluma Fairgrounds on Friday evening.
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Dr. Brad Jann |
Dr. Jann is a podiatrist who must be tested weekly in order to care for his patients who live in retirement communities. "I'm exposed to so many seniors and I go to so many facilities, if I'm positive and I don't test, I can carry the virus from place to place," he explained.
Source: Debora Villalon, KTVU [2/20/21]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Things Not to Do in a Doctor's Office: NJ Podiatrist
“Medical information is meant to be strictly confidential. Doctors' offices take many precautions to keep it that way, but incidental disclosures can occur in common areas such as the waiting room or reception desk,” says Velimir Petkov, DPM a board-certified podiatrist with over 13 years of professional experience from Clifton, NJ.
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Dr. Velimir Petkov |
The Rx: “If you happen to overhear details about another person's condition, symptoms, or treatment, resist the urge to comment or offer your input. Your desire to provide help or advice might be coming from a good place. But many people can be sensitive when it comes to their health. Respect their privacy,” says Dr. Petkov.
Source: Michael Martin, MSN Health [2/20/21]
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| PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
NY Podiatrist Discusses Preventing Shoe Odor
Smelly shoes start with your feet. “The odor in feet is caused by the sweat and moisture ‘fermenting’—it’s actually a byproduct and can be any combination of bacteria, fungus, mold, or yeast,” says podiatrist Jacqueline Sutera, DPM. These odor-causing germs thrive in dark, damp spaces, which make your shoes an ideal environment. Feet that are not well ventilated can deposit moisture, sweat, and odor into the shoes which will become absorbed into the materials of the shoe from prolonged contact with feet.”
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Dr. Jacqueline Sutera |
This explains why the colder months—when your feet are usually shoved into thick socks and non-ventilated shoes—can make the situation particularly smelly. Dr. Sutera suggests sprinkling your feet with powder or antiperspirant to help keep them dry, and wearing socks that are designed to help absorb moisture and sweat. “When you don’t wear socks, there isn’t any barrier and the material in your shoes ends up absorbing the sweat, which in turn grows odor-causing bacteria,” says Dr. Sutera. “Wear socks made of natural fibers, or that are infused with copper which has antimicrobial properties.”
Source: Zoe Weiner, Well+Good [2/5/21]
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| FROM PM's CURRENT ISSUE | |
Several times a week, PM News posts 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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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
Nine Ways to Improve Your Patient Communications - Part 4
Research has demonstrated the connection between better communication scores and improved patient adherence, lower re-admission rates, improved mortality rates, lower malpractice risk, and reduced cost per case. No other area of medical knowledge or technical skill has a greater impact on our patients. Try some of these suggestions.
4. Nonverbal Communication
Emotions and feelings are most likely to be conveyed and observed through nonverbal communication, e.g., facial expressions, tearing up, hand movements, or foot tapping. If we pay attention to nonverbal communication, we increase our awareness of what messages we send to others and what messages others send to us. Research shows the most important nonverbal actions that help a patient feel connected to their clinician are eye contact and touch.
Source: Rohit Uppal Logan Lutton, Physicians Practice [2/9/21]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Challenges with the Q7 Modifier
We are inquiring about the use of the Q7 modifier when billing nail and callus debridement with Medicare. We are aware of the changes to the LCD with diagnosis codes. When billing nail debridement CPT 11721 and callus debridement CPT 11056, we are submitting diagnosis codes Z89.412 and Z89.422, (acquired absence of toe) with a Q7 modifier to show “non-traumatic amputation of a foot or an integral skeletal part of the foot.” Now we are being told by Medicare that per the LCD, we cannot bill those diagnosis codes even with a Q7 modifier. Is anyone else having this issue? Should we be billing with a different modifier?
Christen B, Office of Dr. Donald Carlson, DPM, Hermiston, OR
Response: Only use the Q7 modifier (as well as Q8 and/or Q9) when billing ICD-10 codes that are vascular in origin. Check the Noridian LCA coverage letter on the allowable vascular codes.
Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA
For information on Codingline subscriptions, click here
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| QUERIES (NON-CLINICAL) | |
Query: Source for APMLE Part III Exam Prep
I graduated 32 years ago and am presently board-certified. I’m interested in relocating to Florida, but I would have to pass the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination (APMLE) Part III exam for licensure. Can anyone suggest a course to take which will help me pass this test?
Name Withheld
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) | |
RE: Recommendations for Treatment of Raynaud's (Jeffrey Klirsfeld, DPM)
From: Richard J. Manolian, DPM
To add to this discussion, I would like to point out that if the more common treatments we put into place are not working adequately, a referral to another specialist is always an option. Rheumatology will see recalcitrant Raynaud’s and often put a patient on a short-term calcium channel blocker.
Richard J. Manolian, DPM, Cambridge, MA
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (RELEVANT RESEARCH) | |
RE: Opioids Prescribed for Diabetic Neuropathy Pain Not Advised
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH
A retrospective study by Rozalina G. McCoy, MD, an endocrinologist and primary care clinician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, indicated that opioids as a first-line treatment for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) are not recommended and are not safe, even for severe DPN pain or painful exacerbations. Dr. McCoy reports that it is a myth that opioids are the strongest pain medications possible, and can cause harm to DPN patients. She explains that for painful neuropathic pain, duloxegtine [Cymbalta], pregabalin [Lyrica], and gabapentin [Neurontin] are the most effective pain medications based on multiple studies and extensive experience using them.
The American Diabetes Association DPN guidelines essentially also advise opioids only as a tertiary option for refractory pain. Not only do opioids have the potential for dependency and potential overdose, but also the potential for opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Non-pharmacologic measures such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acupuncture, or physical therapy may also help some patients as well. (Clinical Endocrinology News, February 17, 2021)
Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (EMR) | |
From: Jane E. Graebner, DPM
Last year, I was finally able to celebrate the end of all paper charts in my office. We began using EMR in 2011 and I opened my solo practice in 1982 so you can imagine the volume of paper. We had put date stickers on our paper charts so we culled them every year. I hired my daughters when they were young (then employees' children or young people whom I trusted and knew from my church or even patients who lived nearby) to pull them and shred them. They checked the birthdate of each patient since you must keep children and minors much longer (we scanned those into our EMR).
We kept charts for adult patients for 7 years, but I believe you should check the requirements with your malpractice insurer. Young people just put on their headphones and listen to their music and get the job done. Hiring your kids and teaching them to save for their college education is a good money lesson for them. Both of my daughters are debt-free Millennials whom I am very proud of.
Jane E. Graebner, DPM, Delaware, OH
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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Click on photo to see Nike's no-hands-needed shoes |
Source: Andrew Liszewski, Gizmodo [2/1/21]
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MEETING NOTICES AND WEBINARS
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NEED CME CREDITS FAST?
PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn up to 50 Continuing Education Contact Hours (CECH) Online
Earn 15 CECH only $249 (less than $17 per CECH)
podiatrym.com/cme.cfm
All required credits can be taken online for AL, AK, AR, CA, CO, DE, HI, IN, KS, LA, MA, ME, MI, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OH, OR, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, VT, WV, and WI
Partial required credits can be taken online for AZ, FL, GA, ID, KY, IL, ID, IA, MD, MN, MO, MT, NE, NH, NY, NC, OK, PA, PR, TN, TX, WA, and DC
Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category-1 articles posted
* NY podiatrists whose licenses expire from 3/2/20-5/1/21 may take all credits online
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO
Available immediately. Home visits/ some facilities/ some office hours . Illinois license is required. Existing patients’ base. Net $250-325K. logistics are provided. Full- and part-time are available. Contact vadim.goshko@gmail.com or 312-375-6430.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL PA
Once in a lifetime opportunity for a highly motivated physician. We are located in the fastest growing county with a top-rated school district. Our newly expanded office features digital x-ray, MLS Laser, EPAT, DME, 4-D Orthotics, ABI, extensive OTC products including orthotics and footwear. We service a large hospital system and train residents in a 3-yr PMSR. Must be BQ /BC FF/ RRA and interested in Limb Preservation. Offering six figure salary with sign on bonus, PTO, full medical/dental, STD/LTD, 401K, malpractice insurance, all dues and CME paid, partner opportunity. Send CV to footpainpros@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN, NJ
Associate position available for busy Northern New Jersey practice seeing all aspects of podiatric care. Seeking part or full-time associate who is highly motivated and well trained to start in July. Offering base salary plus incentives. Email CV to mhdpm1@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
Well established practice is looking to expand and have eventual partner and possible even transition to possible buyout. Compensation along with 401K, health insurance, malpractice, vacation, etc. Look for pleasant person, who is desiring to become Rearfoot and Ankle certified along with skills in wound care and general footcare. We have a large referral base and new office, digital x-ray, lasers, EMR, etc. Please send CV to scfootdoc@gmail.com
GREAT OPPORTUNITY IN RURAL NORTH CAROLINA
20+ year old practice in North Carolina, all aspects of podiatry. Loyal patient following, physician referral base. EHR, staff in place. Low overhead. Great potential for any type of podiatrist. Will stay for transition if desired. 252-813-3136.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NW FLORIDA/COASTAL ALABAMA
Busy, well-established practice, EHR, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound. Offering competitive six-figure salary w/bonus structure, health/malpractice insurance, and PTO. PSR-36 required. Partnership path to motivated and compassionate associate. Must obtain Florida and Alabama licenses. Send CV: Brentmharwood@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST, FL
Immediate position for busy practice in Sunny Southwest, FL. ABFAS RRA BC/BQ. EMR, E x-rays, US, DME. Base salary + bonus w, PTO, 401K, fees, health benefits. Also 1 ACFAS fellowship avail, must be BQ ABFAS by start of program 8/2021: DrLam@NaplesPodiatrist.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTH CAROLINA
Immediate Full-time or Part-time. General podiatry. Offices in Durham and Oxford. Diabetic foot care, diabetic shoes, custom orthotics/AFO, reconstructive surgery, wound care, shockwave therapy, laser nail, hospital/surgery center. Ideal for experienced podiatrist or recent graduate. Salary plus bonus and benefits. Must have NC podiatry license and BC/BQ. oxfordjob123@gmail.com
FULL TIME PODIATRIST - NEW JERSEY
We are a fast-growing podiatry practice in New Jersey with multiple locations and Doctors. We are currently looking for a full-time motivated and caring Doctor to join our busy practice. Some benefits include: competitive six-figure salary, generous, guaranteed bonus structure, health insurance (including vision & dental), paid vacation time off, paid malpractice insurance and CME time off. Great prospects for experienced Doctors as well as new Associates. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your Podiatric medical and surgical experience in an office-based practice! If interested, please submit your CV to DrSamofal@PodiatryCenterNJ.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK
Seeking a highly motivated individual interested in evolving in private practice to a wealthy and knowledgeable affiliate entity with a large surgical based podiatry group. Surgeons with a two or three year residency preferred. Come join and Let’s keep New Yorkers on their feet! Please email your CV at podiatrynewyork@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTH NEW JERSEY
Seeking bilingual, highly surgical trained associate to join a fast-growing multi locations, North Jersey podiatry group practice. Motivated, entrepreneurial, individual who desires to join a private independent practice. Partnership opportunity, with full practice medical management services in house. Send your CV kmercado@footandankleps.com
MOTIVATED PODIATRIST WANTED - CENTRAL TEXAS
Seeking full-time motivated podiatrist to join our busy practice in Waco, Texas. Candidates should be proficient in diagnosing/treating all foot and ankle related pathology including trauma, rear foot and ankle reconstruction, forefoot procedures, wound care, and diabetic foot related conditions. We are offering a competitive compensation package. Specific details of the compensation package will be discussed with interested qualified candidates. Please email your CV to aszanto@wacofootcare.com www.wacopodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ABINGDON, MARYLAND
Immediate associate position for a well-trained, highly motivated and compassionate individual. Rapidly growing, well established practice with a loyal patient following and strong physician referral base. Offering competitive salary with bonus structure, 401K, PTO, CME allowance, health (including vision and dental) and malpractice insurance. All aspects of podiatry with emphasis on wound care/diabetic surgery/limb salvage. Please email cover letter and CV to michael@mkblockdpm.com
WOUND CARE FELLOWSHIP - NEW YORK
CPME APPROVED 12 month fellowship beginning July 1st, 2021. Hospital and clinic environment, with onsite hyperbaric medicine. Working with infectious disease, dermatology, as well as, general, vascular, and podiatric surgeons. Must have completed a PMSR residency. Please contact drarnoldhertz@aol.com or jtfootcare@gmail.com. EOE employer.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 20,000 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 20,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@prodigy.net or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
OFFICE TO SHARE – MANHATTAN (MIDTOWN EAST)
A Podiatry office to share in a prime location near Grand Central. Located on the ground floor with direct street access (no doorman), the office was beautifully renovated in 2019 as a modern medical facility. It is 900 SF with 5 treatment rooms and currently has one DPM. We are looking for a full time, long-term lease but will consider other options. For additional information, please email: podiatryoffice25@gmail.com.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - BOCA RATON FLORIDA
Great central location. 35 year practice, grossed $600,000 in 2020, without surgery or wound care. Ready to retire but willing to stay for transition. Averaging 30 new patients a week. Sammy EMR, digital X-ray and Pinpointe laser. Email - mbk418@gmail.com.
TRI-STATE PRACTICE IN MIDWEST FOR SALE
Practice is oriented towards surgery, orthopedics, and routine foot care. Office building and equipment are included. Hospital privileges are available for board certified applicants. Town is located close to recreational areas which include watersports and shopping. Additional information upon request. Footdoc2@hotmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - WEST COAST/TAMPA FLORIDA SUBURB
World class beaches, top rated communities, water sports, golf, reasonably priced real estate, active lifestyle and “Champa Bay” pro sports await you. Unique opportunity to own a reputable, profitable practice. Control rental overhead as this medical condo is also available for purchase. Practice in a well-integrated foot & ankle environment, including hospital privileges. Serious inquiries only please email Sunpodiatry5@gmail.com.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - TEXAS
COVID Proof practice grossing 500K in 2020 - 2 ½ days weekly. Primarily biomechanics - orthopedics. Easily double gross by retaining surgery & wound care. Freestanding office included with 4+ TX rooms. No money down owner financing available. Can stay for transition. Contact fjhenry2111@yahoo.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 20,000 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 20,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
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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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- 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)
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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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