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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 17,233 Podiatrists Daily
March 17, 2016 #5,623 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2016- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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Happy St. Patrick's Day |
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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Which x-ray system do you use? |
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| APMA COMPONENT NEWS | |
APMWA Announces 30th Annual Student Writing Competition
The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 30th Annual Student Writing Competition.
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All papers MUST be non-technical in nature. Appropriate subjects include practice management, ethics, law, education, or any topic that would be suitable for a lay publication.
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There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
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First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000), sponsored by an APMA Educational Foundation endowment from Dr. and Mrs. Steven Berlin, and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
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This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
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Entries must be received by 4/1/16 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
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Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry.
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| PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE | |
TX Podiatrist Recommends Exercises for the Feet
A routine stretch that wakes up the muscles in the feet should be done in the morning before getting out of bed, Dr. Leslie Campbell, a spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association, says. Sit with legs straight out in front of you and angle your toes toward your head and then away from it. This works the Achilles tendon and the fascial band, which connects the front and back of the foot. "Jumping straight out of bed in the morning when the muscles are cold can harm the fascial band and cause plantar fasciitis, a very common and painful inflammation of the bottom of the foot," she says.
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Dr. Leslie Campbell |
Other exercises include rolling your foot over a tennis or golf ball, which stimulates the nerve endings in the feet and protects from injury. Picking up marbles or towels with your toes strengthens the muscles in the toes and central part of the foot. And wrapping a rubber band around the toes and then expanding the toes outward supports the major muscles of the foot, Dr. Campbell says.
Source: Angela Chen, Wall Street Journal
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| PODIATRISTS AND THE LAW | |
PA Podiatrist Sentenced to 23 months in Prison in Pain Med Scheme
A former Uniontown podiatrist will spend six to 23 months in Fayette County Prison following his sentence on Tuesday. Last February, Dr. William Ainsley and six former patients were charged in a scheme to share painkillers. Ainsley, 40, told the court that he wanted to apologize to the community, his patients, his friends, and his three sons. “I sit (here) ashamed for what I’ve done, and accept full responsibility,” Ainsley said.
Source: Olivia Goudy, Herald-Standard [3/15/16]
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS AND THE LAW | |
Infatuated UK Podiatrist Faces Jail for Harassment
An infatuated foot doctor who bombarded a married surgeon with 400 love letters and greeting cards only to accuse him of harassment is facing jail. Podiatrist Anuradha Megpara, 53, pestered former colleague Dr. Darryll Baker for four years with hand-delivered messages about their supposed marriage, her wedding dress, and their future home. Dr. Baker, a vascular expert, at first tried to ignore the cards and got his secretary to file them away. He finally decided to go to police after Megpara bizarrely tried to take out a non-molestation order against him in early 2015. Megpara pleaded guilty to harassment at City of London Magistrates Court today.
Source: Victoria Finan, Daily Mail [3/15/16]
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| ICD-10 UPDATE | |
Thousands of New ICD-10 Codes Slated for October Release
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have given the green light to adding 3,651 ICD-10 hospital inpatient procedure codes and about 1,900 ICD-10 diagnosis codes, beginning in fiscal year 2017. According to CMS, the coding update will be implemented on Oct. 1, 2016. The agency attributes the large number of new codes to a partial freeze on updates to the ICD-10-CM and ICD-10 PCS codes that existed prior to the Oct. 1, 2015, ICD-10 transition deadline and which has now been lifted.
Most of these new codes are focused on surgical procedures and, for the most part, the changes should have minimal impact on providers, said Richard Morris, CIO for Alpha II, a software vendor. However, he sees the additions of codes as a lot for providers to assimilate. “While this is a major change, it still should be fairly painless to providers depending on where these codes are within their code set,” he added. “To ensure they are ready, providers will want to ensure that their practice management systems, EHR systems, and clearinghouses are prepared and up to speed with these new changes.”
Source: Greg Slabodkin, Health Data Management [3/15/16]
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) - PART 1A | |
From: William Deutsch, DPM
Wishing and hoping and wanting parity isn't going to achieve it. Dr. Hultman states that podiatry schools aren't interested in joining medical schools to incorporate the foot care specialist into a specialty with a full MD license. Of course not, it's against self-interest.
It's a short-sighted truism. Podiatry isn't what it was 50 years ago. The name change from chiropodist signaled a change in education, scope, and practice. It was accepted by patients but not by the MDs or insurers. Now we flaunt 3-year residency programs and burgeoning forays into rearfoot and ankle surgery. Our craft is undifferentiated from that of the orthopedist specializing in the foot and ankle. But the profession clings to old ways and fails to acknowledge new realities.
The new reality is slapping us in the face. Insurers and government rule the roost. All doctors are afterthoughts. Why should foot care specialists be the underbelly of the afterthought? Podiatrists practice medicine which affects all systems through prescribing, administering anesthetics, and performing surgery. It should be our professional goal to ensure our continued success and proficiency and service to our patients, and that can only be achieved by full medical licensure as foot care specialists.
William Deutsch, DPM, Valley Stream, NY
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS) - PART 1B | |
From: Jeff Kittay, DPM
"The reality is that the end product of our education and training is indistinguishable; thus the license a DPM gets should be the same as the license an MD gets." Really Dr. Hultman? This endless discussion about parity is pointless and will remain so until every medical school graduate receives the same degree (MD/DO) and then a similar residency experience. Podiatrists do NOT have parity and never will until our education, training, and professional degree are equivalent.
Those podiatry schools unwilling to convert their curricula to meet allopathic standards should close. Why is this so difficult to understand? It has been debated ad nauseum in this forum and others for more than thirty years. DPM does not equal MD/DO in any meaningful way, especially in insurance parlance, and that is where it will really count if you plan on eating after your last residency check clears. Change the programs, change the degree, or prepare for obsolescence.
Jeff Kittay, DPM (retired), San Isidro, Costa Rica
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CODINGLINE CORNER) | |
RE: Metatarsal Osteotomy & Plantar Plate Repair (Howard Zlotoff, DPM)
From Michael G. Warshaw, DPM, CPC
After reading the posts on this topic by Dr. Zlotoff and Dr. Mullen, I felt the need to comment. I respectfully disagree with Dr. Zlotoff that the most appropriate way to code for a plantar plate repair is either using CPT 28200 (repair, flexor tendon, foot, single) in conjunction with CPT 28308 (osteotomy, with or without lengthening, shortening or angular correction, metatarsal; other than first metatarsal, each) or CPT 28899 (unlisted procedure, foot or toes). The question at hand is what is a plantar plate tear? I agree with Dr. Mullen that this is, in effect, a dislocation of the lesser metatarsal-phalangeal joint resulting in metatarsal-phalangeal joint destabilization, incongruity, and joint wear and tear. This is not a dislocation in the true sense of the word. There is no acute injury. This is a process over time.
I agree with Dr. Mullen that the most appropriate CPT code for the repair of a plantar plate tear would be CPT 28645 (open treatment of metatarsal-phalangeal joint dislocation, includes internal fixation when performed). The question now becomes, what ICD-10 code(s) would be most appropriate to define a plantar plate tear? Since this is not an acute injury, it would be incorrect to use the S93.12_ series with a 7th character. I feel that the most appropriate ICD-10 codes would be either M24.374 or M24.375 (pathological dislocation of right foot/left foot, not elsewhere classified).
Michael G. Warshaw, DPM, CPC, Lady Lake, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (DME) | |
From: R. Alex Dellinger, DPM
We, too, have been getting denial after denial, and when we win an appeal, they find more reasons to deny. Of interest, we are getting more requests for diabetic shoes from patients because the largest DME supplier in central Arkansas (with locations all over the state) now require a $350 "deposit" by the patient. They are told they will be refunded when their family doctor sends in the appropriate forms AND Medicare pays them. I wonder if this is allowed?
R. Alex Dellinger, DPM, Little Rock AR
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) | |
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM
I have recently read that the technical component allowance for those continuing to use traditional x-ray imaging (film) will be reduced by 20% as of January 1, 2017. This bill was signed into law Dec 18th, 2015. In the bill, CR technology will also be receiving deductions.
As a solo practitioner who a few years ago dropped approximately 20 grand on CR technology (which I have never recouped), I am not very happy with this decision. What is it about DR technology that makes it so superior to CR, and why was CR excluded? Can anyone make sense of this? Kindly inform?
Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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Perfect for the St. Patrick's Day Parade! |
Source: Minnesotapartystore.com
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MEETING NOTICES
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NEED CME CREDITS FAST?
PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn up to 50 CPME-Approved CME Contact Hours Online
Earn 15 Contact Hours only $210
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All required credits can be taken online for AL, AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MI, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OH, OR, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, WV, WI, & WY
Partial required credits can be taken online for AZ, CT, FL, GA, ID, KY, IL, IA, MO, MT, NE, NH, NY, NC, OK, PA, PR, TN, TX, VT, WA, and DC
Choose any or ALL from 30+ CME Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PART 2 - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION - BAKERSFIELD, CA
Office and hospital-based podiatry group seeking a highly trained surgical associate to complement our group. Minimum PSR-36 trained with rear-foot reconstructive experience required. Must have CA license and x-ray and fluoroscopy license. Previous practice experience is preferred. Competitive salary and benefits package. Please forward cover letter and CV to modpm@aol.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Successful, growing full-scope practice with offices in Oxnard, Camarillo, Ventura and Santa Barbara seeking a full time podiatrist with excellent patient skills to add to our team. Competitive salary and benefits offered including health insurance and 401K. Potential for partnership. Please send CV to Kelly@footsurgeon.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – LONG ISLAND
Large and expanding multi-office state-of-the-art group with offices in Nassau and Suffolk counties, seeking a well-trained F/T podiatrist. We offer a competitive salary, benefits and partnership opportunity. We are associated with outpatient surgical centers, hospitals, wound care centers and a residency program. Requirements: Hard-working, board qualified/certified, self- motivated, surgically trained, willing to live nearby. 2016 graduating residents who would start in July welcome. Please email CV to: drbrook@countryfootcare.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Are you finishing your residency in June? Full-time associate leading to partnership. Immediate position available. Busy office with multiple locations. Full scope practice. ABPS Board qualified/certified. California license required. Benefits included. Inland Empire. Please forward resume to familyfootcenter@verizon.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PHILADELPHIA SUBURBS
Excellent opportunity to join our team. Minimum PMSR/36 with RRA training or experienced podiatrist with same qualifications. Candidate should be outgoing, personable, have a strong work ethic and be highly motivated. All aspects of podiatry including wound care. Part-time leading to full-time will be considered. Please send a cover letter and CV to: tricountypods@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE WANTED – BOSTON, MA
Resident or practicing podiatrist wishing to relocate to Boston; great opportunity to become full partner in a practice with no investment. Please e-mail resumes to tritownpodiatry@gmail.com or fax to 781–641–1020
F/T PODIATRIST – PENNSYLVANIA
Expanding, well rounded, multi-site, state-of-the-art group with offices throughout Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. We offer: Competitive salary Benefits Partnership opportunity We're associated with hospitals, wound care centers, and a residency program. Requirements: Hard-working, self-motivated, board qualified/certified, and surgically trained. 2016 graduating residents welcome. Please email CV to: recruiting@foi-solutions.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Busy practice looking to expand. Looking for a well-trained, well rounded, energetic podiatrist. Should be competent in forefoot, rearfoot and ankle surgical procedures as well as wound care. All aspects of podiatry, pediatrics, orthopedic and surgical. Competitive salary, bonus, benefits and buy-in potential. Send cover letter, CV to footdocva@cox.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – CALIFORNIA
Podiatry group specializing in long-term care and assisted living facilities seeks podiatrists all over California immediately. Part-time and full-time positions available. Also need a doctor for an office-based practice in Los Angeles area. Must have a good work ethic, easy-going and friendly attitude. Email CV to footdoctor4u@gmail.com
F/T PODIATRIST – PENNSYLVANIA
Expanding, well rounded, multi-site, state-of-the-art group with offices throughout Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. We offer: Competitive salary Benefits Partnership opportunity We're associated with hospitals, wound care centers, and a residency program. Requirements: Hard-working, self- motivated, board qualified/certified, and surgically trained. 2016 graduating residents welcome.Please email CV to: recruiting@foi-solutions.com
FELLOWSHIP – DIABETIC FOOT & WOUND (TEXAS)
One position for a 12-month TMB-approved Diabetic Foot and Wound fellowship beginning July 1, 2016. Candidate must have completed a podiatric residency/plastic surgical residency/general surgery residency and be eligible for Texas Medical License. Training involves all aspect of diabetic foot management. Curriculum focuses on surgical limb salvage, and medical management of the complex wound patient. Interested candidates should email their CV, personal statement and 3 letters of recommendation to latonya.rosales@utsouthwestern.edu. UT Southwestern is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 16,500 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 16,500 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 (800) 284-5451.
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| CLASSIFIED ADS PART 1 - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
Busy well established successful turn-key podiatry practice for sale. Active adult community. Professionally designed and decorated. Office is immaculate. Working 3 1/2 days a week with a gross approaching 400k. Medicare and cash patients. No managed care. Owner willing to stay for transition. Well trained staff. Make an Offer! Click on link to view website. www.turnkey-podiatry.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE
30 year busy solo practice. Close to Boston, mountains and ocean. High growth potential with surgery, diabetic and wound care. Large patient base. Hospitals close by. EHR & ICD-10. $250k gross and asking one year's gross. Please contact officeforsalenh@gmail.com.
PRACTICE FOR SALE – CENTRAL FLORIDA
Practice available in a small town in Central Florida. Podiatrist retiring. Was full 4 day practice but now 2 days due to illness. Easily expanded. Same location over 30 years. Surgical and hospital privileges available but not required. Purchase equipment and assume patient care . Send inquiries to: DDave9388@aol.com
PRACTICES WANTED TO BUY
Two graduating residents seeking to buy a practice or buy into a practice. Well trained in conservative care, forefoot surgery, and wound care. No preference on location. Please email footdoctors2016@gmail.com with practice and financial information.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - ULTRASOUND
SIUI CTS-5500 with rolling stand with a 7.5 MHz probe is ideally suited for soft tissue and some bone and joint applications. Mitsubishi printer with 5 rolls of thermal paper, plus Sonicgel and US Gel. $5,000 OBO. Micromat 2000 Nail Drill System using controlled water and alcohol spray. $300 OBO. Please contact Amanda Reidhead @ amandar@aafaz.com or (480) 559-8404.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 16,500 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 16,500 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 (800) 284-5451.
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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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- 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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