The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 9,500 Podiatrists Daily

March 31, 2007 #2,898 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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High-Heel Shoes Can Lead to Long-Term Foot Problems: FL Podiatrist

For many college females, high-heeled shoes are the definitive accessory for a night out. But stiletto devotees may not be aware of the potential for long-term problems lurking in these sexy shoes. Dr. Scott Koppel, a podiatrist in Gainesville, said he regularly sees patients with high-heel-related complaints.

Dr. Scott Koppell

Problems such as ankle sprains, bunions, and shortening of the Achilles tendon can result from everyday wearing of high heels, he said. Shoes with heels of two inches or more can also lead to painful and sometimes permanent calluses, increased pressure on the ball of your foot, and an overall change in your center of gravity, Koppel said.

Source: Nicole Fineo, Independent Florida Alligator [3/27/07]

Fire Destroys Office of TX Podiatrist

Doctors, physical therapists, real estate agents and other tenants who served their patients and customers in the six-story North Loop building were busy Thursday trying to figure out where to do business after a deadly fire Wednesday night left the midrise unusable.

Dr. Robert Leisten

Robert Leisten, a podiatrist with a first-floor office, said the last year's worth of records in his office also are backed up on an off-site computer. He estimated he lost more than $50,000 in medical and office equipment, including exam chairs and an X-ray machine, in the fire. He will move his practice to his second office in northwest Houston, but said he is worried that many of patients will find other foot doctors rather than drive to another part of town. Liesten was one of the early building tenants, establishing his first office there 25 years ago.

"All my diplomas and certificates are in there on the wall," Leisten said before adding the sentimental items don't mean much compared to the three people who died in the fire.

Source: Brad Hem And Alexis Grant, Houston Chronicle [3/30/07]

ID Podiatrists Named Community Heroes

This year's South Central District Health Heroes include two podiatrists determined to keep the community tuned into diabetes health. The 2007 Health Heroes Award was presented Wednesday during the South Central District Board of Health meeting in Twin Falls.

Foot and Ankle Specialist Dr. Randal Wraalstad, who is involved in the Magic Valley Diabetes Coalition, was named a Corporate Health Hero, an award from South Central District Health. Ashley Smith/Times-News

Drs. Craig Holman and Randy Wraalstad, who are involved in the Magic Valley Diabetes Coalition, were named Corporate Health Heroes. Both doctors have volunteered many hours conducting free foot exam clinics for those with diabetes.

These podiatrists also conduct foot exam training for nursing students at the College of Southern Idaho and are involved in the "Head to Toe" initiative, which allows diabetes patients to receive a free foot exam, dilated eye screening, nutrition education and flu shots.

"The doctors' dedication to education and training is helping to improve the lives of people with diabetes," Buck Ward, Chairman of the Board of Health said.

Blair Koch, Times-News[3/30/07]

Query: Inexpensive Backup Surgical Power System

I think it’s a good idea to have a back-up system should my primary system ever fail. I would appreciate recommendations on buying a good quality, yet accordable new or used power equipment system. My experience is that electric generally provides a more delicate hand piece which I like but I was wondering if anyone has experience with the durability and longevity of electric vs pneumatic.

Tip Sullivan, DPM, Jackson, MS

Editor’s comment: Since the terms “quality” and “expensive” are usually related, it doesn’t seem to make much sense to buy a new power surgical system to use as a back-up for your existing system. This is especially true since high quality surgical power units, which are well maintained, rarely fail. We suggest you purchase a high quality used unit, which will probably cost you a fraction of what a new unit would cost.

Query: Bunionectomy Coding

How do you properly code an Austin-type bunionectomy with an Akin procedure?

Can you bill a McBride-type bunionectomy with an Austin-type osteotomy?

John Debello, DPM, Jackson Hts., NY

Response: The Austin-Akin-type bunionectomy combination is coded as CPT 28299. In the CPT book there are diagrams of various bunionectomy procedures, as well as combination procedures, and how to code them.

With regards to the Mcbride-type bunionectomy with "Austin" combination, it is coded as an Austin-type bunionectomy - all the components of a McBride-type bunionectomy would be included in the global definition of an Austin-type bunionectomy. You can only bill for a single bunionectomy code per foot, so look for the highest level code. In this case, it would the CPT 28296 procedure.

Tony Poggio, DPM , Alameda, CA

Codingline subscription information can be found at
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RE: Philip Anthony Valvo, DPM
From: Edgard Nau, DPM

I am saddened to report to the podiatry community that Philip Anthony Valvo, DPM, 48, Scholl '86, of Bell, FL, died on March 17 in a boating accident. A memorial service will be held on April 21 in Bell. He leaves behind his wife, Sybilla, and sons, Vincent and Philip.

Edgard Nau, DPM, New York, NY

RE: Checks Being Cashed by Fellow Doctor
From: Paul Rosen, DPM , Bob Kornfeld, DPM

I had a similar incident 20 years ago, when another doctor did this to me. I contacted the postal police and, lo and behold, the doctor stopped it after a postal inspector put the fear of Uncle Sam into him. It did help that the postal inspector was my patient at the time, but it is still a federal offense. My guess it is also a violation of the ethics rules that govern all doctors in your state. I suggest you speak to this doctor and let him know that you will contact both the state and federal authorities. I don't think he will want to jeopardize his license for a couple of bucks.

Paul Rosen, DPM, NYC, NY, paulfxfeet@aol.com

I had a similar problem a number of years ago. I do not participate with Oxford Freedom Plan, but was accepting out of network benefits on many patients. All of a sudden, we stopped receiving checks. My staff would call Oxford and we were assured that the claims were adjudicated and the checks were mailed. Yet, 6 weeks later, no checks. So I called Oxford myself and demanded to speak with a supervisor. She told me that not only had the money been sent to me (about $12,000), but that I cashed the checks. So I asked her what bank they were cashed against and she said it is a bank in Topeka, KS.

Well, I am in New York and have never practiced in Kansas. They faxed over cancelled checks and someone had forged my signature. Oxford told me that I changed the address by phone (which I had never done). They told me they would investigate and that I would here from them in about 90 - 120 days. So I called the bank in Kansas and they gave me the name of an Internal Medicine group that had been cashing my checks. Then I called the FBI thinking that they handled mail fraud but they told me to call the Postal Inspector. The Postal Inspector told me I had to fill out forms and that the investigation would last about 60 days. I decided that I had to be my own advocate. So I called the group in Kansas and told them who I was and that they had stolen $12,000 that belonged to me and that I called in the FBI because I did not know who stole the money. I told them that if the money was not returned overnight mail with interest, that the FBI would be there to begin making arrests. I got the money back with interest via certified check the next day.

Bob Kornfeld, DPM, Lake Success, NY Holfoot153@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Seeking a position in a warm, friendly, and productive environment? Well, look no further! A well established podiatry facility in Burbank , California has an immediate position available for a podiatrist. He/She must be motivated, reliable, and dedicated. Depending on performance, partnership is possible. If interested, email your resume to drnickoghosyan@yahoo.com

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

Athena PowerPeel Medical Strength Microderm Abrasion Machine Model 4000A-110

Retails for $7,500- Weighs only 33 pounds. The exfoliation achieved with this system leaves the skin feeling smooth, soft, and refreshed. Fine lines, calluses, dark spots and post-operative scars, Up to $75 per tx, with at least four tx's ....tested on patients with great results. I now sub-lease to a spa that has their own. $5,200 or best offer 215-665-9225 or docmaasi@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE WANTED – NEW YORK IMMEDIATE OPENING

Busy multi-dimensional practice; 70 miles north of New York City. Currently five (5)-doctor practice. looking to expand – all phases of podiatric medicine. contact: (845) 454-8308 EXT: 106

FELLOWSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE – NEW YORK

Fellowship in Wound Management at North Shore-LIJ Health System is available for the academic year 2007-2008. This is a CPME-approved fellowship and provides training at 3 separate hospitals within the health system. It involves the medical and surgical management of complicated wounds as well as rotations in plastic surgery and vascular surgery. The fellow also participates in wound clinics and hyperbaric centers. For further information please contact Edward Buro DPM, program director, at Mayfairfootcare@aol.com

ASSOCIATE WANTED – BRONX, NEW YORK

Seeking an ethical and personable Board Certified/Eligible residency trained individual (PM&S 24/36). Position available June 1, 2007 to become part of this prestigious and established NYC podiatric practice operating for 25+ years. All aspects of podiatry - Excellent opportunity leading to partnership with unlimited income potential and more. Fax CV to (718) 931-9324. WWW.BRONXFOOTCARE.COM

PRACTICE FOR SALE -CHARLOTTE, NC. EAST SIDE

Long-established fully equipped podiatry practice located in pleasant office park ; Excellent office software with electronic billing; biomechanics, general podiatry with well equipped, in-office OR. Call 704-553-7327 after 7 PM EDT.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MAINE, SOUTHERN COAST

Established practice with excellent reputation for sale. Practice with well-developed infrastructure and location. Current technology in place. Strong patient flow. Good mix of surgery and office based care. dpminmaine@comcast.net

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

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BUFFALO, NY

Part Time Practice with full growth potential. Mi of conservative, biomechanics and diabetic foot care. Great surgical potential. Gross 180K. Willing to stay through transition. Call 716-836-8123.

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 sher18@yahoo.com

WELL ESTABLISHED PODIATRY PRACTICE IN MT. AIRY, NC

Dr. John H. Hodges had a well established practice in Mt. Airy, NC that is either for sale or in need of an associate/partner to take over patient care. Dr. Hodges unexpectedly passed away, leaving approximately 3,500 patients. This is a unique opportunity to be able to begin work in a busy podiatric practice. If interested, contact Carolyn McMackin at (336)577-2886 or cmcmackin@triad.rr.com

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 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 - NORTHERN VIRGINIA

Well-established, busy, diversified, multioffice/multidoctor practice seeking associate with opportunity for partnership. Must be highly motivated and ethical with strong interpersonal and patient skills. Excellent opportunity for PSR 24 or higher trained DPM to complement a full-scope podiatric medical and surgical practice. Competitive salary and benefits package. Please send CV and references to saglag2@aol.com or fax to (703) 368-5103.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – HOUSTON, TEXAS

Lepow Podiatric Medical Associates looking for board certified podiatrist to join their six location group practice in Houston. Competitive salary and benefits. Email CV to lepowft@cs.com

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