The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

April 01, 2013 #4,730 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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We Wish all our Christian readers a Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

KSUCPM to Induct Three Into Hall of Fame

Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine is proud to congratulate Dr. Timothy J. Byron, Dr. Edward J. Fiffick, and Dr. Lawrence S. Osher, as they represent the 2013 OCPM Hall of Fame Class as voted by the members of the alumni association.

Drs. Timothy Byron, Edward Fiffick, and Lawrence Osher

The 2013 Hall of Fame class will be inducted into the OCPM Hall of Fame on Friday, May 17, 2013 at the 9th Annual Glass Slipper Fete. Induction into the OCPM Hall of Fame Society is the highest honor given to OCPM alumni by the alumni association.

NJ Podiatrist Accompanies Pope on Maundy Thursday

On Thursday, Pope Francis following a long tradition of the Catholic Church, washed and kissed the feet of 12 despondent people at Casal del Marmo jail on Rome's outskirts. Maundy refers to the commands Jesus gave his disciples at the Last Supper: to love with humility. In attendance with the Pope was Howell, NJ podiatrist Dr. Hal Ornstein (a.k.a. HalO) Chair of the AAPPM, who accompanied the Pope because of his tradition of philanthropy and philosophy. As the Pope washed the feet of the young people, Ornstein repeated Pope Francis’ blessing of "God Bless You" and offered water bottles to the mendicants.

Dr. Hal Ornstein With Papal Blessing

In services later, Ornstein quoted Gandhi, “If you want to see who you are, look in the mirror.” And Nicolaus Copernicus,  “To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge,” and Leonardo Da Vinci, “Water is the driving force in nature.” (For a list of other quotes from Ornstein, go to aappm.org). There was a bit of confusion when the Pope asked Ornstein if he had been an Altar Boy. The Pope responded to his aide, “Say what?… He’s Jewish?”

Source: April Fools News 

NJ Podiatrist Argues Against NY Mayor’s Proposed Ban on Flip-Flops

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg — famous for banning trans fats in restaurants and public smoking is getting back on his feet after the recently failed ban on 16-ounce sodas. New York's determined mayor has proposed new legislation targeting the sale of flip-flop sandals which often result in persistent foot and ankle pain. “With so many neighborhoods suffering the worst of this epidemic… it would be irresponsible not to try to do everything we can to save soles,” Bloomberg said.

(L-R) Dr. Hal Ornstein and Mayor Michael Bloomberg

Under the new proposal, retailers would be prevented from selling pairs of flip-flops, requiring them to sell each flip-flop separately. Arguing against the ban, Hal Ornstein, DPM quoted his fellow practitioner Dr. Seuss, "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own, and you know what you know. And you are the guy who'll decide where to go."

Source: April Fools News

ProLab Orthotics Acquires Multiple "Labs"

ProLab Orthotics, a premier custom foot orthotic manufacturer, is pleased to announce the acquisition of several labs. After the roaring success resulting from their recent acquisition of Footstride Technologies, the owners were eager to pursue other labs and have achieved this goal in record time. “We’re always looking for innovative ideas for growth. Since acquiring these seven labs, we are rolling along at full speed” states Paul R. Scherer, DPM and CEO of ProLab Orthotics, “and looking forward to rapid growth of our new acquisitions.”

Multiple "Labs"

Source: April Fools News

Query: Ethics of an Intentional Misdiagnosis

A patient presented with plantar foot pain. After a brief history and exam, I started to explain to the patient about plantar fasciitis. The patient stopped me and said that I didn't give him a chance to finish what he was saying. It was not what I thought it was. He explained to me that there were beings under the surface of the earth who were sending energy waves into his feet, and that was what was causing his pain. I looked at him for less than a second and then told him that he was in luck. I could make for him custom carbon fiber shields that were just developed, which were specially molded and angled to deflect the rays. They would go into his shoes under his feet. He seemed to be very happy that someone had a solution for his problem and agreed to the treatment.

He received the orthotics, and later came back delighted that the "deflectors" were working because his foot pain was gone. The question is: was my treatment ethical? My diagnosis and treatment of the problem were correct and proper, and I helped my patient. Yet, I was not truthful in dealing with my patient. But the patient would not have accepted my treatment and would have remained in pain if I had insisted that I was right and his "diagnosis " was wrong. 
 
Another possibility is that my patient's diagnosis was right and that graphite orthotics do block those energy waves. Opinions? 

Ron Werter, DPM, NY, NY, April Fools News?

RE: Night-Time Pruritis in Pregnant Patient (Christine Dalrymple, DPM)
From: Donald A. Rhodes, DPM, Jon Purdy, DPM

My wife had similar symptoms when she was pregnant with our twins.  The diagnosis of cholestasis of pregnancy is not readily detected with normal liver tests.

Donald A. Rhodes, DPM, Corpus Christi, TX, DrRhodes2@aol.com

I have had a number of patients with this complaint. It is obviously neurogenic in nature. Nerves are funny in that the brain interpretation of their dysfunction can be sharp, burning, stinging, or any other multitude of qualities including itching. In all cases that I have run across thus far, I have completely resolved this issue with low doses of a calcium channel blocker such as Neurontin.
 
These are category C medications, so caution and coordination of care with the patient’s OB/GYN is advisable.
 
Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA, podiatrist@mindspring.com

RE:  How Long Does it Take to Receive EMR Stimulus Check? (Michael Felicetta, DPM)
From: R. Kurt Meier III, DPM, Gerald Peterson, DPM

I attested for 2011 on Feb 2, 2012. I received the 2011 check on March 23, 2012. I attested for the full year of 2012 on Feb 15, 2013. I'm still hoping to get paid soon.

R. Kurt Meier III, DPM, Brick, NJ, icfeet@tellurian.com

The first part of stage 1 is a 90-day reporting period, the second or next part of stage 1 is a ONE YEAR reporting period! No 90-day portion. The third part (year three) of stage one is again 90 days. I got my first check in March of 2012 after attesting in Feb of 2012 for my Sept. 1st to Dec. 31st 90-day reporting period. I just got my check on March 27th, 2013 after attesting in mid-February for the FULL Year of 2012. Both checks were auto-deposited to my account as I have Medicare auto-deposit, as now required. This gives you a time reference.
 
Gerald Peterson, DPM, West Linn, OR, DRP@ifixft.com

RE: Easter Foot Wash
From: Michael Schneider, DPM

Today, the Denver Rescue Mission held its annual Easter Foot Wash. I was fortunate to be the podiatrist assessing and treating pedal issues for these mostly homeless folks.

Dr. Michael Schneider at Easter Foot Wash

It was humbling to watch as caring people from all walks of life carefully washed the feet of the participants. Kind of makes one step back, stop complaining, and be thankful for what we have. Hug your family!

Michael Schneider, DPM, Denver, CO, podiatristoncall@gmail.com

RE: Kudos to Podiatric Biopsy Leaders
From: Martin M Pressman, DPM

I would like to publicly thank Drs. Markinson, Bakotic, and Lemont for consistently reminding us to keep our 2mm punches in the top drawer and to use them with the swipe of an alcohol swab, a cc of lidocaine, and a little Monsel's solution. So often we look but do not see!

Malignant lesion on sole of foot

This new patient had this lesion for years...seen by many, but never biopsied. She is now managed by the Yale surgical oncology service.

Martin M Pressman, DPM, New Haven, CT,  pressmandpm@gmail.com

RE: Podiatric Certification of Nail Techs (Jeanine Jones Moss, DPM)
From: Robert Spalding, DPM

In response to the query on medical nail technicians or MNT™, a more accurate depiction is that for the past 6 years, there is an extensive proprietary online course certification through medinail.com that a licensed nail tech can complete. This course culminates with a one-week podiatric internship that instructs nail technicians to be trained to work under the podiatrist’s direct auspices to do routine foot care, perform medical pedicures, or work as a PMA (podiatric medical assistant).
 
Robert Spalding, DPM, Signal Mountain, TN,  rtspa9999@aol.com

RE: 104 Applicants Not Matched for Residency Positions
From: H. David Gottlieb, DPM,

The malaise that finds our profession with 104 fewer entry level residency positions than is needed is unfathomable to me.
 
FACT - States are guaranteed Medicare reimbursement for podiatry resident salaries. FACT - Podiatry residents are not capped as other specialties are.

There is NO excuse that anyone reading this who works in a non-federal hospital hasn't started to create a new program. All it takes is two new programs in every state and this issue of too few residency positions is solved. We have the right number of graduates; we need more residency positions. Stop worrying about someone stealing your patient. Worry instead about whether or not someone will be around to buy your practice when you want to sell it.
 
H. David Gottlieb, DPM, Baltimore, MD, hdavidgottliebdpm@gmail.com

As a former professor of orthopedic sciences, director of both residency and fellowship programs, and concerned podiatrist, I respectfully submit this emergency plan to provide our current unmatched graduates a residency program that will qualify them for a state license to practice podiatry.

1) The CPME must re-instate the RPR/PPMR/POR/PSR-12 one-year residency programs. The guidelines are already established.

2) The CPME must permit the colleges of podiatric medicine to sponsor...

Editor's note: Dr. Caselli's extended-length letter appears here.

RE: 104 Applicants Not Matched for Residency Positions (Bryan Markinson, DPM)
From: Vincent Gramuglia, DPM, Alan Sherman, DPM

As always, Dr. Markinson has broken down a complex issue into a fine powder. Simply put, we are a group of "podiatrists" not podiatric surgeons, podiatric orthopedists, diabetic wound care specialists, etc.

Our collective need to assimilate to everything other than podiatry has led us to the current residency model requiring advanced levels of surgical competency from podiatrists, 60% of whom will either never perform the surgeries they were ostensibly trained to do, or who will be in over their heads when they attempt these procedures because the numbers have been so diluted to accommodate more residency positions. What is the answer? I don't know, but when a difficult problem presents itself, its always a good idea to look in the mirror and when I do, I see a podiatrist.

Vincent Gramuglia, DPM, Bronx, NY, a2onpar3@optonline.net

It is remarkable how often I agree with Dr. Markinson – and his last comment on this topic is no exception. Going back to a preceptorship model is just wrong. We do need a lot more podiatrists, but we don’t need to train more advanced podiatric surgeons. There is a catch-22 situation in podiatric training that isn’t discussed much (I’m not sure why), but it is the “elephant in the room” during every discussion on podiatric post-graduate education. It goes like this:
 
In order to get on insurance panels, you must be on a hospital staff. In order to be on a hospital staff, you must be...

Editor's note: Dr. Sherman's extended-length letter can be read here.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to: practiceforsaleswfla@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SIOUX CITY, IA, TRI-STATE

Solo practice, established over 40 years. High volume, general care with surgical and orthopedic mix. Surgical privileges at 2 major hospitals. Deferred financing available. Contact: Medical Office, PO Box 4516, Sioux City, IA 51104.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - N.E. INDIANAPOLIS (FISHERS/ANDERSON)

Full or Part-time associates to join board-certified podiatrist in diverse, modern podiatry practice in hospital and office settings. EHR, digital x-rays, PADnet, Cutera Genesis Plus laser, Pinpointe Laser, ESWT, mini-C-arm, all aspects of DME, and hospital affiliations with three networks. Limited wound care. No nursing homes. Current Indiana podiatrists welcome. Tremendous potential for individual(s). Send C.V. with salary and benefit expectations: john.lloyd@lloydpodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Requiring full-time podiatrist (PSR-24 or greater) in established Practice situated in a foothill community of Southern California. There is an existing patient base and a strong support team. Compensation is performance based with practically an unlimited earning capability. A possible buy-in is negotiable. Send resume to office@uplandpodiatry.com , titled "podiatrist."

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HAMPTON ROADS VIRGINIA

Needs to be highly motivated, INDEPENDENT and surgically-trained to join a successful 40+ year practice surrounded with water sports, beaches and hiking. PSR24/36 ; well versed in forefoot and rearfoot surgery, diabetic wound care, sports medicine and diagnostic ultrasound. Please email CV & cover letter to feetloveus@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ORANGE COUNTY, NY

Looking for a highly motivated surgical trained podiatrist in the Orange County, NY (West Point area). Hospital, wound center and surgical center affiliated. It is a busy practice that covers hospital inpatients, Wound Center, and takes ER call. The applicant has to be trained in all foot surgery and be able to handle advanced diabetic wound care. The practice is a 1 hour car ride from NYC and is close to hiking, fishing ,skiing and state parks. Please Email a CV and contact info to clsp4@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTH CENTRAL, NJ

Well established busy solo physician seeking a well trained podiatrist (PMS 36) to join our growing practice. Bilingual English Spanish a big +. Competitive salary/benefits package. Send CV to email: njpod2013-1@yahoo.com

POSITION AVAILABLE - WEIL FOOT ANKLE & ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE- CHICAGO

Weil Foot Ankle & Orthopedic Institute is expanding their presence in the Chicago metropolitan area and suburbs and is recruiting qualified podiatric surgeons. A three-year residency is required and a podiatric fellowship is preferable. Current practicing podiatric practitioners in Chicago and surrounding area are also welcome to join our rapidly expanding practice that currently numbers 16 DPMs, a neurologist, an orthopedic surgeon, and a primary care sports medicine physician. For more information contact: info@weil4feet.com or call Stephanie Spiegel, COO at 847-390-7666.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/SF BAY AREA

We’re expanding, seeking podiatrist to join multi-office practice. Must have great people skills, bedside manner, and positive demeanor. California license required. No nursing home visits. Prefer private practice experience. Send CV and cover letter to:ebpod2008@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SUBURBAN PHILADELPHIA

Full time, PSR 24-36 month trained podiatrist needed for busy suburban Philadelphia group practice. Multidimensional, multi-office group treating a wide range of patients including forefoot, rearfoot & ankle surgery, diabetic wound care, sports medicine, and workrelated injuries. Office & diagnostic equipment state-of-the-art. Full benefit package included with bonus incentive. Position available starting July, 2013 excellent opportunity leading to partnership. Please email to: bailliemw@gmail

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, Midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 12/24 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WASHINGTON, DC/ MD SUBURBS

Prominent, established two office practice seeking well rounded, personable, ethical individual with sharp medical and surgical skills. Must be 24/36 month trained, ABPS qualified or certified. Partnership opportunity with ownership potential. Competitive salary with benefits package. Please send CV to ponyrunner66@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FL

R U a PM&S36 or PSR24 graduate looking for a bright future in podiatry BUT cannot be afraid to work hard to achieve. Nail care to reconstructive ankle/leg trauma. Attitude & God complexes need not apply. Frames / IM nails, must be comfortable applying. Work hard for exciting future. Superstars only. Send info mny1029@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – TAMPA BAY AREA

Multi-location practice seeking individual with balanced medical and surgical training. Practice is well established with growing new patient visits. Offering competitive salary and benefits along with bonuses commensurate with performance. EMR already in place with well-trained assistants. Please Send cover letter and CV to office@fitfeetflorida.com

ASSOCIATE/PARTNERSHIP  MIAMI/KENDALL FLORIDA

Podiatrist with interest in foot and ankle surgery and comprehensive foot and ankle care. Pathway to partnership/ownership available. Send CV and information: ibaumdpm@bellsouth.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION – LEXINGTON, KY

Associate needed at fast growing, practice in beautiful Lexington, KY. All new office structure with gait analysis, med spa and heel pain center in prime location. Amazing benefits and chance to work alongside a forward-thinking podiatrist. Email emenold8@gmail.com with your resume.

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815

PRECEPTOR POSITIONS - PHILADELPHIA

(3) Preceptor Positions available in Philadelphia and possibly (1) or (2) more in NY/NJ. Practice is diverse with a strong offering in podiatric rehabilitation, sports medicine and pain management. Two preceptors successfully completed this past year and gained tremendous hands-on experience. Please send resume to: ediamond7@comcast.net. To learn  more: www.philadelphiapodiatrist.com.

PRECEPTOR POSITION – TAMPA BAY AREA

Multi-location practice offering paid preceptorship. You will learn great patient care techniques along with nuisances that go into running a successful practice. We had a positive experience with a preceptor this past year and want to repeat this. If interested please send CV to office@fitfeetflorida.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED Q-CLEAR LASER

Still under warranty. New laser head just added. First Best Offer. Marketing and training included. Dr. Zuckerman will train you. e-mail with questions to footcare@comcast.net

ACADEMIC POSITIONS - SCHOLL COLLEGE

The Dr. William M. Scholl College Podiatric Medicine is seeking up to three full-time academic podiatrists to train and lead the next generation of podiatrists in an interprofessional, multicultural learning environment. Applicants must be board qualified with preference for board certification in foot surgery and reconstructive rearfoot/ankle surgery. Salary and academic rank will be commensurate with scholarly credentials. Contact Robert Joseph DPM, PhD at Robert.joseph@rosalindfranklin.edu or (937) 479-1793. Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Health Science is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The administration, faculty and staff embrace diversity and are committed to attracting qualified candidates from historically underrepresented groups.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 DPMs 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 14,000 DPMs. Write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 for a 50-word ad. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.

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