The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

April 03, 2012 #4,426 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Women Need to Limit How Long They Wear High Heels: FL Podiatrist 

New research shows high heel fashionistas walk with flexed feet even when they are barefoot, putting them at higher risk for muscle injury and other problems. Jacksonville podiatrist Dr. Vimal Reddy says that when the heel is in the shoe, the position of the foot changes. Walking in your stilettos could also lead to permanent damage in your calf muscle, as each step shortens it. The pressure also stiffens your Achilles tendon, instead of allowing it to flex.

Dr. Vimal Reddy

"If you get into shoes like that too quickly or wear high heel shoes for too long, the pressure on your forefoot is increased, causing conditions like neuromas, bunions, and hammertoes to get worse," says Reddy. If you're going to wear high heels, Reddy says limit how much you wear them.

Source: News4Jax.com [3/23/12]

OH Podiatrist is Permament Deacon at St. Jude Parish

St. Jude Parish has been a part of Columbiana County since 1960, when parishioners met in Leetonia. The parish was formed in 1966, and the first mass was held at Joshua Dixon Elementary. The church on Seventh Street was dedicated in 1970 and the activity center was dedicated 10 years later.

Louis A. Cosentino, DPM, was instrumental with the formation of the church and has attended since its inception. In 1986, he was appointed permanent deacon and is still fulfilling that appointment. He has lived in Columbiana since 1948, when he and his wife Anita moved to the city so he could open his own podiatry practice. He retired from the practice after 40 years, but remains busy doing ministry at local hospitals.

Source: Katie Schwendeman, Morning Journal News [4/1/12]

Doc Associations Warn CMS About Coming ‘Storm' of Overlapping Regulations

The American Medical Association joined with other physician organizations to urge the CMS to consider the “imminent storm” of overlapping regulations going into effect next year. In a letter to acting administrator Marilyn Tavenner, the groups expressed concern that the timeline for transitioning to ICD-10 overlaps with other program deadlines, such as e-prescribing, electronic health records, and the physician quality reporting system.

“We urge CMS to re-evaluate the penalty timelines associated with these programs and examine the administrative and financial burdens and intersection of these various federal regulatory programs,” the groups wrote in the letter. “We also urge CMS to use its discretionary authority provided by Congress under these programs to develop solutions for synchronizing these programs to minimize burdens to physician practices, and propose these solutions in the physician fee schedule proposed rule for calendar year 2013.”

Source: Beth Kutscher, Modern Healthcare [3/29/12]

More Doctors Work Part-Time, Flexible Schedules

A survey released March 12 by Cejka Search, a physician search firm based in St. Louis, and the American Medical Group Assn. found that in 2011, 22% of male physicians and 44% of female physicians worked less than full-time, up from 7% of men and 29% of women from Cejka's 2005 survey. The 2011 survey covered 14,366 physicians in 80 practices, which had from three to more than 500 doctors each.
 
Two of the fastest-growing physician demographics -- men near the end of their careers and women at the beginning or middle are the most likely to demand part-time or flexible work schedules, according to experts in physician recruitment.

Source: Victoria Stagg Elliott, AM News [3/26/12]

Editor's Note: PM News is proud to present excerpts from Meet the Masters.

Bret Ribotsky: Which is a better option for podiatrists - group practices or multi-specialty practices? 

Dr. Barry Block

Barry Block: I think they both are good options. First of all, a group practice is far more efficient than a solo practice because of the economy of scales. It also gives you a chance to get sick, which happens to all of us once in a while. It allows you to take a vacation, and when it is time for you to retire, it gives you an automatic buy-out, which is a concern to a lot of baby boomer practitioners who are getting into their 50s and 60s. Multi-specialty practices are excellent because they provide you with built-in referral sources right there. Also, you have this great educational opportunity to share medical concepts with practitioners who are trained from a different perspective. As podiatrists, we sometimes tend to have tunnel vision; we see things only as podiatrists.

Dr. Howard Zlotoff

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday night at 9 PM (EST). This week's guest is podiatric coding expect, Dr. Howard Zlotoff. You can register for future events by clicking here

Pause for Attention

Don’t waste your time speaking to someone who is multitasking. Instead, wait until the person devotes his or her full attention to you. Use these tactics to capture someone’s full attention:

•  Say “I’ll wait until you finish that.”
•  Pause if the person needs to do something, such as take notes.

Source: Adapted from “Don’t Speak ’Til You See the Whites of Their Eyes,” Joanne Cantor, Psychology Today via Communications Briefings

Query: Hyperkeratotic Tinea
 
I was wondering if any of my colleagues have run across this dermatological problem and what has been successful in treating it.

Hyperkeratotic Tinea

I have tried topical antifungals, oral antifungals, vaseline, Callex, OTC moisturizers, and serial debridements. Any advice would be appreciated.

Name Withheld

Query: E-Mail Marketing

Is anyone doing mass e-mail marketing in their practice? We began to use Constant Contact. Constant Contact, however, has a requirement that recipients must state that they want to receive the mailing. This is not the law. The law states that e-mail mailings are legal and all you need is an "opt-out" button in the e-mail. I am looking for a company that will help me send these "newsletters" without the need for receiving permission from recipients, as long as there is an opt-out option.

Michael Forman, DPM, Cleveland, OH

Query: Voice Recognition Software and EMR/EHR
 
I will need voice recognition software (Dragon or similar) to feel comfortable that my EMR is as complete and accurate as my current transcribed notes. I do not want EMR to shortcut or compromise my records from a risk or liability standpoint. Do all of the popular EMR/EHR systems easily integrate voice recognition software? Which version of voice recognition software do my podiatric colleagues recommend?
 
Greg Caringi, DPM, Lansdale, PA

RE: Accessing Digital X-Rays on a Wireless Tablet (Neil H Hecht, DPM)
From: Farshid Nejad, DPM

It is possible to access your image database or PACS through many apps by simply logging onto your server. Remote desktop connection is on all PCs. I can also do it through my iPad using an app called RDP. But it will give you a degraded image. IcRco has an app that is compatible with its system and can directly give you the image quality needed for accurate diagnoses. But it comes at a cost in addition to the standard system expense. I am very happy with their system.

Farshid Nejad, DPM, Beverly Hills, CA, drnejad@footnankledoc.com

RE: Accessing Digital X-Rays on a Wireless Tablet (Neil H Hecht, DPM)
From: Joe Boylan, DPM

I have 20/20 digital x-rays merged with Traknet EMR. Via Citrix, I can access the EMR and x-rays from any PC, laptop, and my iPAD (which I use in the O.R.). You need a good IT person to get this done. There are glitches, but overall it is a good system.
 
Joe Boylan, DPM, Ridgefield, NJ, Drb0327@aol.com

RE: Recommendations for EMR/EHR (Robert Wunderlich, DPM)
From: Joshua Kaye, DPM

With due respect, Dr. Wunderlich, if we are moving towards a paperless digital EMR system, why would you find confidence moving backwards towards a paper back-up copy of your records? Isn’t the basic idea of EMR to eliminate paper? We are being financially incentivized to make a change that will hopefully improve our efficiency in providing medical care. 

Furthermore, I agree that there are many “free” software examples that you mentioned. However, your professional livelihood is not based upon them. What would you do if you came to your office on Monday morning and you couldn’t log in to Practice Fusion? We should not compare the economic stability of Microsoft and Google to a company called Practice Fusion.

Joshua Kaye, DPM, Los Angeles, CA  jk@joshuakaye.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTH NEW JERSEY

Great practice for sale, lease it, work in practice, rent-free first year, associateship possible. Must have NJ licensure have own TIN participation for Horizon, Cigna, Aetna, etc. Retiring. Anyone is welcome to make offer or come up with other ideas. Contact footcare@comcast.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BROOKLYN, NY

A large, busy practice is for sale in Brooklyn, NY. This practice has been in the same location for over 50 years. Average 150 pts/week, average gross 730K, most surgery is currently being referred out. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

SPACE AVAILABLE - MYC & 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 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - SHOCKWAVE MACHINE

D-Actor 200 by Storz Medical. High Frequency Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT) System. A little over a year old, excellent results for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Must sell; practice merger. Selling for 18,000 (new machine >30K) Email: footdoc21@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TENNESSEE/NORTH GEORGIA

Multi-physician, Multi-office practice looking for motivated new associate leading to partnership. We are a busy practice with state of the art technology: EHR, Digital X-ray, Diagnostic Ultrasound, PADnet, EPAT machine. Applicant should be PMS 36/Board Qualified/Certified. Applicant should be ethical, personable, hard working and interested in providing all aspects of podiatric care to our patients. Competitive Salary and benefits. All interested candidates please send a CV with two letters of reference to mybestnewjob@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PART TIME - OCEAN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY

Looking for PSR 24/36, board eligible preferred. Busy podiatric practice with up to date EMR & practice management program. Practice currently offers digital x-rays, ultrasounds, vascular studies and laser treatment. Good mix of general podiatry, wound care and surgery. Must be ethical, hardworking and committed to quality patient care. NJ license needed. Competitive salary and benefits. Send cover letter and resume to: AOKNDPM@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE NEW YORK

Surgical based, multi-office practice in Upstate New York looking for a highly motivated podiatrist to join our group. Base salary plus incentive. Opportunity for growth. Email resume and cover letter to:professionalfootcare@live.com

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 24-36 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 Diane Coulter, Office Manager.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - VIRGINIA

Immediately available, associate position leading to purchase of practice. Well-established, busy podiatry practice needs PSR 24/36 trained podiatrist, board eligible/certified. Base salary plus incentive and benefits seeking highly motivated, honest and ethical individual with good communication skills. The practice is located in Arlington, VA license required. Email to: drmichaelfine@aol.com

ASSOCIATE - ST. LOUIS, MO 

Multi-location group practice seeks motivated DPM with initiative and leadership skills to contribute to our growing group practice. Foot Healers Podiatry Group enjoys a strong reputation within St. Louis and looking for the right individual to complement our team. Must have the confidence to lead you own clinic and the willingness to draw on the expertise that exists within our group. Starting salary ($100k), plus incentive comp plan, malpractice coverage, health insurance, 401k, group bonus/profit sharing. Please send CV to jmurray@foothealers.com and visit our website www.foothealers.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

Looking for 3rd associate. Must be personable, well trained and highly motivated. Great locations in Southern Maryland, including an Ambulatory Surgical Center. We currently have EHR, digital radiography, dispensing center and PADNet. Looking for immediate hire! Please send CV to:myfeetfeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. I am looking for an entrepreneurial minded associate who wants to grow and then own part of an already successful practice. If you are the right candidate for this associate position, you will enjoy a competitive compensation package and you will be working with a doctor who is as committed to your success as he is his own. Go towww.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - MULTIPLE STATES

Podiatrist Needed in Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Oklahoma. Expanding multi-state medical practice seeking podiatrists to service long-term care community residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. We offer an established patient base, scheduling, equipment allowance and cover travel expenses. Provide generous compensation, bonus opportunities, disability, health insurance benefits, malpractice coverage and flexible scheduling. Looking for a Podiatrist with excellent skills, able to provide expert and compassionate care to patients. Email CV to: careers@aggeus.org or call 773-770-0140 x300/x305.www.aggeus.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. Join a modern, well-established 42-year-old podiatric medical/surgical practice within a multi-specialty office. Located just 20 minutes from NYC. Must be responsible, compassionate, driven, and self-starter. Enjoy cross-referrals from other specialists and support of medical assistants, office managers, and medical billers with over 50 years combined experience. Utilize modern technology: state-of-the-art diagnostic ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, ESWT (machine is owned by practice), physical therapy, x-ray, circulation testing, NCV, and in-office operatory suite. Very strong and effective advertising/marketing program. No nursing homes, No HMOs, No Medicaid, No Medicare. Must be licensed for podiatry in New York. Send cover letter/CV to: linchpindpm@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MANHATTAN

Podiatrist needed for busy state-of-the-art offices in Manhattan. Offices are located near Penn and Grand Central Station. Along with CV, please provide medical plans that you are currently participating in. Please forward your information to roni@myfcny.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – FLORIDA

Emerald Coast on the North Shore of the Gulf of Mexico, a well-established group practice with multi-offices, seeking an associate with opportunity for partnership for a PSR-24/36 Doctor well-trained in foot/ankle/diabetic problems/wound care/surgical and medical podiatric care, covering 3 area hospitals, NO nursing homes. e-mail letter of interest, CV, and references to basewedge@yahoo.com

POSITION AVAILABLE – CENTRAL WYOMING

Well established solo practitioner looking for an associate leading to partnership at a busy, modern practice in a great location. Friendly personality and good communication skills a must. Competitive salary and benefits. Please send letter of introduction and CV to: wyofootdoc@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SEATTLE, WA AREA

Established podiatric clinic looking for an associate to join our team, 5 offices located around the greater Seattle, WA area. Great base salary, benefits and friendly work environment. Please send resume to: seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KINGSTON, PA
 
Looking for PSR 24/36 trained podiatrist with board eligible or board certified status. Good mix of surgery, wound care and general podiatry. Competitive salary with bonus structure and benefits as well as partnership option. Email cover letter and CV to flombardo@epix.net
 
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA

Looking for outstanding associate for current solo practice with partnership opportunity. Research my practice by Googling Dr. Marc Katz Tampa and then based on what you find tell me the reason you would be the perfect candidate. We are only looking for long-term high quality candidates. Email me at:DocMKatz@gmail.com with your answers and CV.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 DPM's 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 13,500 DPM's. 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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