The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

April 09, 2011 #4,130 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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N. Charles MacMath, DPM

N. Charles MacMath, 90, a podiatrist who practiced in Mayfair for 40 years and co-founded the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, died of cancer Thursday, March 24. Dr. MacMath graduated from Frankford High School and the Temple University School of Chiropody. On weekends, he was a violinist and leader of a band, the Mayfair Yankees.  

Dr. Charles MacMath

MacMath was also on the faculty of Temple's School of Chiropody, which closed in 1960. Three years later, Dr. MacMath became one of six founders of the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia.

Source: Sally A. Downey, Phialdephia Inquirer [4/8/11]

GA Podiatrists Recommends That Clients Bring Their Own Instruments to Nail Salons

A local doctor says he has seen infections resulting from visits to nail salons happen more often than you might think. "We see patients on a daily basis who get some type of infection - bacterial, viral, fungal - from nail salons," says Dr. Allen Raphael with Village Podiatry Centers. 

Dr. Allen Raphael

Dr. Raphael recommends buying your own set of manicure and pedicure instruments to take along on salon visits. "They can seed an infection from the bacteria or fungus, typically that's on the instrument itself. These instruments need to be cleaned and scrubbed and sterilized between each use. Very often, there's going to be debris that's left over from a previous client."

Source: Blayne Alexander. 11 Alive (NBC) [4/7/11]

CSPM Celebrates 15th Annual White Coat Ceremony

The biomechanics program and friendly faculty are two reasons why Demetrius Barnes, 25, left his home in Virginia to enroll at the California School of Podiatric Medicine (CSPM), a school within Samuel Merritt University, nine months ago. On April 1, he made another big move; he officially entered into the podiatric community where he was 'cloaked' by one of his faculty members. 

CSPM students Brittany Rice & Demetrius Barnes with Irma Walker-Adame, Assoc. Dean for Admin. Affairs, CSPM

A total of 43 students in the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) program formally received their first white clinic coat in the presence of families, guests, faculty members and CSPM leaders in the Health Education Center Fontaine Auditorium in Oakland, California that Friday evening. "As a kid, you dream about becoming a doctor, and to actually don the white coat, it's amazing," said Barnes. "You see all the hard work you have done to this point and what the next phase of your studies will be, it's exciting."
 
Source: Elizabeth Valente

Untreated Pediatric Foot Problems Can Have Long-Term Repercussions: APMA President

Keeping kids moving is a good thing; encouraging children to exercise is a key component in the battle against childhood obesity. Kids may slow down if their feet hurt, so it's important for parents to be aware of their child's foot health. 

Dr. Michael King

"Just as untreated foot problems can hinder an adult's life, they can have serious long-term repercussions for children," says Dr. Michael King, president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). "No matter the cause or severity of the problem, the health of a child's feet should not be taken for granted."

Source: KNDO KNDU [04/07/2011

Docs, CMS in Talks to Extend PGP Demo

Ten physician group practices are negotiating with the CMS to continue for two years the Medicare payment experiment widely cited as the forerunner to accountable care organizations (ACOs), according to medical group executives. The Physician Group Practice Demonstration, which ended in March 2010 after five years, offered bonuses tied to quality performance and cost control for Medicare fee-for-service patients. Financial returns for physician were mixed during the first four years, and no data is yet available for the final year.

Under the two-year extension, financial incentives would be changed to more closely fit proposed rules for Medicare ACOs released last week, said David Spahlinger, executive director of the University of Michigan Medical Group Practice, one of the 10 physician groups included in the original demonstration. That would allow Medicare to test incentives ahead of the 2012 launch of Medicare ACOs and help physician groups to prepare for accountable-care efforts, he said. 

Source: Melanie Evans, Modern Healthcare [4/7/11]

Query: Presentation to Nursing Students

I have been asked to give a presentation to nursing students at our local university on evaluating foot problems and appropriate foot care. Nursing students help in the clinic, and it was decided that they would be better prepared with some prior didactic training. Has anyone been involved in anything similar, and are there materials available to utilize, i.e. PowerPoint, written syllabi, etc.?

Michael Lawrence, DPM, Chattanooga, TN

RE: Chronic Stasis Dermatitis Draining Lymph Fluid (Frank J. DiPalma, DPM)
04/09/2011 Christopher G. Browning, DPM

I have treated hundreds of these stasis dermatitis patients, and I work closely with a local vascular surgeon who performs vein surgeries. We are often asked to manage the lymphedema patients after the procedures, as many have foot and ankle ulcers. Using the following technique, we have almost 100% success.

Make sure this patient does not have mixed arterial/venous problems. Arterial duplex ultrasound is more useful than PVR/segmental pressure (inaccurate reading due to edema). The Unna's boot put out by Henry Schein/Universal (zInc oxide/glycerine, white in color) is superior, in my opinion, because it stretches/gives to some degree and allows even and smooth compression. I would ditch the old pink, rigid-type boots..

Culture the lymph fluid, and expect...

Editor's Note: Dr. Browning's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Chronic Stasis Dermatitis Draining Lymph Fluid (Frank J. DiPalma, DPM)
From: Jim Fisher, DPM

Lymphorrhea is common with these patients. The best treatment that I have seen is with the use of compression therapy. I suggest that you call NormaTec at 800.335.0960 and ask to speak to the wound care nurse. She can get you started, and depending upon where you live, have a nurse go out and do the fitting for you. All of my Medicare patients, so far, have had their therapy paid for. This company is very professional and easy to work with. Do not wait to help your patient.

Jim Fisher, DPM, Eureka, CA, jim.fractal@gmail.com

RE: Celebrex Not Being Detailed to Podiatrists
From: James Breedlove, DPM

I received an interesting phone call from an MD friend of mine. The Celebrex representative came by his office to detail him with some Celebrex samples. The MD suggested that the rep come by my office to detail and leave samples for me as well. The rep was very polite, and seemed a little embarrassed but he said "we don't detail and give samples to podiatrists." 'Nuff said.

James Breedlove, DPM, San Luis Obispo, CA, bigmanzotz@aol.com

RE: Advertisements for Laser Treatment of Onychomycosis (George Jacobsen, DPM)
From: Barry Mullen, DPM

Dr. Jacobsen raises an excellent point about the specific need for pre-treatment toenail cultures prior to initiation of laser fungal therapy. More generically, this concept transcends laser therapy and is applicable to all forms of anti- fungal therapy. Despite being a self-anointed good podiatric diagnostician, I know I can't tell the macroscopic difference between a mycotic vs. dystrophic nail from non-infectious causes such as psoriasis, lichen planus, trauma, hypothyroidism, etc. I've encountered many patients who have undergone "failed oral fungicide therapy" w/out pre-treatment fungal cultures performed.

When I've cultured post-treatment, most cultures did not demonstrate + PAS. While it is possible...

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

RE: EMR/EHR and Practice Management Software (Dale Hall, DPM)
From: Pete Harvey, DPM

Dr. Hall’s comments are well taken and noted. EMR or EHR could well be written this way: $$EMR$$,,,$$EHR$$

At this point in time, all of this digital conversion is partially a game of smoke and mirrors when it comes to the various vendors and programs offered. I recently learned that my digital x-ray system ONLY runs on Windows XP. Dell will no longer sell XP. They only sell Windows 7 and that is also about to change. The hard drive on my main...

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

RE: FL Podiatrist Arrested on Drug Charges
From: Jon Purdy, DPM

I was saddened to hear of the arrest of Dr. Hameroff.  As I always like to say, here in America, we are innocent until proven guilty. I was a classmate of Dr. Hameroff. I have nothing but great things to say about this gentleman. He always showed himself to be a humanitarian, good friend, and great prospective doctor.  I wish him and his family well as they work their way through this nightmare.

I would also like to see follow-up from PM News on reports of these type of accusations. Maybe I’m missing it, but if someone is hung out to dry through sensationalism, I would like to see the final verdict.  Many times, this is a simple incident that was blown out of proportion or circumstantially dropped.  Although not as sensational, it would be nice to have the last impression of these individuals be lesser charges or vindication. 

Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA, podiatrist@mindspring.com

Editor's note: We agree, and when we can ascertain that accusations are unfounded, we have published this information.  

PGY-3 POSITION - NEW YORK CITY

PGY-3 position available starting July 1, 2011 at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Please contact Dr. Richard Frankel at rfrankel@chpnet.org

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. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

OFFICE TO SHARE- NYC GREAT OPPORTUNITY

6 rooms (1000 sq. feet), Gramercy Park area. Newly renovated, painted, fully equipped and wired. Good for all situations. Available for immediate occupancy. Rental terms are competitively priced based on need. Please contact 157629@gmail.com for more information.

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - NW INDIANA, CHICAGO AREA

2 Full-Time positions open - One for Northwest Indiana and one for the Chicagoland area. Must have 2-year surgical residency. Must be motivated and a self-starter. State License required. If interested email: f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT - (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN)

Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Well-established and progressive offices, including EMR, digital x-ray, vascular and NCV studies, Pinpointe and CO2 lasers, diagnostic ultrasound and electrical stimulation therapy. You can expect a full schedule of patients the day you start, and a very competitive salary. For more info www.greatfootcare.com. Send resume to Dr.Kassaris@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Looking for podiatrist to see patients in nursing facilities in East Texas and two nursing facilities in El Paso. AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY. Please contact me at doconcall02@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY & QUEENS

One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Preferably a Spanish speaking podiatrist. Contact me at Podocare@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MICHIGAN

Entry level DPM needed to join an established, full service, group podiatry practice in Monroe, MI. A generous salary and future partnership opportunity will be offered to the right applicant. Check out our website at www.monpod.com Send CV and cover letter to info@monpod.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Are you looking for a busy, well-rounded practice experience?" Group practice in DFW area looking for a 3-year surgically-trained associate with a sports medicine background. Needs to be as comfortable making orthotics as fixing a complex flat foot. Email CV to crane@faant.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - COOL TOUCH LASER

Cool Breeze Cool Touch CT3 plus laser used for ugly, unsightly, toe nail infections. Less than six months old. Great price won't last long. Considering a laser? We also have the Q- Clear Q- switch laser too. This laser is perfect for you. Also a used Lumix 2 laser, best price today. Dr. Zuckerman is in the Fort Lauderdale area and will demo these lasers on your patients. E-mail footcare@comcast.net

GROWING PRACTICE FOR SALE- PHOENIX ARIZONA

Part of the largest multi-specialty group in Phoenix comprised of approximately 30 referral sources. Selling 50% share in practice grossing 600K. Gross is based on part-time practice but easily expandable to full-time if desired. Active, healthy client population, excellent surgical base, very minimal palliative care. PSR-36 required. Inquire at drlaurel@cox.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - HOUSTON, TEXAS

28 year old busy, progressive practice for sale with an excellent reputation and well established referral base. Well-trained, dedicated, supportive staff. Excellent cash flow $475K income after overhead. EMR, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound. Free standing building also available with large outdoor sign. Also available are two transferable surgical center partnerships(with distributions). Owner retiring and willing to stay part time during transition. Cover letter/CV to softechpodiatrist@gmail.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,500 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 12,500 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $109 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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