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PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 17,291 Subscribers Daily
April 28, 2016 #5,652 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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PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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What percentage of your bunion surgeries are done in-office? |
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![](http://podiatrym.com/vote.jpg) |
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PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY |
Connecticut Magazine Recognizes CT Podiatrists as "Top Docs"
Connecticut Magazine sent more than 5,000 questionnaires to Connecticut doctors, asking them to recommend a doctor (other than themselves) to whom they would send a loved one for expert medical care. The top vote-getters in the podiatry category were: Drs. Michael Z. Fein, Andrew Rice, and Abraham C. Yale.
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(L-R) Drs. Michael Fein, Andrew Rice, and Abraham Yale. |
Also named were Drs. Jossie S. Abraham, Marc R Bernbach, Jeremy A. Bier, Peter A. Blume, Daniel Davis, Alan H. Feldman, Gary Grippo, Jeffrey M. Kierstein, David Mader, Robert E. Marra, Robert P. Matusz, Ashley Shepard, Eric Silverstein, and Peter Siroka.
Source: Connecticut Magazine [April 2016]
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PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR |
IL Podiatrist Discusses Dangers of Wearing High Heels
Dr. Marlene Reid was featured on Good Day Chicago for April Foot Health Awareness month. She spoke on the long-term damage that can be expected when high heels are worn frequently. "Nearly 50 percent of women surveyed have high heels and of those, 70 percent said they have heel pain. So why are high heels worn at all if there’s so much pain? The answer is no surprise if you ask anyone who has a favorite pair of 4 inch heels! High heels, regardless of age or body type, make you feel sexy and confident. No matter what your occupation, heels make you feel good," says Reid.
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Dr. Marlene Reid |
"The higher the heel, the higher the pitch, which means more weight sits onto the ball of the foot. As a result, the tissues and ligaments in the feet wear down and can even tear over time. Frequently wearing high heels also contracts your Achilles tendon which can make wearing other shoes more difficult. Another risk is losing balance when wearing high heels, which can lead to ligament tears or even broken ankles. The APMA has reported that there have been over 123,000 injuries reported to the emergency room that are related to high heel use," says Reid.
Source: Fox 32 TV [4/22/16]
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INTERNATIONAL HEALTHCARE NEWS |
English Junior Doctors on First All-Out Strike Over New Contract
Junior doctors in England began their first all-out strike in the nearly 70-year history of the National Health Service (NHS) on Tuesday, a dramatic escalation in a long-running dispute with the government over a new contract. Junior doctors, a term which covers recent medical school graduates right through to doctors who have been working for well over a decade, walked out from all services including accident and emergency, maternity, and intensive care. NHS England said "military level" planning had gone into making sure that patients in need of urgent care would be properly treated, with more senior doctors known as consultants on hand to provide essential services.
At the heart of the conflict is a new contract which the government plans to impose on junior doctors this summer after months of talks to agree on changes in pay and working hours broke down in January. The government says the new contract will enable services to be organized in a way that makes it easier for patients to access good care seven days a week, but the doctors say it will result in their working longer hours at inconvenient times.
Source: Estelle Shirbon, Reuters [4/26/16]
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MEDICARE NEWS |
Important Caveat to Waiving Patient Co-Pays
The old practices of waiving fees, bartering for services, or giving discounts to low-income patients has become problematic for physicians. If they accept federal or private health insurance, they have little control when it comes to collecting patient copays — they are contractually bound to do so in almost all cases. Yet there is a lot of nuance to federal law and rapidly changing payer policies. Physicians are hungry for guidance. Case in point: For certain patient populations, it is actually illegal to collect Medicare co-insurance.
Within the dual eligible population, there are roughly 7 million individuals who receive financial help with Medicare cost sharing through the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program (QMB). The lesser-known QMB program, which is administered through state Medicaid offices, has been in place since 1989, and provides financial assistance for certain groups of low-income adults over the age of 65, eligible adults of any age who are physically or mentally disabled, and individuals with severe mental illness. Importantly, medical practices and service providers are prohibited by federal law from balance-billing QMB beneficiaries for any outstanding charges.
Source: Erica Sprey, Physicians Practice [4/25/16]
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E-HEALTH NEWS |
MD’s Victory in MU Appeal May Be Good Sign in World of Punishing Audits
Wyoming surgeon Razi Saydjari passed his meaningful-use audit with flying colors except when it came to the security risk assessment. He flunked that, according to the auditors hired by CMS to audit physicians and hospitals that had accepted payments to adopt certified electronic health records (EHRs). If they are out of compliance with any of the dozen or so core measures, CMS takes back the entire EHR incentive payment for the audit period. That could have happened to Saydjari, but he won his appeal of the audit, against all odds, according to his attorney, which means the surgeon will keep his $18,000 EHR incentive payment for 2012.
Saydjari’s experience captures many of the aspirations and shortcomings of the EHR incentive-payment program. They include the dismay of healthcare organizations hit by the all-or-nothing nature of meaningful-use audits, the surprising room to maneuver with auditors, the possibility of prevailing during the unconventional CMS appeals process, and the persistent gaps in security risk assessments.
Source: Nina Youngstrom, Health Business Daily [4/27/16] via Report of Medicare Compliance
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL)- PART 1 |
RE: Don’t Forget Your Administrative Professionals
From: Ruth Ann Donahue Executive Director of IPED
Wednesday, April 27th is Administrative Professional’s Day. Don’t forget those who make your office run as smoothly as it does. These individuals are the front line for you as you work your way through your patient rosters, insurance providers, and all the other tasks that make your office run smoothly. Flowers, lunch, a lottery ticket, a bottle of wine, or something that is a special acknowledgement of the job they do so well. Thank you to all of you who make the office run like a well-oiled machine.
Ruth Ann Donahue, IPED Executive Director
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2A |
From: Name Withheld
I am 4 years out from residency. I gross $750k by myself for my practice 5 days a week. I make about $150k.This is not a salary, as I have no salary, no bonus, no incentive. My health insurance is not fully covered, and I have no paid vacation days. All talks to discuss a reasonable increase in pay have failed for 4 years. I have even tried to negotiate increases in % compensation for surgery and hospital consults, because, in my opinion, these services are done on my own time, with no use of office resources or overhead. These attempts, unfortunately, have also failed. My compensation and contract are identical to that of newly hired associates, after four years. Sadly, the notion that older podiatrists "eat their young", and see them as work slaves, is true.
Yes, I signed the contract 4 years ago. There were none better that I could find at the time as a resident. I have maxed out my patient load and feel that there is no higher I can go. I cannot fathom where all of that extra money goes. It cannot go just to overhead and staff.
A word of advice. If it sounds shady, then it is shady. Many of you will tell me to find a new place to work. Well, you're probably right, but it's easier said than done. Oh, and Dr. Sullivan: Some of us want to make more than just to "get by." Inflation is higher than it was 27 years ago.
Name Withheld
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2B |
From: David N. Helfman, DPM
I have been quiet over the past couple of years for many personal reasons, but mainly because I was focusing on transforming our industry, testing new concepts and truly enhancing the group model experience. I always find it interesting when doctors ask, "How much should a new associate make?” How much should a partner make?
To truly answer this question, it’s imperative new doctors and established doctors realize that this answer is truly a moving target and most statistics you read about salary usually have a small sample size. Therefore, the data you obtain is probably not the most accurate number. The reality is that most very high earning doctors aren’t...
Editor's note: Dr. Helfman's extended-length letter can be read here
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2C |
From: Marc Katz, DPM
I think there are a few important points to make. I think the profession has issues with schools putting students over 300K in debt and presenting misleading information about the earning potential of podiatrists. That needs to be addressed by the profession.
Here is my advice. Everyone needs to stop complaining and take responsibility for their career choice. We all chose this profession. If you did your research, here should be no surprises. You need to make the best of it. Everyone is complaining like they have such terrible lives, its not true.
Many podiatrists will not make more than a nurse, NP, or PA ever. A few will make millions. This is not...
Editor's note: Dr. Katz's extended-length letter can be read here.
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YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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Ideal for sloppy eaters? |
Source: Maartje Halink via Virtual Shoe Museum
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MEETING NOTICES
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PM PODIATRY HALL OF FAME LUNCHEON
July 15, 2016 – PHiladelphia Marriott
Honoring Bret Ribotsky, DPM and James Lamb
Sponsored by Bako Integrated Physician Services (Silver), PICA (Bronze), and Sammy Systems (Bronze)
PM News subscribers are invited to see Dr. Ribotsky and Mr. Lamb inducted in the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame, including roasts by special guests.
All ticket proceeds go to the APMA Educational Foundation Student Endowment Fund. Reserve your tickets now by sending $75 per ticket to: APMA Educational Foundation, 9312 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814 or via the APMA Meeting registration form.
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CLASSIFIED ADS - PART 2 - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ACADEMIC POSITION - WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Western University of Health Sciences College of Podiatric Medicine is seeking podiatrists interested in the education and training of future doctors of podiatric medicine. Applicants must be at least board-qualified in either ABPM or ABFAS with preference for dual board certification. Academic rank will be commensurate with scholarly and clinical credentials. To be considered, please send letter of intent, curriculum vitae, 3 references, and salary expectation to (http://apptrkr.com/784853). Western University of Health Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The University embraces diversity and is committed to attracting qualified candidates from historically underrepresented groups.
ACADEMIC PODIATRIC PHYSICIAN AND SURGEON
The new College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery located in Illinois and leading to a degree of DPM/MD, is seeking licensed podiatric physicians to become part of the clinical teaching faculty where, under a new curriculum, students will begin clinical training their first year. Applicants need to be licensed and their academic rank will be that of clinical professor which will also include student rotations through their offices. For additional information please send your CV to: Dominic@ColPodMedSurg.com The new College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - UNION CITY, NJ
Well-established practice in Hudson County is seeking an associate for a high volume busy full-scope office practice. This is an opportunity for a future partnership if desired. Graduating residents are also welcome to apply. Please send CV to: ucdpm4808@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MANHATTAN
Unique opportunity. Upscale, Park Avenue Manhattan. Need an experienced, motivated, caring doctor with excellent podiatric surgical skills to see in-network patients and to cover out-of-network patients. Salary based on experience with performance bonuses if earned. Part or full time. Partnership a possibility if qualified candidate exhibits outstanding performance and skills. Send CV to: institutebeaute885@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL VALLEY/SOUTHERN CA
Seeking associate with partnership availability. Consider this position if you want to be financially independent after only several years. The practice will supply enough patients to satisfy board certification very quickly. As a partner you can be compensated up to 7 figures or more as a dedicated partner. Don’t pass up the opportunity to join a very progressive practice, great opportunity in all ways. No disappointments, one of the best practices in California. All paid benefits/incentives including malpractice/401k and profit sharing. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred. Please e-mail CV and short biography to: Tonya@wetreatyourfeet.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY REGION, NY
Hudson Valley Foot Associates has a great opportunity available for a personable and talented DPM. Visit hvfa.com for more information about our practice. Send CV, with cover letter, to info@hvfa.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST ORANGE, NJ
Associate wanted for practice in East Orange NJ PSR 24-36 trained. Must be motivated to grow practice, especially wound care and surgical services. Looking for the right person who will start the buy-in process. Send CV to Drfoot44@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHEAST CONNECTICUT
Looking for a well-trained associate to join a 60+ year old multi-doctor, multi- location practice. Walk in to an established patient base and full schedule on day 1. No nursing homes or house calls. Competitive salary and benefits. Send CV to lakesidenh@att.net.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – SAVANNAH, GA
Thriving, seven location, podiatry practice is seeking a family-oriented associate podiatrist to build career and long-term relationship. Associate will have full range of services and access to surgical center along with access to all of the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Please email CV with cover letter to hr@atlanticfeet.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI/SURROUNDING AREA
Well-established practice seeking experienced, highly skilled associate. Partnership opportunity. Board qualified-certified, PSR-36 trained. State-of-the-art office, Digital X-Ray, EHR, Laser, EPAT. Send cover letter, CV/Resume to stcpod@att.net or call 314-565-2739.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - JACKSON, NJ
Well-established practice serving Monmouth and Ocean County is looking for highly motivated associate. Modern office that is rapidly growing with a second office opening soon. Must be willing to provide care for all aspects of podiatry including sports medicine, biomechanics, palliative care, wound care, surgery, and several nursing homes. Send CV to: podiatrynj1212@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS- HOME FOOT CARE, INC
We are looking for podiatrists to visit home patients in these areas: Los Angeles, CA, Ventura County, CA, Santa Barbara, CA, Lancaster/Palmdale, CA, San Bernardino/Riverside, CA, Palm Springs/Palm Desert, CA, Las Vegas, NV, Honolulu, HI. Full/part time, independence, excellent compensation, dedicated support staff, electronic billing/medical records. email CV to: homefootcare@hotmail.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.
TEMPORARY PODIATRY POSITION IN ILLINOIS
During June and July temporary (may lead to a permanent full or part time) position available in Central Illinois servicing nursing homes within 90 miles of Springfield. Excellent pay and bonus for this short period! Lodging and travel stipends available. Join our great team. Please email GH@Podiatryplus.net
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 |
PODIATRY PRACTICE FOR SALE - PITTSBURGH SOUTH (BROWNSVILLE), PA
33 yr established, successful practice. All phases of podiatry, laser & cash services in place. Hospital and Sx Center. Turn-key ready with strong client base. Contact pa.footdoctor@gmail.com
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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