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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 20,000 Subscribers Daily
April 29, 2021 #6,939 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management https://podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2021- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
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Do you have an emergency crash cart in your office?
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
NY Podiatrist Discusses Factors for Best Treatment of Bunions
"Surgery is the only way to correct a bunion; however, not all bunions require surgery," explains Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare. "The best treatment for bunions depends on the severity of pain, medical history, how rapidly the bunion has progressed, and if pain relief can be achieved with conservative non-surgical treatment." To put it simply, "when conservative treatment fails, surgery is recommended to help correct the misalignment of the big toe joint," he says.
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Dr. Miguel Cunha |
For bunions that are relatively mild but still bad enough to require surgery, treatment often involves an osteotomy, a procedure in which the surgeon cuts into the ball of the foot, realigns the tilted bone and holds it in place with screws. For more severe cases, often a surgeon will also remove part of the bone before the realignment. Unfortunately, bunions can return even after you've had surgery. They have an estimated recurrence rate of 25 percent, according to a study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery.
Source: Renee Cherry, Shape [4/26/21]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
IN Podiatrist To Join Sanford Health Team
Scott Hoffman, DPM has practiced podiatry for 39 years; perhaps, after all this time, he’s ready for a change. Effective May 3, he will join Sanford Health as a podiatrist. Teaming up with Sanford Health wasn’t exactly planned, but Dr. Hoffman is aware of its multiple advantages.
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Dr. Scott Hoffman |
“It’s going to give me that benefit of having access to the electronic medical records part of it and the scheduling part of it,” Hoffman continued. “I’m also getting to the stage where in a couple or three years, I’m going to want somebody to come in here, and it will be so much easier because they’ll assist with that. I’d like that transition to be smooth, and I’d actually like to get someone to come here and work with them before they took over.”
Source: Ryan McGaughey, The Globe [4/27/21]
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| PODIATRISTS AND THE MILITARY | |
OH Podiatrist Reflects on Two Wars
In the darkness, Don Nicholas DPM’s memories of fighting in Vietnam and Afghanistan blur into a single dream. He served as a Marine guard at the U.S. Embassy in Saigon when the South Vietnamese capital fell in 1975. After leaving the Marines, Nicholas returned to Ohio, went to college, and became a podiatrist. He missed the camaraderie of military life, however, and in 2004, at age 52, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a foot soldier patrolling the mountains of Afghanistan.
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Dr. Don Nicholas |
Dr. Nicholas has confronted for years the ambivalence of such unsatisfying conclusions and allies left behind to face the consequences. “The same thing that happened in Vietnam is happening here,” said Mr. Nicholas, now 68 and living in Green, OH. “They’ll say we accomplished great things,” he said. “I say we accomplished nothing.”
Source: Michael M. Phillips and Nancy A. Youssef, Wall Street Journal [4/26/21]
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| FROM PM's CURRENT ISSUE | |
Several times a week, PM News posts an entire article from a recent issue of our partner, Podiatry Management Magazine. Please note that the views expressed in Podiatry Management Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of PM News or Barry Block.
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Today's Featured Article |
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
Ways to Play the Prior Authorization Game - Part 7
Prior authorizations (PAs) are a pain for physicians. Here are a few things you can do to improve your odds of winning.
7. Remember human resources.
If a patient works at a company that has an HR department, have the patient get them involved. Insurance companies do not want to lose any covered lives so if they find a company is unhappy with the services provided, this can be a very effective weapon.
Source: Linda Girgis, MD, Logan Lutton, Physicians Practice [4/8/21]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Tracking Under a Primary Care Physician
I am questioning the legality of a podiatrist working for our podiatry practice but tracking the physician under a primary care physician’s NPI number. The podiatrist is not enrolled in a lot of insurance plans and cannot as she’s not board certified and some insurance companies are closed to podiatry. This is an established podiatrist.
Are we allowed to track this podiatrist under our group as long as the primary physician is signing off on the charts? This doctor doesn’t qualify to use Q5 or Q6 as she works part-time in the office.
PM News Subscriber
Response: Regardless of whether it is the NPI of a primary care provider or the NPI of another DPM in the same group, the use of the NPI number of another provider is illegal. The provider who provides the service must be the one on the claim.
This is something that many providers encounter when employing an associate who is not credentialed with an insurance company. There are no exceptions when using another NPI number can be used for billing.
Alan Bass, DPM, CPC, Manalapan, NJ
For information on Codingline subscriptions, click here
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A | |
RE: The Passing of Wayne D. Marchand, DPM
Dr. Wayne Marchand, 73, died peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2021, while in the loving arms of his family, following a brief illness. Dr. Marchand entered the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era and was stationed in Greenland as a medic. After serving 4 years, Wayne received a BSRN from Fitchburg State College and then entered Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine where he earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine.
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Dr. Wayne Marchand |
With the endless support of his wife, Debra, Wayne successfully established Auburn Podiatry in 1983 and expanded his practice by opening 2 more offices in Webster and Leominster. "The Chief," as Dr. Marchand was lovingly nicknamed, was adored by his patients.
Source: Worcester Telegram & Gazette via Dr. David Kaufman [4/18/21]
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
From: Adam M Budny, DPM
I think we need more details regarding the hospital situation. I assume the surgeon requesting to use this in surgery is fully privileged and performing other bony procedures such as arthrodeses/osteotomy/ fracture fixation? I cannot imagine a situation where the hardware used in surgery is limited based solely on degree. Is it the OR telling you this? Hospital administration? Department of orthopedics? Is it a cost issue?
I also cannot imagine that implantable devices are delineated in your surgical privileges (i.e. 1st MTPJ fusion can be performed with screws, staples, plates, K-wires, ex-fix, etc.); so what is their rationale for denying the use of bone cement? It is FDA required for use in certain TAR which we do regularly, so I cannot understand the reasoning behind denial of use in other surgery, even if "off-label". A little more information would be helpful.
Adam M Budny, DPM, Altoona, PA
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (RELEVANT RESEARCH) | |
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH
DPMs should not be denied the knowledge, skills, and training to perform Mohs surgery. Are or are we not physicians? Mohs surgery is not only performed on lesions suspected of being melanoma but also on other lesions; for example, those suspected of being basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas. If a lesion is on the foot, we should be able to provide the care needed and, if for example, it is found to be a melanoma, to collaborate with other physicians such as a surgical oncologist to determine if there may be metastasis to lymph nodes or other organ systems. To be denied the training needed to be able to do Mohs surgery on a lesion of the foot makes no sense and diminishes our role as physicians.
In the middle of the 20th century, podiatrists in New York State were denied to perform surgery below the deep fascia; almost all surgery was that involving nails, toes, and rarely the rearfoot. Hospital privileges were rare or required the presence of duly licensed MDs. Surgical residencies (or any other residencies) were very rare. Our transition has been remarkable. We should not be denied training to perform any kind of surgery on the foot and ankle. Every DPM does not need to be qualified to do Mohs surgery as the case is in dermatology when only some members of that specialty elect to receive Mohs training. But DPMs should not be denied the opportunity to acquire the knowledge, skills, and training to perform Mohs surgery.
Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (RELEVANT RESEARCH) - PART 1B | |
From: Steven Kravitz, DPM
I read with interest the post written by Dr. Markinson regarding ungual melanoma and his comments on treatment thereof, including the Mohs procedure. They were professional, well stated, and point to the decisions we make each day with the patients that we treat and the ethical aspects related thereto.
We all seek to be the very best professionals we can be and we all believe that podiatrists, among all healthcare professions, should represent those who are best educated in this anatomical area and concurrently provide the very best care. But that does not mean providing all care necessary. It means, in addition to providing the treatment that we deliver, that we also utilize good judgment and refer to other professionals when appropriate to ensure that each patient is treated as a family member would be, getting the best care each of them deserves.
If I had the unfortunate experience of having an ungual melanoma, I would seek a specialist who had the most experience with Mohs procedure, especially with a historically challenging and potentially life-threatening diagnosis. We all gain by acquiring as much knowledge as we can on any topic related to the treatment that we provide.
Steven Kravitz, DPM, Winston-Salem, NC
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PM ARTICLES) | |
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM
My recent article entitled "It's time for podiatry to say something about DM shoe requirements", left out one very critical element. I, along with several members of the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry, have worked hard over the last few years to develop an ANSI standard for diabetic shoe inserts. This standard was published last year by ANSI as the first American National Standard for Diabetic Footwear. Ultimately, this standard will be submitted to CMS in the expectation to have it incorporated into the Medicare program. My sincerest apologies for not recognizing all those with whom I had the privilege to work with on this standard.
Paul Kesselman, DPM, Woodside, NY
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) | |
From: Don Peacock DPM, MS
I am glad to see that more podiatrists are giving minimalist footwear a chance. I had persistent plantar fasciitis for years and wore all kinds of shoes and inserts/orthotics without relief in symptoms. I gave up running and switched to walking, with symptoms continuing, although improved.
I then tried minimalist shoes and my symptoms resolved. Everyone's foot is different and this logic does not apply to everyone. However, it worked for me. As my foot strengthened, the symptoms resolved. I am pain-free now but mostly walk and run sprints instead of jogging. I follow the exercise guidelines in the Primal Blueprint and I am happy I discovered the benefits of the barefoot lifestyle.
Don Peacock DPM, MS, Whiteville, NC
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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High Heels for High Rollers? |
Source: Sai Sankoh
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MEETING NOTICES AND WEBINARS
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NEED CME CREDITS FAST?
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Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category-1 articles posted
* NY podiatrists whose licenses expire from 3/2/20-5/1/21 may take all credits online
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO
Available immediately. Home visits/ some facilities/ some office hours . Illinois license is required. Existing patients’ base. Net $250-325K. logistics are provided. Full- and part-time are available. Contact vadim.goshko@gmail.com or 312-375-6430.
ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - RICHMOND VIRGINIA
Immediate position available in a well-established (23-year) one doctor - surgical practice attached to a busy orthopedic hospital. Looking for a well-trained surgeon who can perform rearfoot/Charcot reconstructions, Ankle arthroscopy, as well as forefoot surgery. No nursing homes. Candidate needs to be personable and communicates well with patients. Confidence and motivation is a must. Generous salary package with potential partnership. Please email CV, cover letter, and short introduction video to lookingfordocinva@gmail.com
FULL TIME NURSING HOME ASSOCIATE/PARTNER – BUFFALO, NY
Full time nursing home associate/partner wanted to work as part of a team, traveling to Nursing homes and Retirement Homes in Buffalo, NY Opportunity for buy-in, partnership or sale. Please e-mail CV and salary expectations to mpswny@msn.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - BROOKLYN, NY
Busy practice in Brooklyn is looking for a full-time podiatrist with excellent compensation with excellent growth potential. Must be motivated, and hardworking. Send CV to: Footcareemployment@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NYC
Fast growing, multi-location practice in Manhattan, NY is looking for a motivated, driven practitioner to join our surgical, sports-medicine based practice. Our full-time associates average $200k+ per year. If personable, motivated, well-trained, and driven to succeed, we would be delighted to discuss a position with you. We offer a strong compensation package including health benefits and a healthy pension. Please send a cover letter and cv to: footdocnyc@outlook.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN NY
Full time associate looking to live in Western New York. Low cost of living area with multiple city centers a short drive away. Great place to live and raise a family. Great prospect for experienced DPM as well as a new graduate who desires to be part of a team and ultimately wants to be a partner in private practice and transition to ownership. Senior doctor is happy and willing to mentor. Must be willing to merge into an already established protocol based office with state of the art facility and equipment. Practice includes all aspects of podiatry ranging from surgery to routine care. Yourpracticenow@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NASSAU COUNTY, NY
Multiple office practice located in Nassau County, New York seeking motivated, energetic individual to become an Associate in Merrick and Westbury locations. Multi lingual a plus. Leading to partnership and eventual ownership of practices. Please email CV to dgrossman5@optimum.net.
FULL TIME PODIATRIST - NEW JERSEY
We are a fast-growing podiatry practice in New Jersey with multiple locations and Doctors. We are currently looking for a full-time motivated and caring Doctor to join our busy practice. Some benefits include: competitive six-figure salary, generous, guaranteed bonus structure, health insurance (including vision & dental), paid vacation time off, paid malpractice insurance and CME time off. Great prospects for experienced Doctors as well as new Associates. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your Podiatric medical and surgical experience in an office-based practice! If interested, please submit your CV to DrSamofal@PodiatryCenterNJ.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASHVILLE, TN
Searching for a well-trained and ambitious podiatrist for a growing 3 office location practice. Full-time position offering base + bonus. Associate needs to be board certified or board eligible by the ABFAS. Please email cover letter and CV to mendozadpm@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PISCATAWAY/HILLSBOROUGH, NJ
We are a busy podiatry office with locations in Piscataway and Hillsborough, NJ. The office has been in practice for over 31 years and has great reputations. We are looking for motivated and driven full-time and part-time doctors. Candidate will be comfortable meeting doctors and business owners to build referral relationships. We will provide you with every tool needed for your success- treatment protocols, peer networking groups, and a full-time marketing person. drwishnie@stopfootpainfast.com
FULL-TIME or PART-TIME PODIATRIST - DALLAS/FORT WORTH AREA
PSR 24-36 Trained Multi-dimensional, Multi-office group treating a wide range of patients to include: forefoot, rearfoot, diabetic wound care, sports medicine and work-related injuries. Modern offices and equipment. A great opportunity for driven personable individual. Please e-mail Cover letter, CV, short introduction video Email: cnunez1940@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - NAPLES, FL
PSR 24/36, ABFAS certified/qualified for surgical practice. Must have FL license. Hospital privileges available. No HMOs. Naples is an upscale area and wonderful place to work and live. Prefer someone who is personable, team player and hard working. Email CV draustin@gulfcoastfootcare.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 20,000 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 20,000 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 davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS
Established, 35 plus years, growing practice for sale. General podiatry with large volume of wound care, diabetic foot care, and pediatric treatment. Hospital privileges close by. Strong referral base with great growth potential. Contact cscjrlaw@gmail.com or 972-978-6691.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - WESTERN WASHINGTON STATE
33 year old well-rounded surgical/non-surgical practice located north of Seattle, a five minute drive to the local hospital and surgery centers. The practice is blocks from the ocean with plenty of parking and includes a small in-office operatory with a mini C-arm. WApodoffice@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE – NEW JERSEY
15 min. from Philly; 38 y/o practice; all phases of podiatry office and hosp. surgery EMR, digital x-ray, great staff. Grosses 300 K in 2 1/2 days can easily expand to full time. Optional building purchase. Retiring but will stay as long as needed for transition. contact jay195322@gmail.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 20,000 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 20,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
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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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