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PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 18,478 Subscribers Daily
May 07, 2019 #6.412 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2019- 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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Do you send appointment reminders to patients?
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
90 Percent of Bunions are Genetic: NY Podiatrist
A bunions is s large bump on the side of the big toe, noticeable in grandma’s shoe. But, says Dr. Ernest Isaacson, "Despite the common misconception, this condition is not caused by shoes, rather by genetics, and over 90 percent of those with bunions can identify a family member with the condition.
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Dr. Ernest Isaacson |
Conservative treatment consists of using wider shoes and anti-inflammatory medicine, which should accommodate the condition adequately for most patients. For those whom all shoes are uncomfortable or quality of life is limited, surgery works quite well, with very good predictable outcomes, very low complication rates, and surprisingly little downtime."
Source: Aly Walansky, MSN [4/24/19]
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PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY |
NC Podiatrists Help Train Medical Assistants
Cleveland County now has new medical assistants who are ready to enter the field of medicine due in part to generous medical offices that agreed to team up with educator, Collette Hill, to help train students with the skills necessary to perform duties in various medical specialties. Local medical offices, including Foothills Podiatry PA have helped to train students to become multi-skilled healthcare professionals qualified to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures under the direction of a physician.
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(L-R) Drs. Gretchen Lawrence and Jeff Mauney, student Karyn Wilson and Dr. Ron Maskarinec |
Both clinical and academic coursework has led to the ability of these students to obtain an associates degree in applied sciences from Cleveland Community College. The school recently obtained accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) to ensure the program produces qualified professionals by following strict guidelines and standards to prepare students for a job in this career field. The commission reviews and accredits education programs in thirty health science occupations across the United States.
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PODIATRIC PRODUCTS AND SERVICES IN THE NEWS |
DoctorInsole Custom-Grade Orthotic Insoles Receive Medicare Approval
DoctorInsole, a custom-grade OTC orthotic insole manufacturer providing a corrective affordable line of products to the masses through its premium orthotic insoles, has announced its new Medicare approval (code L3040). This allows medical professionals to bill for reimbursement for their custom-grade orthotic insoles dispensed to their patients.
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Dr. Robert Joseph |
DoctorInsole specializes in orthotic insoles that feature a pressure-sensitive memory foam layer that shapes to the contours of the foot while maintaining a shell that positions the body in a neutral, biomechanically optimal position. The idea was born using a unique blend of general science, locomotive biomechanics, and patient research by Robert Joseph, DPM, a leading Los Angeles foot and ankle surgeon.
Source: Digital Journal [5/4/19]
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PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY |
When to Consider Succession Planning - Part 3
You might feel a little uneasy about starting the discussion about selling your medical practice. Your practice is your baby, and the thought of letting go can be overwhelming. However, the truth is that failing to plan is a plan to fail when it comes to your practice exit strategy. Everyone thinks of their future, but they don’t always take active steps in the present to prepare for what they want tomorrow. Here are several reasons why you should start the succession planning conversation today.
3. You don’t have a successor - You’re a great leader, and you run your practice like a well-oiled machine. But what happens when you’re gone? If you find your employed physicians aren’t interested in taking over, or if you don’t have any employed physicians, you need to know what you will do when it’s time to leave your practice.
Source: Nick Hernandez, Physicians Practice [4/30/19]
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CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Ultimate Hammertoe Repair
I have a patient with a rigid hammertoe deformity. I am expecting that it is going to take everything in my arsenal to correct it. I am planning to perform a percutaneous flexor tenotomy, a lengthening of the extensor tendons, a metatarsophalageal joint capsulotomy with release of the collateral ligaments, and an arthroplasty at the proximal interphalangeal joint with placement of an implant and precutaneous K-wire. Can I bill for all of these procedures?
Archived Codingline Question
Response: The description of CPT 28285 is “correction of hammertoe.” It is not arthroplasty. Hence steps required to “correct” the hammertoe are bundled under that code. This would include both bone and soft tissue work. Work at the MPJ may be payable per your operative report. If the procedure performed there was a simple T/C, then more than likely that would be included as well (vs. a complete open 360 degree release). Sometimes the work required is more than average repair; other times it might be easier. If you feel the work is significantly above the norm, then consider appending CPT 28285 with a -22 modifier.
Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA
For information on Codingline subscriptions, click here
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) |
RE: The Passing of Jens Frederik Jarlshoi Birkholm, DPM
Jens Frederik Jarlshoi Birkholm quietly slipped away at SB Cottage Hospital on Sunday, the 28th of April, 2019, at the age of 80. Attending the California College of Podiatric Medicine, he became a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine in 1971.
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Dr. Jens Birkholm |
He opened his practice in Santa Maria where he had a successful career as a podiatric surgeon for the next 48 years. He continued working right up until the end, even after selling his practice in 2018 to Brandon Slade, DPM.
Source: Santa Maria Times [5/4/19]
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (RELEVANT RESEARCH) - PART 1A |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Reading Dr. Landsman's comment on Dr. Jacobs' comment reminds me of the story of a Rabbi who was called to counsel a married couple. He listened to the husband’s story and said he was right and then listened to the wife's story and said she was right. A bystander overhearing the conversation said, "Rabbi how can both of them be right?" The rabbi turned to him and said, "You are also right."
Dr. Landsman is correct in that the study quoted by Dr. Levy was based on a fairly small number of patients. With a sample being so small, incorrect conclusions can occur. On the other hand, Dr. Jacobs is also right. In our practice, many patients have come in over the years having paid thousands of dollars for laser treatments of their nails and pointed their finger at us saying, "you podiatrists are all a bunch of crooks."
Could those patients have been inappropriately worked up and treated for some other ailment that causes nail thickening? It’s possible. Was the administrator of the treatment less than competent? That is also possible. Could it be that the therapy itself is not always effective? That too is possible. I hope that there could be more studies involving thousands of patients and only then will we be certain whether laser therapy for onychomycosis is clinically effective or a sham.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (R) |
From: Richard Silverstein, DPM
I wholeheartedly agree that we must be very careful when treating onychomycosis with lasers. If there is an active tinea infection, it must be treated along with the onychomycosis if optimal results are desired. Culture results demonstrating the presence of a fungal infection are always an appropriate step prior to initiating therapy.
Why is it we must be on guard especially in our diabetic and vascularly compromised patients? I presume it is to prevent a burn from the heat build-up of a thermal laser. Our diabetics who may have neuropathy may not be able to tell us that something hurts when heat is...
Editor's note: Dr. Silverstein's extended-length letter can be read here.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (RELEVANT RESEARCH) - PART 1C |
From: Allen Jacobs, DPM
As do many in our profession, I hold Dr. Adam Landsman with the highest regard. His commentary is well taken and deserves consideration. Dr. Landsman, however, fails to inform the readers of his research and consulting relationship with laser manufacturers from which relations he was rightfully paid. This is the very type of potential bias and conflict of interest which concerns me. Dr. Landsman’s published works on the subject of laser management of onychomycosis are worthy of review and consideration. His insight and conclusions are always of import to our profession.
Dr. Landsman dutifully notes that lasers are cited as ineffective for the treatment of onychomycosis because the condition is "incurable". Why then suggest that lasers effect a cure? In point of fact, FDA published guidelines call for ...
Editor's note: Dr. Jacobs' extended-length letter can be read here.
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YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP |
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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Suited for a skeleton? |
Source: Naim Josefi and Souzan Youssouf via Virtual Shoe Museum
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MEETING NOTICES
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NEED CME CREDITS FAST?
PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn up to 50 Continuing Education Contact Hours (CECH) Online
Earn 15 CECH only $229 (less than $16 per CECH)
(Only $15 per credit) http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm
All required credits can be taken online for AL, AK, AR, CA, CO, DE, HI, IN, KS, LA, MA, ME, MI, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OH, OR, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, VT, WV, and WI
Partial required credits can be taken online for AZ, FL, GA, ID, KY, IL, ID, IA, MD, MN, MO, MT, NE, NH, NY, NC, OK, PA, PR, TN, TX, WA, and DC
Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category-1 articles posted
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CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY
Seeking hard working, part-time associate for established podiatry practice in Westchester county. Must be comfortable with all aspects of podiatry and EMR. If interested please email your CV to aqfootcare15@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WESTERN PA
Well-established podiatry practice in Western, PA looking for a full-time podiatrist to join their team. Position will involve seeing patients at multiple hospitals, wound care centers and satellite offices. Basic qualification: Graduation from an accredited medical school and completed accredited residency program. Board Certified/Qualified. Certificate/license medical license to practice in State of Pennsylvania. We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package to our team members. email CV to: dysteindpm@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MASSACHUSETTS
Well-established, very busy, hospital-based practice located just north of Boston seeking full-time DPM. Applicant must be ABFAS Board Qualified/Certified, comfortable with rearfoot surgery and have interest in wound care. We are well integrated within the medical community and are active in both hospital in-patient care and out-patient clinic. Excellent referral base and high volume of new patients. Competitive compensation and benefits package. Excellent opportunity for qualified candidate.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – DALLAS, TX AREA
Full time or part time podiatry associate position for 3 location practice south of Dallas. Candidate must have completed a 2-3 year surgical residency. Offering a competitive salary with bonuses and benefits. Email CV and cover letter to podiatrysbest@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PHOENIX ARIZONA METRO AREA
Well established practice of 45+ years located on large hospital campus seeking an associate for its rapidly growing and expanding offices. Must be board qualified/certified by ABFAS. Looking for someone with great people skills who is dedicated to putting in the effort to grow the practice. No nursing homes. You must have AZ podiatry license. Please send cover letter and CV to: associatepodiatry@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – HOUSTON, TX
Established Houston practice seeking motivated, hard-working recent graduate for associate position in all aspects of podiatry. Long-term plan includes partnership. Send CV to dpm2docs@gmail.com.
POSITION AVAILABLE – MARYLAND
One owner, group practice looking to hire business minded associate for buy-in/buy-out relationship. I will teach you to become a top earner in the field, with buy-in and buy-out agreement after 3 years. Salary with bonus incentive including full benefits. I am ready to slow down and sell 2 of the 3 locations in three years and eventually sell the 3rd location and become an employee working a few days a week. I own two of the office locations, so real estate investments are possible. This is a unique opportunity, you do not want to miss. www.AtlanticFootSurgeons.com. drhenrock@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – ALABAMA
Love the beach? Busy, established practice located in a coastal community is looking for a full-time or part-time podiatrist! ABFAS board qualification or certification is required. Must be motivated, hardworking, positive, and dedicated to growing the practice and individual career and reputation. Must have great people skills, caring bedside manner, and positive demeanor. Must work well with staff and local medical community. Competitive pay and partnership track available. Send CV and contact information to: manager@southbaldwinpodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - STATE COLLEGE, PA
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH FLORIDA
Full time position for well-trained ABFAS certified or qualified physician. Office and Hospital based practice. EMR, MRI, US, digital x-ray. Busy group practice. Supportive company culture. Competitive salary and benefits. Send your CV to drdaz2000@gmail.com
FULL OR PART-TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE - GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA
Home Foot Care, Inc. Mobile Podiatrists needed to see homebound patients in San Bernardino/Riverside, Lancaster/Palmdale, Ventura/Oxnard, Los Angeles/San Fernando Valley. Choose your own days/hours, excellent monthly compensation, cloud-based EHR, dedicated support staff. If interested, email CV to: homefootcare@hotmail.com our website: www.footdocs2u.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE - PENNSYLVANIA, VERMONT AND CONNECTICUT
Rapidly expanding company serving Skilled Nursing Facilities, Nursing Homes, and Assisted Living Centers is looking for doctors for full or part time positions. Openings include, but are not limited to, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Connecticut. Positions available immediately. Send inquiries and CV to: phasetwopodiatry@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST POSITION WITH OPTION TO BUY – MARYLAND
Podiatry practice located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland seeks full time associate. Maryland licensure a must; Board certification preferred. All candidates considered. CV may be sent to tidewaterpodiatry@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LONG ISLAND/QUEENS
Advanced Podiatry Seeking Full Time DPM for upscale practices located at the Americana Manhasset, Huntington and Queens. Excellent work environment and company culture. Latest technology with digital x-ray, laser, EHR, Ultrasound, the latest Apple software and iPads. Must be surgically trained, motivated, with a great work ethic. Very competitive salary with significant upside. Visit www.LIFootCare.com and email eavieiradpm@gmail.com for more info.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FL
Seeking associate for busy foot/ankle practice. ABFAS cert or qual. Great interpersonal skills and willing to work as a team, follow company protocols and systems. Office fully EMR, digital x-rays, Ultrasound, DME. Base salary, bonus, health, 401K, etc. Email: DrLam@naplespodiatrist.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - RICHARDSON, TEXAS
Position available with future opportunity for buy-in/buy-out relationship in a forty year old established practice . Looking for a motivated , ethical associate with excellent surgical and communication skills. Excellent location in Richardson , Texas - a suburb of Dallas ranked #9 in the Top 100 Cities for Raising a Family. Will wait until July/August for the right candidate. grfootdoc@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WISCONSIN
Established solo female practitioner seeking a well-rounded associate to provide all aspects of foot and ankle care. Candidate must be friendly, motivated, and dedicated to growing the practice. Competitive compensation with 401K, health insurance, malpractice, vacation, etc. Large referral base in a rapidly growing area. Please send inquiries to: drjulie@greenvillefac.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - AUGUSTA, GA
Established group practice seeking PSR 36, Associate lead to Partnership/Ownership. EMR, PADNet, DME, full range of Hospital privileges. All phases of podiatry with wide open opportunities in rearfoot and ankle. Senior doctor retiring this year. Reply: kkronowski1@comcast.net
PODIATRIST POSITION – SOUTH CAROLINA
Work and live in one of the greatest states for outdoor fun and recreation. Centrally located 2 hours from the mountains and the ocean, well established practice of 21 years seeking an associate for its rapidly growing and expanding office. Must be board qualified/certified by ABFAS. Looking for someone with great people skills who is dedicated to putting in the effort to grow the practice. No traveling, no nursing homes. You must have SC podiatry license and next test date is June 1. Please send cover letter and CV to docdan@earthlink.net
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,000 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 18,000 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 |
SUBLET — HINSDALE OR VERNON HILLS ILLINOIS
Fully equipped podiatry offices available to Sublet. 3 treatment rooms/procedure room/digital X-ray. Perfect for part-time satellite office. Please send inquiries to Shaarlz@aol.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
Well established 30 year podiatry practice on the Coast of Texas. Busy practice with low overhead not far from large medical complex. Excellent growth potential with large active patient base. Large physician and patient referral base. Family practice residents rotate through office. Email jrgouin@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS
30 year established surgical practice East Central Illinois. Re-locating. Turn-key operation with 3 treatment rooms and surgical suite. Certified EHR. Generates $450K, price reduced to $250K (includes real estate currently listed for $150K with a local agent ). Call 217-549-1887 or email drjoe@myfeethurt.net
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,000 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 18,000 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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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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