The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

May 21, 2012 #4,467 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2012- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

Salon Should be Autoclaving Instruments: DC Podiatrist

What precautions should someone getting a manicure or pedicure take before heading off to the salon? First and foremost, it's important to bring your own instruments -- clippers, nail files, pumice stones -- to avoid picking up germs from another client, says Washington podiatrist Dr. Erika Schwartz: "If salon employees are just dipping their instruments in some kind of solution, that's not going to kill bacteria and fungus," she advises. 

Dr. Erika Schwartz

"They should be using an autoclave, a type of machine for sterilizing instruments."

Source: Carolyn Butler, The Washington Post, [5/18/12]

NY Podiatrists Win First Place In Poster Competition

The poster presentation of Drs. Eliezer Eisenberger and Richard Bauer, both PGY-2 residents at Saint Barnabas Hospital, has been awarded first place among 63 other presentations at the annual residents research day. Saint Barnabas Hospital is a level-1 trauma center in Bronx, NY. 

(L-R) Drs. Eliezer Eisenberger and Richard Bauer

The research regarding the use of a 1064nm wavelength medical laser for the treatment of onychomycosis was conducted over the past 18 months under the supervision of residency director Emilio Goez, DPM. The promising results of this study will be presented at the APMA Scientific Meeting in Washington, DC this August.

NY Podiatrist Publishes in a Peer-Reviewed Journal

Dr. Tahir Khan, a first-year resident at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY recently published a letter in the prestigious peer reviewed Journal of Health Affairs. Dr. Khan’s article was in response to the January issue of Health Affairs that dealt with the growing epidemic of diabetes, but failed to include any comments from podiatrists.

Dr. Tahir Khan

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin and Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (Scholl College) class of 2011, Khan previously published a prospective, randomized, control trial study "Laboratory in a box: wearable sensors and its advantages for gait analysis" in Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc.

NY Podiatrist to Host Zumbathon Charity Event

Beth Hochstein is determined to take her passion for dance and fitness and turn it into a successful fundraising opportunity. Dr. Hochstein was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease four and a half years ago at the age of 36. After retiring from her career as a podiatrist and foot surgeon in July 2010, she became a huge fan of Zumba® Fitness as a form of exercise to reduce her symptoms. Shortly after, she became a licensed Zumba Instructor. 

Dr. Beth Hochstein (C) at Zumbathon

Beth has raised over $60,000 for The Michael J. Fox Foundation, and her efforts include hosting a Zumbathon® charity event for Team Fox in Long Island, N.Y. last fall. After her initial success, she set her goal even higher. Beth contacted Zumba® Fitness’ Home Office and asked them to partner with Team Fox. On June 29th, 2012, Zumba® Fitness and Team Fox will partner for a very special Zumbathon charity event at Roseland Ballroom in New York City.

Source: Miranda Lanzillotti, The Michael J. Fox Foundation Blog {5/17/12]

UK Practitioner Celebrates 40 Years in Practice

Forty years after setting up his business on Letterkenny’s Lower Main Street, Eamon Harkin continues to put his best foot forward to ensure that others can as well. The well known chiropodist became only the third in his craft to receive the prestigious Pat Mortell award from the Irish Chirodopist and Podiatrist Organization along with a special Fellowship as one of the country’s foremost practitioners. 

Eamon Harkin

“I love the work I do. It’s great to be able to alleviate people’s problems,” he says of a profession that may not always get the credit it deserves.The award and Fellowship announced last October is one that underlines the steps both he and his business – not to mention those who have received treatment there – have made over the years.

Source: Donegal Democrat [5/19/12]

FL Podiatrist Treats TaloTarsal Dislocation in Young Singer

Andrew Levy, DPM, a Master HyProCure® surgeon in Florida, recently had the opportunity to help a young patient stop suffering from the effects of talotarsal displacement. “When I was walking, there was pain and sometimes when I ran, it was even worse,” said the energetic young singer. Flexible talotarsal dislocation is a common foot imbalance that throws both the foot and the entire body out of alignment. It affects millions of people of all ages and can be the direct cause of many symptoms and secondary conditions, including overpronation, bunions, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, hip pain, back pain, and even problems in the neck and shoulders.

Dr. Andrew Levy and patient

After trying other conservative options with no end to her pain, Dr. Levy performed EOTTS with HyProCure®. “I had alien feet,” exclaimed the patient, but “now I feel like I have normal feet and I’m a normal person.” The young girl is walking normally and without pain, allowing her to return to favorite activities such as singing in her school chorus and shopping at the mall.

Query: Shredding Documents

Now that my office has made the long and arduous transition into complete EMR, and we are in the process of going totally paperless, I just hired a shredding company and got a large bin installed in the office. The company will come once a month, empty it, and shred the documents for me. The question I have is: after we place whole sheets of paper into this locked bin, am I now still liable should something happen when these documents leave my office?

Frank Lattarulo, DPM, NY, NY

Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. HIPAA requires that you take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized disclosures of PHI. One of the functions of a business associate agreement (BAA) is to have the shredding company assume this same responsibility. The BAA should contain a clause in which they indemnify you againat any negligence on their part.

Query: Replacement Sources for Burrs

Replacement burrs "Old Smoothie" and others from the ERN company are no longer available because they are out of business! Can anyone suggest an alternative source for these burrs?

G. Stephen Gill, DPM, MBA, Denver, CO

RE: Lamisil, Tamoxifen Drug-to-Drug Interaction
From: Craig Herman, DPM

I learned something new today that I think all podiatrists should know. About 6 weeks ago, I started a patient on Lamisil. Our electronic record system (E-Clinical Works) checks for any interactions between medications and no warnings were issued. The patient came back today for her 6 week visit, at which time I planned on drawing blood for hepatic function and a CBC. The patient proceeded to tell me that her oncologist told her to stop taking the Lamisil immediately because it would decrease the effect of Tamoxifen by interfering with how the body activates Tamoxifen.

I found this very disturbing and potentially very dangerous. We had always learned about the effects of inhibiting CYP450.  It had been...

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

RE: Soft Tissue Mass (Bryan Markinson, DPM)
From: Narmo L. Ortiz, Jr., DPM

I was reading with interest the discussion and opinions concerning Dr. Lagman's original query, and I feel compelled to say this: Dr. Markinson does not need to apologize to anyone for writing what I think was wise, professional, and educated advice, and no one should take it is a criticism on their ability or amount of care and concern for their patient.

It is what it is: Dr. Markinson gave, as always, an accurate description of what should and needs to be done for the patient in question. I know that I am not alone in thanking him for his invaluable contributions to this forum, and to our profession at large.

Narmo L. Ortiz, Jr., DPM, Marietta, GA, nlortizdpm@embarqmail.com

RE: MOC in Podiatry
From: Elliott Hudson, DPM

This week, a colleague and I were at our clinical staff meeting in which the subject of MOC (Maintenance of Certification) was the main agenda item. With the continued push of medicine towards quality measures, and related to future reimbursement, it was decided that all staff members will have to participate in their specialty MOC. This does not relate to just taking your re-certification exam, but rather to a 4-part process of continuous learning. 

This was rolled out by the American Board of Medical Specialties in 2006, and is being implemented in different ways across each specialty board. To my understanding, we as podiatrists have no such system.  Does anyone have knowledge that this process is in development or on the radar for our boards? I believe this will become an issue for providers in the future.
 
Elliott Hudson, DPM, Round Rock, TX, ehudson_dpm@yahoo.com

RE: Medical Boards' Actions Against Docs up 6.8% in 2011
From: Robert Kornfeld, DPM

The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) is a private 501(c)(6) trade association that purports to represent the seventy state medical and osteopathic boards of the U.S. and its territories, and co-sponsors the United States Medical Licensing Examination. It is tremendously powerful: whatever it suggests in terms of medical care policies are often adopted by the state medical boards. A private trade association with no public funding, transparency, or accountability arguably has the power to interpret state medical law and grant or revoke medical licenses!

Each of the fifty states, as well as the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories, has laws that define the practice of medicine; each one delegates the authority to enforce those laws to a state medical board. State medical boards also adopt policies and create guidelines related to...

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA

We are hiring podiatrists for part-time positions in California: San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose. Duties: Diagnosis and treatment of Onycomycosis using Pinpointe laser in our facilities (training at the clinic); flexible schedule. Qualifications: Valid DPM California license; active medical liability insurance. email CV to ofer@lasernailtherapy.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WORCESTER MASSACHUSETTS

Podiatry practice in Worcester Massachusetts is looking for an associate podiatrist. Busy 2-person practice. High surgical numbers. No nursing homes. Call to hear free recorded message for more information. Call 641.715.3800 Access Code 32299 and message 4 to learn about the practice. Visit our website www.centralmasspodiatry.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 to his own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Looking to hire an associate who is caring, friendly, and holds a patient in the highest regard. I am a single practitioner with a large podiatry practice in Tampa, FL. Will provide an outstanding salary with additional incentives, excellent healthcare benefits, retirement and cell phone. Please email resume to Heliodiety@aol.com or fax to 813-854-6105.

Very busy, two location group practice seeking a full-time, self motivated and hard working podiatry associate. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please email CV to: footcare4all@aol.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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MANHATTAN

Podiatrist needed for busy state-of-the-art offices in Manhattan. Offices are located near Penn and Grand Central Station. 10+ years experience only and an out-of-network doctor for most insurances. Please forward your information and CV to: roni@myfcny.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BEAUTIFUL LONG ISLAND

Business-oriented, mature Board eligible/certified podiatrist who is not just looking for a job, but a secure future. Buy-out of practice will be available. Practice does in excess of $500K. 2 hospitals available. No nursing homes, no Medicaid. Competitive package. Please fax CV to 631-581-0857.

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - MULTIPLE STATES

Podiatrist Needed in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Colorado, Wisconsin, 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 – ANCHORAGE, ALASKA

Associate wanted for hospital-based podiatry group practice. Full scope of practice. Surgical residency 24month+. Outstanding opportunity, work environment, and recreational pursuits. Fax CV to 907-562-5195, please call 907-562-4958, e-mail us at contactus@alaskapodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA

Office and hospital-based podiatry group in Bakersfield, CA seeks highly-trained surgical associate to join us. Prefer surgeon with trauma and Charcot reconstructive experience. Staff privileges with 5 local hospitals. Offering health insurance, CME allowance and competitive salary. Must be PSR 24/36 trained, ethical and thoughtful when treating patients. Please forward CV to: aghams2@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW JERSEY

Immediate opening for a full-time podiatrist in a rapidly expanding multi-office practice in central New Jersey. Well established referral base with full admitting hospital privileges. Availability to become part owner of a multi-room, multi-specialty ASC. Excellent opportunity for the right doctor with potential to achieve $200K in the first year. Wonderful working conditions. Applicant must have at least PSR-24 surgical training. Valid NJ license and Medicare number is required. Applicant should also be familiar and competent in biomechanics, trauma, ESWT, PRP, wound care, and ultrasound diagnostics. Participating insurance #'s a plus. Please fax resume to:(609) 259-6637.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS

Full and Part-time opportunity to provide conservative, ethical podiatric care to residents in long-term care throughout Illinois . Full time position includes health, disability, 401, auto/travel expenses. Ideal Full-time candidate would be willing to travel 2-3 days per month, or be located in central or downstate IL. We have a 30 year history of providing exceptional care and service, with appropriate reimbursement. Please email queries or resumes to gh@podiatryplus.net.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Great opportunity for new practitioner or experienced physician looking to relocate to Florida. Practice currently owned by physicians with a solid patient base after over 12 yrs of practice in this area. Current physicians transitioning to part-time (and eventual retirement from the practice) in order to pursue other business opportunities. Seeking a friendly, dependable, independent ‘go-getter’ who can transition in as seamlessly as possible with staff and patients while maintaining the high-quality foot/ankle care on which our reputation was founded. Start turn-key without need of a bank loan. For more information or to express your interest, please forward your CV to: podiatristsearch@gmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: EPAT 

(Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment) for sale. D-Actor 200. This machine is still new. Purchased in late 2011.( new machines>30K). It is the conservative alternative to surgery. Treats Plantar Fasciitis, Heel spurs, Achilles Tendonitis, Joint pain. Great Buy. $19,995. Please call 713-541-3199 for more information. or email contactus@houstonfootankle.com

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. 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

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Established 40+ year old well-rounded practice of both surgical and non-surgical care with special emphasis on sports medicine. Medicare and BS/private insurance base, no Medical assistance. Needs to transition to a confident well trained individual. Purchase can include building. Contact:  podiatrypracticesale@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - HOUSTON, TEXAS

30 year old busy, progressive practice for sale with an excellent reputation and well established, diverse referral base. Well trained, dedicated, supportive staff. Excellent cash flow ($400K net income after overhead). EMR, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound. Free standing building also available with large outdoor sign. Owner retiring and willing to stay part time during transition. Contact:  mcrosby@picagroup.com or call (888) 776 2430.

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 referred out. Financing available. Call 800-983-4194, or email: contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

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.

• To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
• Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
• Notes must be in the following form:
  RE: (Topic)
  From: (your name, DPM)
  Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
  Your name, DPM City/State
• Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.