|
|
|
|
|
PMNews
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 18,643 Subscribers Daily
May 21, 2018 #6,191  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2018- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
|
|
| PM NEWS QUICK POLL RESULTS |
 |
|
Results of last week's poll |
|
|
| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
|
|
What is your medical billing net collection rate?
|
 |
|
|
| PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE | |
GA Podiatrist Discuses Arch Pain in Dancers
Arch pain in dancers is commonly triggered by overuse of the intrinsic foot muscles in the sole of the foot. "Properly strengthening the muscles surrounding this area will prevent fatigue, and thus soreness," says Atlanta-based podiatrist Dr. Frank Sinkoe. Another culprit could be tendonitis of the peroneal tendon on the outer side of the foot, instigated by forcing turnout, Sinkoe says. This tendon, which attaches to the underside of the foot, can aggravate the arch if you're not properly engaging your turnout muscles in the hips, and instead forcing it in your feet.
 |
|
Dr. Frank Sinkoe |
To avoid arch pain, make sure the surrounding muscles are strong and stable. Sinkoe recommends intrinsic foot strengthening exercises like relevés in shank-less pointe shoes, and flexing and pointing the toes using the resistance of a Thera-Band. He also suggests practicing exercises that target the external hip rotators, to help strengthen them enough to properly engage when you turn out.
Source: Chelsea Hamilton, Dance Magazine [5/18/18]
|
|
| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRY IN THE NEWS | |
Custom Orthotics Provide Added Value Vs. Pre-fabs - Canadian Podiatrist
According to an old proverb, there are two things you should always be willing to invest heavily in: a great bed and a comfortable pair of shoes. After all, if you’re not in one, chances are you’re in the other. It’s hard to argue against that advice, but according to New Minas-based podiatrist Caroline Leverett, there might be something to add to it. That something, says Leverett, is a custom foot orthotic.
 |
|
Caroline Leverett |
A foot orthotic is a device that is inserted into your shoe to support, align, prevent, or accommodate foot deformities and improve foot function. “Store-bought inserts may be helpful if you’re just looking for a little bit of extra cushioning or support,” she says, “but that’s really where their benefit ends. Over-the-counter inserts won’t actually correct the biomechanical causes of your pain, and that’s where custom foot orthotics really add value.”
Source: Joel Stoddart, The Chronicle Herald [5/15/18]
|
|
| PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
Loafers Beat Flats for Summer Footwear: CA Podiatrist
Summer footwear is among the worst for your feet, but many people are still likely to sacrifice comfort for fashion. Silvia Arroyo, DPM, a Kaiser Permanente foot and ankle specialist in Baldwin Park, California, says it's important to know which is the better of two evils. When choosing between loafers and flats, go with a rubber-soled loafer, which can provide some arch support and better absorb shock from walking on the pavement, preventing bunions, blisters, and pain.
 |
|
Dr. Silvia Arroyo |
If you're torn between heels and wedges, go with a wider wedge that's not too tall; this reduces the pressure high heels put on your feet, back, and joints. And between slip on slides and flip-flops, flip-flops with a thicker sole are the winner—they'll provide a bit of arch support, which the flat-as-a-pancake varieties won't.
Source: Alyssa Jung, Reader’s Digest [5/18/18]
|
|
| IN THE COURTS | |
Cigna Gets Podiatry Group's ERISA Suit Booted From Court
Cigna Health and Life Insurance Co. doesn't have to face an Employee Retirement Income Security Act [ERISA] suit from a New Jersey podiatry group alleging that the insurer shortchanged it on medical claims, after a New Jersey federal judge has ruled that the medical provider didn't plead enough specifics to support its case.
U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in her letter order pointed out several deficiencies in the pleadings of Ridgewood, New Jersey-based Complete Foot and Ankle, including its failure to identify the nature and dates of the services performed and the terms of the plan the podiatry group said the benefits were owed under. The case is Complete Foot and Ankle v. Cigna Health and Life Insurance Co., case number 2:17-cv-13742, in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Source: Danielle Nichole Smith, Law360 [5/17/18]
|
|
| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
7 Financial Reports Your Practice Needs to Run - Part 4
Most physicians readily admit that classes on how to run a successful medical practice were not part of the curriculum in medical school. While "financial reporting," might not have been a class at your medical school, experts say you need to at least become familiar with understanding some of the basic reports. Here are seven to track.
4. Accounts Receivable Aging Report - "Accounts Receivable (A/R) Aging Reconcilation is a process of categorization of all the amounts owed by patients, including the length of time the amounts have been unpaid. If it is taking longer than 45 days for a claim to be paid, one needs to check to see if the claim has been rejected or denied. Urgent attention is required if a claim has not been paid for 90 days. Claims that exceed 120+ days are rarely collectible." - Ken Hertz, Consultant at MGMA Health Care Consulting Group
Source: Angela Watkins, Physicians Practice
|
|
| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Memory Foam Foot Syndrome
I would like to get some feedback on a phenomenon I have been seeing recently. I am calling it memory foam foot syndrome (MFFS). This is a compilation of foot symptoms that are associated with shoes that are lined with "memory foam" or products of a similar base. The patients are complaining about symptoms such as insertional and non-insertional plantar fasciitis, peroneal and posterior tibial tendinitis, and ankle and leg fatigue (shin splints) with activity. There is often irritation to the toes from trying to wear inserts in these shoes, which are overly padded. Although there is one popular brand which seems to be the main culprit, there are a number of different brands which have similar linings.
The problem stems from the fact that the shoes are purchased because they are "lightweight and spongy and supportive." That's fine for a while, but as people wear them for everything, including work and athletic activity, the memory foam breaks down, and without firmness in the soles, the fatigue and tendon/fascia symptoms start to develop, leading them to require professional help. Most people don't associate their symptoms with the shoes until after they are questioned about any changes in activity or footwear. At that point, it seems to come together. I know these shoes are very popular and for a house-type shoe they would be okay. Is anyone else seeing this in their practice?
Timothy P. Shea, DPM, Concord, CA
|
|
| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
From: Matthew B. Richins, DPM
I had this exact same problem with my billing company. They are happy to bill all your clean claims, but are reluctant to work on denied claims or go after secondary insurers. Think about it. If you got paid the same to debride nails as you did to do a bunionectomy, would the business side of your brain ever want you to step into the OR again? Why would they want (and why would you expect them) to work harder for less money? Once I realized this, I hired a biller and did it all in-house.
After I hired my biller, her first month on the job was to learn the ropes and to figure out how to bill podiatry. I told my billing company that...
Editor's Note: Dr. Richins' extended-length letter can be read here.
|
|
| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1A | |
From: Brant McCartan DPM, MBA, MS
Great MIS recap and points. I am “the younger DPM”, finishing a 3-year residency in 2013. To answer some of your questions, I have noticed about fifty older generation doctors who have never given up MIS - and have been doing so for 30+ years. They are anxious to teach and happy that MIS has a growing acceptance, despite being more so internationally as opposed to locally. I believe the appearance of a resurgence is more due to the industry “getting in the game” (nominally Wright and Trilliant; maybe more companies making screws specifically for MIS style bunion correction).
This is interesting because the originators of the MIS bunion-style surgeries rarely use any hardware, if any, in their procedures! But now that industry is involved, it instantly becomes interesting, and a more acceptable, viable option or technique. Show me the percentages of established lecturers or board members in any medical organization who consult for at least one company, likely more. Money talks.
Brant McCartan DPM, MBA, MS
|
|
| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1B | |
From: Steven Finer, DPM
When I graduated from PCPM in 1976, I was then fortunate to do a residency and join a local hospital. We were trained to do everything open and follow orthopedic thinking. I bought a small practice from an older practitioner. It was obvious that he was doing in-office MIS after taking a weekend course. The x-ray results were uniformly poor and I found a lot of letters from angry patients and investigations from insurance companies. It was clear to me he had little understanding of basic operative procedures, blood chemistry, and standard operative protocol. I steered clear of all of this and used the hospital only. Now years later, with new techniques, changes in insurance, and the blessing of orthopedists doing essentially the same procedures, MIS has found a place in the podiatry world.
Steven Finer, DPM, Philadelphia, PA
|
|
| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
|
| Pompous shoes? (photo: Elena Girelli) |
Source: Daniel-Gonzalez via Virtual Shoe Museum
|
|
MEETING NOTICES
|
|
|
|
PM PODIATRY HALL OF FAME CEREMONY & RECEPTION
July 12, 2018 – Gaylord National Resort - Washington, DC
Honoring Brad Wenstrup, DPM and Dan Vickers
Sponsored by Bako Diagnostics (Bronze), PICA (Bronze), and Sammy Systems (Bronze)
PM News subscribers are invited to see Dr. Wenstrup and Mr. Vickers 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 $100 per ticket to: APMA Educational Foundation Student Scholarship Fund, 9312 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814 or via the APMA Meeting registration form.
|
|
|
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 $219 (less than $15 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, MD, MI, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OH, OR, RI, SC, SD, UT, VA, VT, WV, WI, & WY
Partial required credits can be taken online for AZ, CT, FL, GA, ID, KY, IL, ID, IA, 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
|
|
| CLASSIFIED ADS - PART 1 ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION – RENTON-KIRKLAND-EVERETT, WASHINGTON
This is an immediate opening for associate position. He/she must be highly motivated, hard-working podiatrist who is proficient in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. We have 3 office locations and multiple nursing home facilities. Prefer someone personable and a team player. Please email CV to seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST GRANBY, CT
Well-established, busy podiatric practice seeking a candidate who is dedicated, hardworking, motivated with an excellent bedside manner. The practice sees all age groups and all aspects of podiatry from simple to complex. Seeking a long-term team player dedicated to patient care and has the ability to work independently. Send CV: ctfootspecialists@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PANHANDLE OF FLORIDA
This two office practice serves as the premier provider of foot and ankle services in a three county area. A full service practice with opportunity to expand services. One of the most desirable areas of FL. Competitive salary and benefits. Contact: Mcrosby518@gmail.com FL24
ASSOCIATE POSITION - FREDERICK, MARYLAND
Associate position open for a highly motivated, hard-working podiatrist who is proficient in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. Candidate must have excellent professional and communication skills. We have 2 office locations and are looking to grow our practice. Prefer someone personable and a team player. Podiatrist/s just entering practice or with experience. Please email CV and salary requirements to asmith@footandankle-usa.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN MARYLAND
Looking for an eager podiatrist to join our growing protocol-based practice. We have 2 offices with certified EMR, fully trained staff, full-time marketer, shoe store in each location and digital x-ray machines. Hospital privileges available near each location. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and will be busy from the moment they are hired! We are looking for a well-rounded personable podiatrist. Please send your CV and cover page to footdocs17@gmail.com.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE - MINNESOTA
Looking for podiatrists to see residents in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities throughout Minnesota. Great opportunity for part-time income or full-time income. Positions available immediately! Send inquiries to: phasetwopodiatry@gmail.com
MOBILE PODIATRIST NEEDED - NEW JERSEY
ASSOCIATE POSITION - OCALA, FL
Family Foot and Ankle has an immediate opening for a board qualified/certified surgical podiatrist. Pleasant work environment with state-of-the-art facility and highly skilled staff. High-end compensation and bonus potential. Excellent benefits and relocation reimbursement. Great public schools and community colleges, excellent healthcare facilities, and an hour or two from the U of FL, airports, beaches, Orlando attractions, a national forest and outdoor recreation opportunities. Respond with CV to email: medstaffhr@gmail.com
MULTI-LOCATION GROUP - CHICAGO/NEAR WEST SUBURBS
Seeking an ABFAS Board Certified/Eligible associate. MINIMUM 2 year private practice experience required. Surgical/ortho patient load. Great staff. DME, Rx, Minimal Incision Sx, EMR, digital x-ray, laser, ultrasound, PRP, shockwave & MRI. Top pay, associateship & practice equity available for experienced candidates. Send CV drtsatsos@anklenfoot.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – DAYTON, OH
Group practice seeking PSR-36 board certified/qualified foot and ankle surgeon. Must have excellent clinical and surgical skills and provide quality patient care. Practice equipped with EMR, digital x-ray, PAD, Cutera Laser, ultrasound guided injections, PRP all aspects of DME. Hospital privileges, no nursing homes. Highly trained staff. Send CV, to ohiosurgeons@gmail.com Base salary $120,000 and generous bonus plan, 401k, medical insurance, malpractice, paid vacation, holidays, CME, signing bonus. Partnership opportunity
ASSOCIATE POSITION – BERGEN COUNTY, NJ
Looking for a full-time podiatrist in a very busy, fast-paced practice. Offering competitive salary and bonuses. Lots of sports medicine, excellent support staff, and positive environment. Immediate start date. Please e-mail CV to cma@njfootpain.com , should you have any further questions you may call Gerry 201-523-9489.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SARASOTA FLORIDA
KG Health Partners, the largest podiatric practice in Florida, is revolutionizing the continuum of care for seniors living in more than 200 long-term facilities in Central Florida. We currently have an opening in the Sarasota, FL area. If you are committed to helping seniors live healthy lives, this mobile-based position could be your perfect fit. Our physicians work Monday thru Friday and must maintain active Medicare and Florida licenses. We cover malpractice insurance, medical supplies, travel allowance, etc. Exceptional benefits include paid holidays, vacation, health insurance, and 401K retirement plan. Salary and RVU Bonus Structure. Email CV kgadmin@kghealthpartners.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – JERSEY SHORE, NEW JERSEY
Busy Jersey Shore practice looking for an associate podiatrist who is proficient in Routine Foot Care, Medicare Patients, Primary Podiatric Medicine including Wart Treatment and Nail Surgeries. Please email CV, and salary requirements to lakewoodjobs999@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - NORTHERN MASSACHUSETTS
Looking for well trained, personable physician willing to be a part of the team. Must have completed surgical residency and board qualified/certified. We have 2 busy clinics. No nursing homes. Affiliated with multiple local hospitals. Salary and benefits available. Please send resume to cfdalrymple@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA
Busy practice looking for a full-time associate. PSR-36 Board qualified/certified foot and ankle surgeon. My practice has state-of-the-art equipment with the latest technologies and cutting edge procedures. Candidate must be personable, outgoing and motivated with excellent clinical and surgical skills. Ability to be busy from day one. Partnership opportunity. Must be competent in all areas conservative and surgical treatments of the foot and ankle. Competitive salary and benefits. Email CV to drfootwound@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK
Full time associate position with busy expanding multiple office full scope group on Long Island. Ideal for July 2018 residency/ fellowship graduate or someone with 1-3 years experience looking for future partnership. Board Qualification/ Certification required. Affiliated with NYU/ Winthrop, Northwell and Brookhaven hospitals. Generous package includes salary, bonus, health/ malpractice insurance, paid holidays and vacations. Send CV to drleeb@countryfootcare.com.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,500 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 18,500 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 davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770.
|
| CLASSIFIED ADS PART 2 - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
PRACTICE FOR SALE - WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY
Established practice for sale. Located in a professional office building, the office has consistent cash flow and an established patient based. Practice owner transitioning to retirement. Priced to sell. Contact MCrosby518@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - CONNECTICUT
Well-established part-time practice for sale in a beautiful section of Connecticut. We see all aspects of foot and ankle care and accept most insurance. Owner is looking to be closer to home. Great opportunity with turnkey office including equipment. Transition period, office training and finance options available. Interested please email: ctfootspecialists@yahoo.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SAN FRANCISCO AREA, CALIFORNIA
Established practice in the East Bay in highly visible medical building across from major hospital. All aspects of foot and ankle care including: digital x-ray, Pinpointe laser, MLS laser, Traknet EMR. Turn-key office. Excellent opportunity, Gross $500K+, EastBaypodiatrypractice@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Turn-key practice for sale in West San Bernardino County. Large office with a steady flow of patients. For interested parties, please email: socalpodpractice@gmail.com.
PRACTICE FOR SALE – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Relocating. A well-established, successful solo practice in highly sought after Los Angeles county. Grossing over $300k for two decades, averaging 300 patients per month, while seeing patients 3 days a week. Considerable opportunity for growth. Accepting all major insurance carriers with high % of cash-based patients. All aspects of foot and ankle medical care, including diabetic foot care, sports medicine, trauma, and office based surgeries. Great front door parking and high visibility building signage. An excellent opportunity for a new grad! Please contact me with serious inquiries only. Send CV and letter of intent to socalpodiatrypractice@gmail.com
PRACTICES WANTED
Buying podiatry practices in Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, Ohio, Pennsylvania, NYC, New Jersey, Texas, Kentucky, Georgia, South Carolina. Looking to buy podiatry practices large, small, rural or urban. Podiatrists who are looking to retire soon or in the near future, or wanting to join a larger group to handle business operations can contact us at podiatrymanagementinc@gmail.com. Competitive compensation and benefits package for those who would like to sell and work within the larger company.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,500 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 18,500 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 davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770.
|
| 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.
| | Guidelines |
- 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.
| |
|
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
|
| |
|
|
|
