The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 11,000 Podiatrists Daily

May 22, 2009 #3,552 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2009- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

Flip Flops Lack Necessary Support for Everyday Use: MN Podiatrist

One person’s comfort may be another person’s pain. Dr. Karen Rouw, a podiatrist at Central Minnesota Foot & Ankle Clinic in St. Cloud, has seen plenty of patients with foot problems. “In recent years, flip-flops have become the norm for so many people — not just teenagers,” Rouw said. “People will use them just as regular shoes, and yeah, they’re cheap and air out your toes, but you don’t have the support and are at more risk at developing foot problems.”

Dr. Karen Rouw

They may be supremely comfortable for some but — constructed of a flat piece of rubber or leather and held on the foot by a thin strip —flip-flops can be a headache. “There are people who need more support than their body is able to give naturally. If you have a flatter foot with very little arch, you’re more prone to having foot pain,” Rouw said.

Flip-flops do protect the foot from, say, the hot sand of a beach or the grit found poolside, and they can also help prevent the spread of athlete’s foot or plantar warts. Rouw said, “But you’re more prone to injury because you’ve got exposed toes.”

Source: Frank Lee, St. Cloud Times [5/19/09]

IN Podiatrist to Compete in World Beard and Mustache Competition

This week there may be more grizzly beards than grizzly bears in Alaska. And Evansville podiatrist Dave Powell — whose imposing tufts of chin hair can reach his ears — hopes it’s a good omen for his Team USA. The 6-foot-2 Powell, who has cultivated his salt-and-pepper whiskers for years, flew to Anchorage today to compete in Saturday’s World Beard and Mustache Competition in downtown Anchorage.

Dr. David Powell and Sandi Leffler, his Podiatric Assistant

This Olympics of facial hair —a big league of beards — takes place every two years, the last time in Brighton, England, in 2007. Powell plans a “slight diversion” from the “Tombstone cowboy” look that earned him a fourth-place finish in Brighton in the Partial Beard Freestyle category. This time he’s curling the tips down, sort of like “a whale with a tail.” A beluga beard? Why not, he says, laughing. “Don’t people go to Alaska to see whales? Maybe I can be a hometown favorite.”

Source: Rich Davis, Evansville Courier and Press [5/19/09]

NY Podiatrist Loses License for Fraudulent Billing

Steven Erik Ginsberg, DPM; Bronx, NY

Sanction: Application to surrender license granted.

Summary: Licensee admitted to the charge of submitting 6 false podiatric claims to a health care benefit program in February 2007 for podiatric services which he knew had not been rendered.

Source: NY State Education Department [5/18/09]

Docs Seeing Fewer Patients During Recession: Report

In general, family physicians are seeing fewer patients—often because of canceled appointments or skipped preventive care—and more patients are expressing concern about their ability to pay for healthcare services, according to a report released by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Of the 505 AAFP members who completed an online survey, 89% reported more of their patients expressed concern about their ability to pay for healthcare; 54% reported seeing fewer patients since January 2008 (13% reported an increase); 73% reported seeing an increase in uninsured patients (38% and 14% reported seeing more Medicaid and Medicare patients); and 71% reported an increase in providing uncompensated care.

Also, 73% reported seeing evidence of patients cutting prescription doses; 60% reported seeing health problems caused by patients foregoing needed preventive care; and 35% have seen children miss regularly scheduled pediatric-care checkups. Some 44% reported how financial stresses are leading them to cut or consider cutting services or reducing staff.

Source: Andis Robeznieks, Modern Healthcare [519/09]

Query: MTI 527 Podiatry Chairs

I would like to receive some reviews from my colleagues on the MTI 527 podiatry chairs. Are these chairs comparable to the Midmark chairs? All responses are appreciated.
 
Lawann Scott, DPM, Kansas City, MO
 

RE: Digital Processors (Barry A. Wertheimer, DPM)
From: John Etcheverry, DPM, Jeffrey Kass, DPM

We have had a digital processor and digital x-ray from 20/20 imaging for a year and a half now. We could not be happier with the product and support. 
 
John Etcheverry, DPM Bakersfield, CA,  jetch@footnankle.com

I love my digital processor. I have an ICRCO 3600SF. They came and installed and trained me the same day. I have not had any problems with it. I have had it for one year so far. It is a flat plate scan, so you slide the door open, place the cassette in and close the door and "bam", in approx 60 seconds you get your image on the computer. Mine sits on a countertop, though you can hang it on a wall or have a stand for it.  This was one of the best investments I made since practicing. My films are always perfect. You can underexpose or overexpose and essentially correct for this on the computer. Expect the price to be around mid 20 grand. I love the fact I can e-mail my films for second opinions with colleagues, and making copies of films is easy.

First year software support is included. The company is in California, so the time zone can be tricky if you have questions. But once you get a hold of them - the support is excellent. What I found when doing my homework on these units is that there are many companies out there. There are only three that promote to podiatry. All-Pro, ICRCO, and now Sigma are the main players in podiatry.  However, Kodak, Fujitsu, etc. all make units as well. If you have any questions on the ICRCO - feel free to contact me. 

Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY, Jeffckass@aol.com
 

RE: Scheduling Nail Debridements (Joe Gonzalez, DPM)
From: Kevin McDonald, DPM

In my area, toenail debridement is deemed medically necessary (i.e. covered by Medicare) when there is associated bacterial infection or pain that significantly limits ambulation. Prophylactic nail debridement of non-painful, non-infected nails is a non-covered (cash)service.
 
Therefore, I cannot justify regularly scheduled visits (such as every 91 days) for nail debridement since it can take a year or longer for pain and/or infection to develop in toes after the nails have been completely debrided down to the nail beds and I have no way of knowing when or if this will indeed occur.
 
Using the "no reappointments for nail debridements" modus operandi, in a blue collar town with plenty of senior citizens, less than 3 % of my patients are seen for codes 11720 and 11721. Podiatric practices where the "non-covered routine foot care" exceeds the "covered routine foot care" tend to have happier and healthier podiatrists.
 
I have not seen too many practices that are "clogged" with cash paying patients but if that is your problem, you could try raising your fees $5.00 per month until the demand slackens.
 
Kevin McDonald, DPM, Kannapolis, NC, mickeyfeets@yahoo.com
 

RE: EMR and CCHIT (Joseph Borreggine, DPM )
From: Scott Leum, DPM

Editor’s note: Dr Leum’s extended-length letter appears at: http://www.podiatrym.com/letters2.cfm?id=26438&start=1

RE: Orthotics and Newspaper Interviews
From: Kevin A. Kirby, DPM

I have known Dr. Robert Eckles now for 30 years, first as a classmate at the California College of Podiatric Medicine and now a respected colleague. The content of the New York Times article in no way, shape or form resembles the very reasoned, ethical and learned opinions that I have had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Eckles over the many years.  Dr. Eckles fully understands the positive therapeutic benefits of foot orthoses therapy and I have only the highest esteem for him and his opinions regarding foot orthoses therapy.

Those of us who have been interviewed by newspapers and magazines on multiple occasions know that what is printed in a publication of the popular press sometimes bears only a slight resemblance to what is stated in an interview. Therefore, it is probably not wise that any of us jump to sudden conclusions regarding the contents of an interview with one of our colleagues until that colleague has been given the opportunity to fully explain their opinions, without the convolution that often accompanies these types of interviews within the popular press.

Kevin A. Kirby, DPM, Sacramento, CA, kevinakirby@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO AREA

1-YEAR PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP

Monrovia, California. Applicant must be a licensed podiatrist and have completed a podiatric residency program. Monthly Stipend $4,000 to $5,000. Please email your curriculum vitae to victoriamanagers@gmail.com Thank you for your interest in our Program.

SEEKING PODIATRIST FOR SUNDAYS - HOWELL, NJ
 
Our practice of over 18 years is looking for a DPM to provide treatment on Sundays at our Howell office located approximately 1 mile from Lakewood , NJ. Speaking Hebrew preferred, but not required.  Please reply by emailing a CV and cover letter to: toetoe@optonline.net or by faxing to 1-888-645-0241.

ASSOCIATE WANTED - FLORIDA

Associate needed for a dynamic multi-doctor practice in the Tampa Bay area. Partnership opportunity for the right candidate. Preference given to a PSR 24+ resident completing their education this spring/summer, and must have a Florida license. Well-established practice, high tech with EMR and digital x-rays, with specialties in sports medicine, surgery and wound care. No nursing homes or HMO's. Excellent hospital privileges available. Choose an area of practice concentration that you are passionate about and enjoy a lifestyle for yourself and your family that is second to none. E-mail: kimvelez@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

Great opportunity for hard-working, ethical podiatrist to join Midwest multi-physician, podiatric group with multiple locations. A well-established, successful, growing practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT and PT surgically trained physician. Applicant should be well-trained in all aspects of surgical care, completed a 24-36 month residency, & at least board eligible. Diverse practice offering high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume to: 712-258-9977

ASSOCIATE POSITION- HUDSON VALLEY REGION, NEW YORK

Unique opportunity for the right person! We’re looking for a personable, motivated individual who is seeking opportunity and security in a high end multi-office group practice. This is an incredible position for the right person. Please reply to Hudson Valley Foot Associates, PO Box 3300, Kingston, NY 12402-3300; or email CV and cover letter to: jobs@hvfa.com

DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND FOR SALE

Mindray 6600 with Sony thermal printer. Machine comes with a 10 Mhz linear probe. Split screen allows two images on one screen. All digital machine. Comes with factory warranty for 1 year from Atlantic Medical LLC. Price when new is close to $11,000.00. Price for this machine with printer is $5,500.00. For further information see website

CASE CONSULTING
                                                                  
Dennis Shavelson, DPM is accepting referrals of difficult cases involving biomechanics, surgical complications, non-healing wounds, pigmented & derm lesions, PRP and diagnostic dilemma’s from DPM’S. Full reporting with second opinion only and rapid return after care options. Medicare and Out-of-Network Only. (212) 288-3668 or drsha@lifestylepodiatry.com

NEEDED CHICAGO -- NW IND & BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON, DC PODIATRISTS 

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists in Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and Baltimore, MD. Full and part-time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com Visit our website

PRACTICE FOR SALE - FLORIDA—CENTRAL/SOUTH

Turn-key operation grossing $570,000 annually based on one full-time doctor. Great opportunity for growing the top-line. Surgery is only 14% of the professional man-hours; it can significantly increase income. Medicare makes up 64% of revenues. Seller will assist with transition. Call 863-688-1725, ask for Chas

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 11,500 DPM's. Write to  bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 Ext 110. 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO AREA

1-YEAR PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP

Monrovia, California. Applicant must be a licensed podiatrist and have completed a podiatric residency program. Monthly Stipend $4,000 to $5,000. Please email your curriculum vitae to victoriamanagers@gmail.com Thank you for your interest in our Program.

SEEKING PODIATRIST FOR SUNDAYS - HOWELL, NJ
 
Our practice of over 18 years is looking for a DPM to provide treatment on Sundays at our Howell office located approximately 1 mile from Lakewood , NJ. Speaking Hebrew preferred, but not required.  Please reply by emailing a CV and cover letter to: toetoe@optonline.net or by faxing to 1-888-645-0241.

ASSOCIATE WANTED - FLORIDA

Associate needed for a dynamic multi-doctor practice in the Tampa Bay area. Partnership opportunity for the right candidate. Preference given to a PSR 24+ resident completing their education this spring/summer, and must have a Florida license. Well-established practice, high tech with EMR and digital x-rays, with specialties in sports medicine, surgery and wound care. No nursing homes or HMO's. Excellent hospital privileges available. Choose an area of practice concentration that you are passionate about and enjoy a lifestyle for yourself and your family that is second to none. E-mail: kimvelez@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

Great opportunity for hard-working, ethical podiatrist to join Midwest multi-physician, podiatric group with multiple locations. A well-established, successful, growing practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT and PT surgically trained physician. Applicant should be well-trained in all aspects of surgical care, completed a 24-36 month residency, & at least board eligible. Diverse practice offering high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume to: 712-258-9977

ASSOCIATE POSITION- HUDSON VALLEY REGION, NEW YORK

Unique opportunity for the right person! We’re looking for a personable, motivated individual who is seeking opportunity and security in a high end multi-office group practice. This is an incredible position for the right person. Please reply to Hudson Valley Foot Associates, PO Box 3300, Kingston, NY 12402-3300; or email CV and cover letter to: jobs@hvfa.com

DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND FOR SALE

Mindray 6600 with Sony thermal printer. Machine comes with a 10 Mhz linear probe. Split screen allows two images on one screen. All digital machine. Comes with factory warranty for 1 year from Atlantic Medical LLC. Price when new is close to $11,000.00. Price for this machine with printer is $5,500.00. For further information see website

CASE CONSULTING
                                                                  
Dennis Shavelson, DPM is accepting referrals of difficult cases involving biomechanics, surgical complications, non-healing wounds, pigmented & derm lesions, PRP and diagnostic dilemma’s from DPM’S. Full reporting with second opinion only and rapid return after care options. Medicare and Out-of-Network Only. (212) 288-3668 or drsha@lifestylepodiatry.com

NEEDED CHICAGO -- NW IND & BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON, DC PODIATRISTS 

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists in Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and Baltimore, MD. Full and part-time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com Visit our website

PRACTICE FOR SALE - FLORIDA—CENTRAL/SOUTH

Turn-key operation grossing $570,000 annually based on one full-time doctor. Great opportunity for growing the top-line. Surgery is only 14% of the professional man-hours; it can significantly increase income. Medicare makes up 64% of revenues. Seller will assist with transition. Call 863-688-1725, ask for Chas

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 11,500 DPM's. Write to  bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 Ext 110. 

• 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.