The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

May 28, 2012 #4,473 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Flip-Flops Now a Year-Round Phenomenon: IL Podiatrist

Flip-flops — the flat-soled shoes commonly made of plastic or rubber — have many endearing qualities. They’re easy to slide on and kick off. They’re easy to clean, especially rinsing the sand off. And they’re easy on the pocketbook. Unfortunately, flip-flops aren’t very easy on the feet and they’re causing problems for those who consider them fashionable footwear. “I can’t tell you how much of that I see, especially among teenage girls. They’re wearing them so often now. They’re not wearing them just in the summer months for going to the pool or the beach. They’re wearing them 365 days a year, to school and at the mall,” said Dr. Marten Sikorski, a podiatrist with Springfield Clinic. 

Dr. Marten Sikorski

What Sikorski also is seeing is increased incidents of arch and heel cord pain among his patients as a result of wearing shoes with little to no arch support. Overpronation, a condition where the foot flattens and rolls inward when stepping, is common among regular wearers of flip-flops and in the long-term can result in pain that extends all of the way up the leg to the back area.

Source: Dan Naumovich, The State-Journal Register [5/24/12]

President-Elect of AMA Keynotes at NYCPM Commencement

Jeremy A. Lazarus, MD, President-Elect of the American Medical Association, delivered the keynote address to the graduating class of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM) and received the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters-Honoris Causa, during the College’s 2012 Commencement Ceremony at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall in New York City on Tuesday, May 22nd.   

Dr. Jeremy A. Lazarus, President-Elect of the AMA

Louis L. Levine, President and Chief Executive Officer of the College, presided at the commencement ceremony.  Dr. Lazarus addressed the 80 graduating seniors—who received their Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degrees—and an audience of nearly 1,000 faculty members, parents, family and friends. In addition, Rock G. Positano, DPM, MSc, MPH, Deputy Board Chairman of NYCPM, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree. Vito J. Rizzo, DPM, President of the New York State Podiatric Medical Association, delivered brief remarks. 

NYCPM Honors Gold and Diamond Anniversary Graduates

Members of the NYCPM Class of 1962 were honored for their 50th year since graduation at the 2012 graduation ceremonies at Lincoln Center on Tuesday, May 22nd. 

(L-R) Dr. Arthur Gudeon, John Valente, Emil Saggio, and Edward Fischman.

Pictured are Arthur Gudeon, DPM, Class of 1960, NYCPM Alumni President, with 1962 graduates John Valente, DPM, Emil Saggio, DPM, and Edward Fischman, DPM. Also attending but not pictured is Arthur Wolstein, DPM, who was honored for his 75th year since his graduation in 1937.

Toenails Can be Diagnostic for Systemic Conditions: UK Podiatrist

Toenails, like fingernails, are thought to be an evolutionary leftover from claws. Their function is to protect the toes from damage. They endure being rubbed against shoes and stubbed, and bacteria and fungi, so are vulnerable to problems. 

Michael O'Neill

According to podiatrist Mike O’Neill, very pale toenails could indicate the heart is having trouble pumping blood to the extremities. Another sign to look out for in this case is ridges on the nail or losing the hairs on your toes, as this can mean underlying vascular disease. Spoon-like or indented toenails can indicate the iron deficiency anaemia. Ridges across the nail can occasionally be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis.

Source: Louise Atkinson, Daily Mail [5/25/12]

Iffy Medical Opinion Not Enough to Deny Aid to Worker: AZ Court

A doctor's testimony that an employee's injury could have been caused by unknown factors is insufficient to deny workers' compensation benefits, the Arizona Court of Appeals has ruled. The judges, in a unanimous decision, pointed out that speculative medical testimony is insufficient in Arizona to award someone benefits. For the same reason, they ruled, such testimony also cannot be used to contradict or undermine the conclusion of another doctor who said the injury is definitely work-related. 

Dr. Amram Dahukey

At a hearing, Dr. Amram Dahukey, a board-certified podiatrist who had done the second surgery on Hackworth's foot, testified that there was a "reasonable medical probability" that Hackworth's work had contributed to his neuroma. But Dr. Roger Grimes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who served as the independent medical examiner, said it was possible the neuroma had been caused by Hackworth's employment - but added, "I can't state that to a probability (because) I just don't find a definite correlation."

"A physician's general comment about the incomplete state of medical knowledge does not suffice to rebut testimony that a particular claimant has suffered a compensable injury in a given case," the court said.

Source: Howard Fischer, Arizona Business Gazette [5/24/12]

Stop Forgetting

Rather than rely on your memory, create habits that improve efficiency and make reaching goals easier.

Tips: Maintain a calendar and to-do list of both big and small tasks. Automate routine chores such as ordering supplies and paying bills. Complete small tasks right when you think of them.

Source: Adapted from “10 Ways to Stop Forgetting Things & Get More Done,” Craig Jarrow, Time Management Ninja, via Communication Briefings

Query: Modifying a Profile on the Physician Compare Site

Can anyone provide a telephone contact number to troubleshoot (add) my profile for Medicare-B patients in my geographic area to access me on CMS's "Physician Compare" site? I am somehow able to indirectly find myself, but the entry data is a mess; it lists hospitals that I've never heard of. I can't delete a closed office and a sublessor (gone a year) is still listed at my primary address, and I am not. I am currently PECOS-certified (Individual & Organizational) and now cannot even access my log-in.

Robert K Hall, DPM, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

RE: Ultrasound-Guided Corticosteroid Injection for Plantar Fasciitis
From: David Gurvis, DPM

The following study from the BJM is a double-blinded randomized study of dexamethasone phosphate injection to the plantar fascia. There are some faults in the study. For one, they indicate PF is a self-limiting disorder resolving in about a year. For another, I would have liked to have seen this performed with a long-acting steroid, but regardless, it is well worth a read.
 
David Gurvis, DPM, Avon, IN deg1@comcast.net

Query: VST Myodynamic

An area chiropractor is treating diabetic neuropathy with a "new" machine. Today, both my partners and I received an email about treating neuropathy. The treatment is VST myodynamic by VCare. None of us have ever heard of this. The email sounds too good to be true and we know what that means. Does anyone have any experience with this device or this company. 

Neil A Burrell, DPM, Beaumont, TX

RE: Unethical Behavior By Foot Solutions (Peter Mason, DPM, Louis Nordeen, DPM)
From:Elliot Udell, DPM
 
If what Drs. Mason and Nordeen wrote bothers you, a visit to the FootSolutions.com website will make your blood boil. They are offering "solutions" for pain associated with plantar fasciitis, ingrown toe nails, bunions, diabetic neuropathy, and a host of other foot conditions too long to enumerate. Apparently, this national chain is no longer marketing themselves as shoe stores with pedorthic services, but as foot healthcare centers for people seeking primary  help for a host of foot problems. On their website, they actually invite readers to come in and consult with their "foot specialists." Hence, we are no longer perceived as allies who refer patients to them but as their competitors. It would therefore follow that people working in local stores might harbor resentment toward us and display this hostility in what they say to our patients.
 
I  hope that some of our podiatric medical societies would evaluate the "Foot Solutions" website  and local marketing to determine if it does or does not translate into giving podiatric medical advice. If they have legally not crossed this line, then all we can do is practice to the best of our training and hope that patients will realize that we offer more and can produce better outcomes.
 
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY, Elliotu@aol.com

RE: Coding Verification Reviews for Custom Fabricated AFOs (Robert Gaynor, DPM)
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM

First, I suggest that in the future, the use of "brand or proprietary name" devices not be used in what should be an educational forum. The manner in which the original letter to the editor was written suggests that instead of attempting to educate our colleagues, it was used as a tool to provide a competitive edge for one product over another. This has resulted in many podiatrists being unduly concerned over their risks of being audited for their current purchasing practices.

Second is that research on this matter reveals that Dr. Gaynor is the owner of DiaFoot and his company advertises a PDAC-approved L1970 device on DiaFoot's website. A disclaimer by Dr. Gaynor...

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

RE: Dubai Podiatrist Introduces Portable Foot Toning Device
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM

There was a product called Bunion-ease. I am not sure if it is still marketed. It was electrical stim, specifically for the abductor muscle. I am not sure which muscles are being stimulated in the Footeralla device.
 
Jeffrey Kass, DPM Forest Hills, NY jeffckass@aol.com

IMMEDIATE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY - LONG ISLAND, NY

Established well-rounded practice looking to turn part-time practice into full-time. Located in sports complex with physical therapy and sports club. Graduating residents and experienced podiatrists may apply. Please email queries to podiatrypartnership@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

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

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 - 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 - 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 - YORK, PA
 
Three-office practice with hospital, surgical center & nursing home privileges.  EMR since 2000. Digital x-ray, ultrasound, progressive practice. Competitive salary and benefits offered.  Practice offers good mix of surgery, wound care, and general podiatry.  Open to associate with potential future buy-in.  Please forward your information and CV to footdocpa@aol.com
 

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.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. Join a modern, well-established 42-year-old podiatric medical/surgical practice within a multi-specialty office. Located just 20 minutes from NYC. Must be responsible, compassionate, driven, and self-starter. Enjoy cross-referrals from other specialists and support of medical assistants, office managers, and medical billers with over 50 years combined experience. Utilize modern technology: state-of-the-art diagnostic ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, ESWT (machine is owned by practice), physical therapy, x-ray, circulation testing, NCV, and in-office operatory suite. Very strong and effective advertising/marketing program. No nursing homes, No HMOs, No Medicaid, No Medicare. Must be licensed for podiatry in New York. Send cover letter/CV to: linchpindpm@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA

Two office practice, hospital and surgery center privileges, trauma call, modern offices, EHR, digital x-rays. Excellent compensation package. Position may lead to partnership. Candidate needs to be experienced in foot and ankle reconstruction and trauma. Email letter of interest and CV to Dr. Joe Disabato at jdisabato@vfasa.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Busy, two office group practice seeking a full-time, self motivated and hard working podiatry associate. Good mixture of general podiatry and surgery. Applicant should be PMS 36/Board Qualified/Certified. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please email CV to: toesrus7@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

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 - NYC

Full and part-time opportunity available in 40 year old practice in downtown Brooklyn. State-of-the-art office with EMR and digital x-rays. Must be experienced, highly motivated with good clinical skills. Competitive salary. Possible buy-in opportunity available. please email resume to dpm10019@yahoo.com

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 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 - 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 - 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.

GREAT OFFICE STAFF FOR HIRE - SOUTH JERSEY

Very experienced office staff needs jobs. Office is closing and they are experienced people to hire in South Jersey. E-mail for CV and or what you are looking for They know podiatry and are both certified  podiatric medical assistants. They do billing, scheduling, chairside, and much more  Footcare@comcast.net

LOCUM TENENS - TEXAS STATEWIDE

It is that time of year, and you want to go on vacation, but can't or won't leave your practice, I can help. Please contact me at:  netexasl@gmail.com  I will forward a CV

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE:  AUTOMATIC  X-RAY PROCESSOR 

ALLPRO 2010, 4 years old, good working order. Pick up from NYC preferable. $1,200 Contact:DOC4FOOT@aol.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 or best offer. Please call 713-541-3199 for more information. or email contactus@houstonfootankle.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Retiring from practice. Equipment For sale. Mini x-ray. One year old Ultrasound with MS arterial/venous X-ray plates. Great condition Ritter chairs. Drills, surgical tools. So much. Just ask, I probably haveitFootcare@comcast.net

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC

This is a great opportunity to expand or establish a new practice. Fully furnished, large modern Podiatric office in an upscale doorman building on the east side. Fully equipped and Wi-Fi ready. (Rent includes electricity and supplies). Available immediately for full or part time occupancy. Save up to $100,000 in initial costs and avoid any start-up mistakes. Email podofficenyc@gmail.com for further information. Price is considerably below market value. Confidentiality will be strictly upheld.

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

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.

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