The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

May 29, 2012 #4,474 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.

OH Podiatrist Discusses Heel Fissures

"Cracked heels are a very common foot problem, and are often referred to as heel fissures," explained podiatrist Gregory Blasko, DPM. "Cracks occur when the skin on the heels is just too dry to support the pressure on the foot. As the foot expands, the dry skin on the heels splits." 

Dr. Gregory Blasko

"The two biggest risk factors for cracked heels are diabetes and obesity," said Dr. Blasko. "Diabetics are likely to experience cracked heels because of damage to nerves in the feet from uncontrolled blood sugars, which can lead to neuropathy and predispose the person to dry skin. People with diabetes are even more likely to sustain an infection from cracked heels than non-diabetics. If you are diabetic, it is important to examine your feet frequently and look for signs of cracks or infection."

Source: Salem News [05/27/12]

Scholl College Students Earn Their White Coats

First-year podiatric medicine students at Scholl College.

First-year students at the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine participated in an annual rite of passage, receiving their white coats at the end of the academic year. Scholl College is celebrating its centennial anniversary and is part of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in North Chicago, IL.

Canadian Podiatrist is Chief Medical Officer for Helmet Protective Device

Next week, a group of businessmen and a podiatrist will unveil, at the Hockey Hall of Fame, what has been dubbed a “revolutionary” step in the protection of athletes’ heads – the noggin, a form-fitting black skull cap outfitted with cushioning gel packs that athletes can wear under their helmets. Up until this week, the noggin presented itself as a concussion-reducing device, claiming in a press release that certified helmets “do not stand alone to protect against concussions.” But the company has backed away from such claims after inquiries were made from leading concussion researchers and Globe and Mail reporters. 

Dr. Glenn Copeland

Dr. Glenn Copeland, the chief medical officer for the noggin and a podiatrist to the Toronto Blue Jays, said the inaccurate marketing was a result of “overly enthusiastic” staffers who misinterpreted tests. The noggin was tested for its effect on what’s known as peak linear acceleration at a laboratory in New York and the results suggested, when wearing a noggin under a hockey helmet, that the impact of a blow could be reduced substantially.

Source: Greg McArthur and Lisa Priest, Globe and Mail [5/25/12]

OR Podiatrist Worried About Diabetes Epidemic Among Native Americans

In a North Portland health clinic on a dreary Saturday, Michael Teeple  does his part in the war against the diabetes epidemic rocking Indian Country. Teeple, 60, a member of the Ojibwe tribe and diabetic for five years, sees his podiatrist, Dr. Chris Seuferling, who clips Teeple's toe nails, thick and distorted from a fungus nurtured by diabetes. 

Dr. Chris Seuferling

"Michael, I expect, will keep his feet for the rest of his life," says Seuferling. "The patients coming in here are not the ones I'm worried about." Native Americans have the highest diabetes rate among all racial and ethnic groups in America, and offer a preview of where the rest of the country is headed.

Source: Bill Graves, The Oregonian [5/26/12]

CA Podiatrist Wins Congressional Press Poll  

Congressman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon may be the powerful chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, but he's not making many people happy at home in his 25th District, if the results of the most recent "Have Your Say" poll are any indication. 

Dr. Lee Rogers

When the Antelope Valley Press asked its readers last week who should fill that seat for the next two years, only 25% of respondents picked the Santa Clarita Republican. Meanwhile, 46.25% picked Dr. Lee Rogers, the Simi Valley podiatrist who is the only Democrat in the four-way race.

Source: Antelope Valley Press [5/27/12]

Editor's Note: PM News is proud to present excerpts from Meet the Masters.

Bret Ribotsky: How would you describe the relationship of podiatry and dermatology? 

Dr. Bryan Markinson

Bryan Markinson:  It seems that we're taking the course of imitating orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons, literally the people in medicine who hate us the most. My experience with dermatology has been exactly the opposite. They have really embraced podiatry coming into the dermatology world. I think the introduction of Lamisil and inclusion of podiatrists in the launching of that drug have done a lot to show dermatologists how much we know and also how much we don’t know. I wish that I could convince more students to get into skin and nail diseases. 

Dr. Joseph Caporusso

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday night at 9 PM (EST). This week's guest is  APMA President Dr. Joseph Caporusso. You can register for future events by clicking here

MGMA, AMA Repeat Call for SGR Repeal

Two organizations representing the country's doctors and practice managers reiterated their position that Congress should repeal the sustainable growth-rate formula and outlined alternative approaches to the current Medicare physician payment system.

The appeals from the MGMA-ACMPE  and the American Medical Association to the House Ways and Means Committee were in response to the panel's April request for comments on different approaches to the way physicians are reimbursed in the Medicare program.

Source: Jessica Zigmund, Modern Healthcare [5/26/12]

Take Creative Approaches to Selections

Hire your next employee by thinking outside the box. Adapt these strategies:

•  Add work samples and tests to the interview process. Traditional Q-and-A interviewing often fails to assess important attributes such as technical ability, team skills, aptitude, and attitude.
•  Remain open to different types. Aim to build a team with diverse backgrounds, skills, and personalities.
•  Hire beyond your short-term needs. Consider how well a candidate fits into your practice's long-term plans.

Source:  Adapted from “The Top 30 Most Common (and Critical) Interview Problems” and “20 More of the Most Common (and Critical) Interview Problems,” Paul Sullivan, TLNT, via Communication Briefings

RE: VST Myodynamic (Neil Burrell, DPM)
From: Marc Katz, DPM

I have firsthand knowledge and have used this therapy. I began treatment about a year ago. I talked to several other podiatrists and they were having excellent results. They were even getting excellent coverage by insurance! So all sounded great.

I purchased the device and was given a comprehensive turn-key operations manual including verified very specific codes and protocols developed by "experts." Of course, there are standard disclaimers but they had done the research and promised it was all perfect with insurance. I have come to learn after speaking to a number of doctors that they have had nasty audits, have hired attorneys, and have refunded large sums of...

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

RE: May is National High Blood Pressure Month
From: Michael Brody, DPM

May is National Health and Blood Pressure Education month, and CMS is currently involved in an outreach educational program for patients to help improve monitoring and management of high blood pressure. Among the educational programs that are being promoted to patients is encouraging patients to visit their primary care providers for cardiovascular screening.

With this educational program that is being promoted by CMS, it is a good time to remind all doctors, primary care and specialists alike, of the importance of measuring a patient's blood pressure in the office. With the prevalence of high blood pressure, the need for this item to be included in meaningful use is underscored. I regularly present lectures to doctors on meaningful use and the vital signs measure is one that is often touched upon. It is quite common for a member of the audience to come up to me after the lecture and tell me a story of how they detected dangerously high blood pressure while taking steps to meet meaningful use. The doctors who have encountered patients with abnormally high blood pressure are now regularly checking the blood pressure of their patients, and preforming this test at a rate that exceeds the threshold required by meaningful use.

I encourage all doctors of all specialties to check patients' blood pressure on each and every visit. You will be providing very valuable service to your patients.

Michael Brody, DPM, Commack, NY, mbrody@cmeonline.com

RE: Unethical Behavior By Foot Solutions (Peter Mason, DPM)
From: Lawrence M. Rubin, DPM

Drs. Mason and Nordeen had bad experiences with Foot Solutions stores in their areas. On the other hand, my experience with a Foot Solutions store in Henderson, Nevada has been very good. The store owner, a certified pedorthist, is cooperating with area podiatrists, Lions Clubs, and the Southern Nevada Health District (our area health department) in a diabetes amputation-prevention program. His store is one location in a network of commercial, medically-related, and community service locations that are collaborating to provide free preventive foot screening for diabetics on specific dates and times. The program is conducted by the non-profit Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention (LEAP) Alliance.

When screened persons have foot problems that should be evaluated by a podiatrist, they are given a list of participating podiatric practices.  If it turns out that diabetic shoes are indicated, screened persons may choose to get them from Foot Solutions, but it is made clear that they may follow up on the screening by choosing any podiatrist or shoe store they would like.

I think the bottom line on this discussion of ethical behavior should be that generalization should be avoided, and every Foot Solutions store should be rated according to its merit (or lack of merit).

Lawrence Rubin, DPM, Las Vegas, NV, lrubin@leapalliance.org

Codingline & PM News In conjunction with AAPPM Present
The Greenbrier Coding & Practice Management Workshop - August 20-22

(Following the 2012 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Washington, DC) 

The Infinity Pool at the Greenbrier

Coming to Washington D.C. for the National? Don't miss out on being treated like a President and First Family. Enjoy world class amenities including golf, tennis, spa, casino and children's programs.

Speakers: Harry Goldsmith, John Guiliana, Barry Block, Michael Brody, Paul Kesselman, Jonathan Moore, Rem Jackson, Chad Schwarz, and other nationally-known authorities in morning-only presentations.

RESERVE YOUR UPGRADED ROOM NOW

Click Here for information or to Register

RE: PA Podiatrist Discusses Home Treatment for Bromhidrosis
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM

Dr. Spinner was quoted as saying "make sure you are not buying just deodorant. It must contain aluminum chlorohydrate to prevent sweating." There are other ways of preventing sweating aside from aluminum products. I only mention this as aluminum products have been linked with Alzheimer's disease. If one uses it on their underarms and then also uses it on their feet, they are doubling the amount of exposure, and hence could have an increased risk/association with regard to Alzheimer's disease.

Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY jeffckass@aol.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

 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.

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 - 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 – 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

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

   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 have it:  Footcare@comcast.net   

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

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.