The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

May 31, 2010 #3,871 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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WI Podiatrist to Keynote Memorial Day Observance

On Monday, Appleton Wisconsin's observance of Memorial Day begins with a 9 a.m. parade starting at College Avenue and Appleton Street. A ceremony takes place about 10 a.m. at the burial plot of the George D. Eggleston Post of the Grand Army of the Republic inside Riverside Cemetery. The keynote speaker will be Barry Erdman of Menasha, an Appleton podiatrist and former Marine.

Dr. Barry Erdman

Dr. Erdman is a summa cum laude graduate of the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, and was one of the first podiatrists in northeast Wisconsin to achieve board certification in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery.

Source: Postcrescent.com [5/29/10]

CA Podiatrist Keynotes at Australian Podiatry Meeting

Doug Richie, DPM was the featured keynote speaker at the recent Australasian Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) "Roadshow"  which was the first ever state-based seminar series held in Australia.  This series started May 12th in Sydney at the NSW State meeting in a  joint collaboration with the Australian Podiatry Association, and then moved to Melbourne on May 15th and concluded in Brisbane on May 22nd.  Dr. Richie lectured on various topics, including adult acquired flatfoot, ankle trauma, and postural control.

The Board of the Australasian Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine with Dr. Richie (second from left) at the Fireside Chat in Brisbane.

Dr. Richie was part of a multi-disciplinary faculty which included PhD researchers, sports physicians, and physiotherapists. The AAPSM of Australia continued the tradition of their American AAPSM counterparts by featuring a "Fireside Chat" after the seminar, where academic discussions were held between attendees and the keynote speaker. 

Jail Sentences for TX Podiatrists for Healthcare Fraud

A Houston podiatrist and his co-defendant were sentenced today to federal prison for defrauding federal healthcare programs. Franklin Beltre, 40, was sentenced to three years in prison and three years of supervised release, federal officials said. He also was ordered to pay about $691,000 in restitution, which represents the amount he was paid for phoney claims he had submitted to both Medicare and Medicaid.

Manuela Alana, Beltre's co-defendant, was sentenced to two years in prison, federal officials said. She must serve three-years of supervised release. Federal officials said that from April 29, 2006, through May 6, 2006, while vacationing in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Beltre submitted claims to both Medicare and Medicaid for podiatric services he never performed and that were actually performed by Alana, an unlicensed, unsupervised podiatrist.

Source: Dale Lezon, Houston Chronicle [5/28/10]

‘Doc Fix' Clears House; Cuts Still Loom

The House voted 215-204 to approve a greatly pared-down legislative package that includes a $4.5 billion Medicare cut to hospitals, and separately 245-171 to replace a 21.2% cut in physician payments with 19 months of positive updates. Even so, the House action on the so-called "doc fix" for Medicare physican reimbursement could prove toothless in the short-term. The Senate adjourned early Friday without taking up either bill, meaning the soonest they'll consider the measures is after their week-long Memorial Day recess.

The doc pay cuts officially take hold on June 1, but CMS said it would hold claims for at least 10 days. Under the $22.9 billion physician payment measure, doctors would see a 2.2% update for the balance of the year, and a 1% increase in 2011. But they'll face a 33% cut in 2012. 

Source: Matthew DoBias, Modern Healthcare [5/28/10]

FTC Delays Red Flags Rule

The Federal Trade Commission on May 28 announced it would delay enforcement of the Red Flags Rule from June 1 to Dec. 31, 2010. The commission cited Congressional consideration of legislation that would affect the scope of entities covered by the rule to require businesses to take specific steps to minimize identity theft. For instance, S. 3416, introduced on May 25 in the Senate, would exempt healthcare practices with 20 or fewer employees, as well as accounting and legal practices of similar size.

Covered healthcare professionals under the bill include physicians, dentists, podiatrists, chiropractors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, marriage or family therapists, optometrists, speech therapists, language therapists, hearing therapists, and veterinarians.

Source: Health Data Management [5/28/10]

Query: Dry Gangrene

My 70 y/o DM male patient recently underwent a "new" vascular procedure (I'm assuming Silverhawk) on his left extremity. He presented with a black gangrenous hallux all the way to MTPJ, with some demarcation. The first interspace is open, with an exposed met head.

Dry Gangrene

He recently underwent amputation of the toe, but I am not privy to the details of this, and why it was left open. X-rays show only some post-op changes at the exposed 2nd met. There is no abnormality other than calcific digital arteries to the hallux. Basically, he has a dry gangrene of the hallux, but no bony changes. I was consulted for a hallux amputation. What is the right call?

Jefferson J. Mennuti, DPM, Louisville, KY

Query: Patient Newsletters

Can someone recommend a company that prepares patient newsletters that we can use to do internal marketing with our patients?

Richard T. Koenigsberg, DPM, Sunnyvale, CA

RE: Chaetomium Onychomycosis (Robert P. Thiele, DPM)
From: Jay D. Helman, DPM

Chaetonium is a mold, not a dermatophyte; therefore Lamisil will not be effective. Lamisil only kills dermatophytes. Sporanox has a much broader spectrum but a higher degree of drug interaction. Clorox solution kills mold. When I have a patient with sp. mold, I debride the nail and recommend that the patient soak in 2/3 Chlorox to 1/3 water for 10 minutes. The patient is to saturate a cotton ball and lay that over the nail. Patient performs this UNTIL the nail grows out.

Jay D. Helman, DPM,  Pearl River, NY, footdr80@hotmail.com

RE: Patient Access to EMR at Former Location  (Richard Rees, DPM)
From: Multiple Respondents

Dr Rees's problem with patient access to his medical records stored on an EMR is only the tip of an iceberg. The government's promise to give money for converting to EMR is causing many new EMR software companies to spring out of the woodwork. Most of these programs have one thing in common. Their notes are housed in cyberspace.  Should any of these companies go out of business or be taken over by another company, issues will arise as to how patient notes will be retrieved.
 
At a recent New York state sponsored symposium on EMR, I asked an official from the state if there are any laws on the books to protect both patients and doctors if a company goes bust. He admitted that they don't expect every new EMR company to remain in business, yet there are no laws protecting doctors and patients.
 
Just as the president admitted today that the US government should have been more proactive in policing the oil drilling industry prior to the BP gulf fiasco, our medical societies should be proactive in pushing for legislation to protect doctors and patients whose medical records may be compromised or lost in the event of an EMR company going belly up or bought out by a competitor. It’s not too early for states or the federal government to have such protections put into place.  
 
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY, Elliotu@aol.com
 
Dr. Rees should advise the patient to go to the other group’s office and follow up on her request. By law, they have 30 days to comply. If they are unable to comply, they must provide the patient with a written statement stating a reason why they won’t release the records. If the other practice is unwilling to comply, the patient should advise the practice that she is filing a complaint with HHS.  The patient can go to the following website to file the complaint: (hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/complaints/index.html). This will begin an investigation, and in a situation such as described, will generate mandatory fines.

Raymond Posa, The Manta Group, rposa@themantagroup.com

If you still have access to the records remotely, you can print the records using [alt] [print screen]. Then, open MS paint or an updated version of MS word; hit your right mouse button select (paste), then print.  Contact your Med Mal carrier for any additional legal jargon that might be necessary.

Marc Garfield, DPM, Williamsburg, VA, mgarfield1@cox.net
 

Phalangeal Osteotomy Denial (Tony Poggio, DPM)
From: Sloan Gordon, DPM

In reference to the response that CPT28292/28310 is unbundling, I don't see how CPT 28298 is correct as that is a double osteotomy. Is Dr. Poggio saying that an Austin/Akin procedure should be billed as CPT 28298 rather than CPT 28296 + CPT 28310? I do them through two separate incisions. Please clarify.
 
Sloan Gordon, DPM, Houston, TX, sgordondoc@sbcglobal.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA

General podiatry. High-level surgical skills are not required. Good diagnostician, compassionate and hard working individual is needed for busy high-tech practice. E-Mail: flpodiatrist@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN PHILADELPHIA SUBURBS

GREAT OPPORTUNITY, 4-doctor practice with 2 locations has a full time
position available. Must be ABPS qualified or certified. PSR-36 preferred. Looking for hard working, well-rounded, personable individual interested in all aspects of podiatry, including wound care, surgery and limb salvage. Please respond to pod1593@gmail.com

PRACTICE & BUILDING FOR SALE - MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Two locations each with 3 exam rooms, x-ray room, large waiting room, and ample parking. Excellent locations and growth potential. All equipment and furniture included. Website and marketing material included. Seller happy to assist with transition. Grossed 350K last year, priced to sell with financing available 200k. Call 931-446-5724.

1 YEAR PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP - MONROVIA, CALIFORNIA

Applicants must have completed a podiatric residency program and must have or be eligible for a California license. Annual stipend: $48,000 and $60,000. If interested, please e-mail your resume with cover letter to the Program's management company at victoriamanagers@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - TENNESSEE

Established 30-year full-scope podiatry practice. Excellent hospital and surgery center privileges with investment opportunities. Fully equipped 2200 sq.ft. office across from hospital. High volume of new patients, DME, and local referral base. Great community for a family and the outdoorsman. Reply to tnfootdr@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION NORTH CAROLINA - ASHEVILLE/MOUNTAINS

Well established, multi-doctor, multi-office diverse practice has immediate need for associate doctor leading to partnership. Associate doctor will be very busy from day one. Attractive compensation and benefits. Buy-in potential after one year. Contact at smfc2@charterinternet.com or 828-734-1535

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Looking for podiatrists to join group to work in nursing facilities in: Texas (Ft. Worth, Dallas, Houston) Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Northwest Pennsylvania, Delaware, Upstate New York, Massachusetts (Brockton). Please respond to: doconcall02@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, on the ocean, fast growing area. Associate for multi-office, full-scope practice. Reply to dr.cole@shaw.ca or phone 250-516-7440

LIMB PRESERVATION RESEARCH AND SURGICAL FELLOWSHIP
 
Boston University Medical Center offers a unique fellowship position
Be part of this unique opportunity at a major internationally-known teaching medical center. During this time, he/she will become a knowledge expert who will contribute significantly to research, surgical procedures, teaching, and innovations in limb preservation and tissue repair. Requirements: Completion of a two or three year surgical residency; Annual Salary: Year 1 $61,000, Year 2 $66,000 plus excellent benefits. Submit a CV and letter of interest to: Erin Springhetti @ erin.springhetti@bmc.org and Dr Vickie Driver @ vickie.driver@bmc.org

CANADIAN PODIATRISTS COME BACK HOME!

An Edmonton, Alberta group of DPM’s requires an additional Podiatrist. Interest in biomechanics essential. Given Canadian visa restrictions, this position is open only to Canadian Citizens or permanent residents. Very attractive compensation package. Fax C.V. or letter of interest to: (780) 483-5796.

PODIATRISTS WANTED BALTIMORE/CHICAGO/NORTHWEST INDIANA

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 Jake Shimansky, Director of Physician Recruitment. Phone 773-342-5221 FAX 773-486-3548 E-Mail jshimansky@homephysicians.com www.homephysicians.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MINEOLA, NEW YORK

Full-time or Part-time associate position with future partnership potential available with busy multi-office practices on Long Island. Must be proficient in all phases of podiatry with emphasis on surgery, biomechanics and RFC. Minimum standards include either a three-year PSR, or board qualified/certified status with ABPS. Existing hospital privileges with a NY-based facility helpful. Interested doctors are encouraged to e-mail their CV to mets724@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – TEXAS

Full-time podiatrist(s) needed in Austin or San Antonio. Current Texas license required.  Unique mobile podiatry practice.  Better pay, fine working conditions with excellent support staff. Check out our website www.footmobile.com.  Reply to footcenter1@sbcglobal.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE – OHIO

Retiring. Completely equipped office $18,888. Reception room, Business office (Fax, typewriter, copy machine). 3 Tx rooms. paraffin, U.Sd., vascular analyzer, CLlA lab. Hydros, ultra-violets, galvasines, OR table, light, laser, nitrous, fluoroScan, Stryker. Private office (decorator furnished) with desk, credenza, couch, chairs. For complete inventory e-mail ohiofoot@aol.com or 330-501-1132.  Phil Davidson, DPM

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CONNECTICUT (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN) 
 
Great opportunity. Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Associate position leading to partnership. Well-established and progressive offices. Electronic medical records, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, nerve conduction studies, pinpoint and CO2 lasers, electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapies. Seeking a well-trained, personable, and highly motivated individual. Please send resume and current photo to dr.kassaris@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PRINCETON, NJ

Looking for a full-time associate in a very high volume 2-office practice in the Princeton area in routine/sports/pediatric/surgical podiatric care. Excellent opportunity for a hard-working, ethical, individual with good personal and clinical skills. Candidate needs minimum PSR 24-36, board qualified/certified, and an active NJ state license. Send résumé’s – princetonpodiatry@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY, NY

Great opportunity in a seven–doctor podiatry group! Multiple locations utilizing state-of-the-art modalities. A residency program is attached to our practice. Interviews will begin shortly for this special position. Please forward CV to: healthyfeet4ever@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SW FLORIDA, BEAUTIFUL GULF COAST AREA

Well-established podiatry practice with excellent mix office/surgery seeking full-time associate PSR 12-36. Excellent salary & benefits for the right hardworking, personable candidate. Email resume to pudos@aol.com or fax to 239-573-9201.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA BAY, FL

Associate needed for a dynamic practice in the Tampa Bay area. Preference given to a PSR 24+ training and must have a Florida license. Well-established practice, high-tech with specialties in sports medicine, surgery and wound care. No nursing homes or HMOs. E-mail: drcosentino@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

IMMEDIATE Associate needed to join a multi-office podiatry practice in the Baltimore MD Region. Desired candidate should be surgically trained with Board Eligible/Certification. You must be hard-working, ethical, compassionate and confident in your abilities to deal with pathology, patients, staff and fellow physicians. Patient base is already established. Excellent income and growth potential for the right associate. Please forward a cover letter, resume, and surgical log (if a current resident) and availability to FootDocMaryland@Gmail.com

PART-TIME POSITION - NEW JERSEY 

Available for a Board certified/qualified podiatrist. Located in Toms River and Manchester. We have a high-volume practice that treats routine care, trauma, sports-related injuries, hospital consults, and ER Consults. Possibly leading to full-time position for the right person. Please fax CV to (732) 349-0228 or email CV to njfeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION- MONROE, MICHIGAN 

Excellent opportunity to join a modern, growing 3 doctor/2 office practice located in SE Michigan between Detroit and Toledo. Responsibilities will include a mix of surgery, office, hospital and nursing home/housecalls. Salary, bonus and benefits. Learn more about us at monpod.com. If you are a personable, reliable team player with solid skills and a patient first attitude please contact dr.hughes@comcast.net for more information.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NEW JERSEY 

Podiatrist wanted to work established satellite office two days a week. Nursing Home and House Calls in the morning, full patient load in the afternoon. Must have good people skills, at least PSR-12 training. Call 732-770-0823 or fax CV 732-699-1901.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – TEXAS

Dynamic, growing practice in Dallas/Fort Worth area, seeking PSR 36 surgically trained, and/or Board Certified/Board Qualified Podiatrist. Excellent salary and benefits compensation package, for the right candidate, with partnership/buyout opportunity. Must have Texas license. Contact/Send resume to: jmh6122@yahoo.com

TN PRACTICE FOR SALE (SOUTH OF NASHVILLE)

Active, established practice with new equipment (digital x-ray, ultrasound, computer network, etc.). Great referral network with an excellent scope of practice. Turn-key operation with seamless transition. Grossed over $350K last year. Call 931-446-5724 or email mchad500@gmail.com for more information.

TRAUMA FELLOWSHIP - FOOT & ANKLE

Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, IA is currently accepting applications for its 12 month trauma surgery fellowship beginning August 1, 2010. Fellowship to include advanced techniques in all foot and ankle surgery with an emphasis on lower extremity trauma, reconstruction & total joint replacement. Residency training required. Competitive salary and benefits. Please submit a letter of interest, CV, and 3 letters of recommendation to: Ben Olsen, DPM, Director: Foot and Ankle Trauma Fellowship, Broadlawns Medical Center, 1801 Hickman Road Des Moines, IA 50314, 515-282-7927, bolsen@broadlawns.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NAPLES, FLORIDA

Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office, multi-doctor practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. We rotate for ER call at all 4 hospitals. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner OK. Salary and percentage based on skills and experience, benefits including 401K. Current Florida license a plus. This a wonderful world class community. Fax CV to (239)566-8778 or Email CV to Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MINNESOTA

Practice Grossing over $500K yearly. Good mix of surgery, orthotics, DME, diabetic care, general podiatry. Commute < 5 miles to work. Friendly Midwest lakes area with arts, good schools, affordable living, restaurants, shopping. Option to purchase building. Will consider associate to buy-in/ buy-out. Midwestpractice@gmail.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,000 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 12,000 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.

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