The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

June 01, 2010 #3,872 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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If You Must Wear Flip-Flops, Crocs Builds a Good Shoe: TN Podiatrist

Kingsport podiatrist Dr. Mark Baxter says the most common ailment associated with extended wearing of flip-flops is plantar fasciitis. “A lot of people refer to their heel pain as a heel spur or a stone bruise. But the real diagnosis is ... plantar fasciitis. That is because the ligament on the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, is not getting good support. So it rips and tears and becomes inflamed, and it hurts. I don’t think I could recommend them for everyday wear, but it depends on how they are made,” Baxter said.

Dr. Mark Baxter

Lounging around the pool or wearing flip-flops for short periods of time is all right, according to Baxter. But if you must have sandal-type footwear for your summer walking, he recommends the Crocs brand.  “(Crocs) builds a good brand, and if you look at it, you’ll notice that there is some cushion to it but not a lot,” he said. “If you’re into a flip-flop that has a lot of cushion or is very soft, you may think you have gotten something that will make your feet feel good. Down the line, however, fatigue will set in quicker because the foot needs a solid surface to walk against. It’s like walking on the beach or sand. You’ll notice you fatigue quicker, and that is same thing with a soft flip-flop.”

Source: Kevin Castle, Kingsport Times News [5/29/10]

AZ Podiatrist Offers Summer Foot Health Tips 

Dr. Kathleen Stone, president of the American Podiatric Medical Association, says, "Pampering and grooming your feet promotes good foot hygiene and should be done frequently to contribute not only to your foot health in warmer weather but also to your body's overall health." Try soaking your feet for at least five minutes in a bucket of cool water.

Dr. Kathleen Stone

Consult a podiatrist if you have any foot pain or other problems affecting your feet. Podiatrists, explains Dr. Stone, are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot and ankle.

Source: Health News Digest [5/29/10]

Physicians Advisory Council Dismantled

A provision in the healthcare reform law dismantled the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council, a long-standing committee that advised HHS and CMS officials on Medicare regulations. The panel met quarterly and was made up of 15 physicians. CMS notes that physicians still have a number of resources to get information and submit feedback on Medicare policy, including public comments in the Federal Register, open-door forums held every six weeks, town hall meetings, and other sources.

Source: Report on Medicare Compliance [5/31/10]

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

Bret Ribotsky: What do you think is the main reason for some podiatrists not becoming members of state associations?

Mary Feeley

Mary Feeley: Some people say that the dues are too high. Yet, they will pay the non-members rates to come to various continuing education programs, which if they add all that up, would be more than the regular member dues. For some ex-members, something happened 20 or 25 years ago. Somebody got them angry in the office or did not respond to them or whatever, so they quit being a member. Some people just do not want to be belong to both organizations, APMA and the state; they want to pick only one. We cannot help that. We are a family and this is the  way we function.

Keith Greer, Esq.

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday Night at 9 PM (EST). This week's show features Healthcare attorney Keith Greer, Esq.. You can register for this event by clicking here

Eat Your Way to Boosting Network Success

Many networking events feature food and drink of some kind. Remember the following guidelines to maximize your advantage:

• Avoid alcoholic choices. You will stay sharp and focused if you ask the bartender to pour you juice instead of a mixed drink.
• Think small—small plates, that is. Large plates tie up your hands and divert your attention. Select a small plate and fill it with finger food so you will not need utensils.
• Work while you wait. Stuck in line waiting for your turn at the buffet? Do not waste that time; use it to network with those around you.
• Return to reconnect. Take small servings and return to the bar or buffet when you are ready to meet new people.

Source: Adapted from “Navigating the Business Social Event,” Cyndi Maxey, Maxey Creative Inc. via Communication Briefings

Query: Medical Marijuana and Liability Issues

If a physician prescribes medical marijuana and for some reason the person for whom it is prescribed is under the influence of the marijuana and is involved in something illegal or an accident, can the physician who prescribed the marijuana be held culpable and be sued, and if so....will the malpractice carrier stand behind the prescriber?

Michael J. Schneider, DPM, Vail, CO

Editor’s comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. From a medical-legal standpoint, writing for medical marijuana should carry the same liability risk as any other controlled substance. Nevertheless, podiatrists who intend to write prescriptions for medical marijuana should contact their malpractice carriers for guidance.

RE: Dry Gangrene (Jefferson J. Mennuti, DPM)
From: Multiple Respondents

With this ominous presentation and history of attempted revascularization and isolated amputation, it would be prudent to review the previous angiogram or perform another as well as a new non-invasive vascular study. If there is flow to the midfoot, then you would be doing this patient a tremendous service in performing a definitive, if not at least a functional, amputation; either a transmetatarsal amputation or Choparts. Patients function quite well with them. Post-op footgear is easily acquired, and patients can remain ambulatory. I also  advise a Tendo-Achilles lengthening in any form that you are comfortable with. Limited dissection with a percutaneous tenotomy or a White procedure will accomplish your goal very well. 

Alec Hochstein, DPM, Great Neck, NY, ahochstein@aol.com

You must proceed with a systematic approach taking in all sub-specialists. Get the proper diagnostic tests, blood work, MRI, etc. Call his or her internist and your vascular surgeon. Do not assume a Silverhawk; get the operative record. Have this report as well as arterial Doppler testing with both waveforms and ABI's when you call for your consult. Get him to a hyperbaric facility and start his treatments as soon as you can. Pre-treat for about 10 treatments for 90 minutes at 45 FSW, then have the vascular surgeon do what he can regarding revascularization. My first gut impression is when he is as good as he can be from a vascular standpoint, he will most likely need a TMA. Continue the hyperbarics for a total of 30 treatments at 45 FSW. The 3rd toe appears doomed at this point. Unless the vascular surgeon can give you a good prognosis regarding 4/5, it looks like he should have the TMA. Then find a good orthotist and get him a stump filler, when appropriate.

Frank Lattarulo, DPM, NY, NY, doclatt@aol.com

Perform arterial studies: ABI, wave forms, and toe pressures. A TCOM is helpful, and will let you know the area of amputation to which he is likely to heal. I would get this before touching the patient. A value of 40 or above is likely to heal.

David L. Nielson, DPM, Roanoke, VA,  pampantla@hotmail.com

Editor's Note: Dr. Wm W. Godfrey's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Return of a Deadbeat Patient (Michael Rosenblatt, DPM)
From: Richard A. Simmons, DPM

I am always concerned when I read the rhetoric about collecting patients' Medicare deductibles and co-pays: "You are required by law to make every "reasonable" attempt to collect that fee."

The problem that has existed forever is physicians face federal prosecution, but deadbeat patients do not.  Correct me if I am wrong, but there are no federal "teeth" that physicians can use to collect money from patients. As much as we should not make a habit of excusing Medicare deductibles and co-pays, until the federal government makes the patient liable for non-payment, all of our actions are moot.

Richard A. Simmons, DPM, Rockledge, FL, RASDPM32822@aol.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

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 – 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.

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

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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