The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

June 02, 2012 #4,478 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Salon Pedicures May Lead to MRSA Infections: MI Podiatrist

Pedicures are seen as the must-have summer beauty treatment by many people, but not checking the cleanliness of your salon may lead to an MRSA bacterial infection. Dr. Jeffrey Frederick, a podiatrist at NorthPointe Foot & Ankle in Berkley, said that an MRSA infection is far worse than a normal infection. 

Dr. Jeffrey Frederick

“We all have staff bacteria on our skin, but over the last few years, this super bacteria has come to light and it makes the symptoms of a normal infection far worse,” said Frederick.  “… If you’ve gone for a pedicure and [see] some redness on the side of your nails, it may be an MRSA infection. You can’t just say go home and soak your toe and it’ll go away,” said Frederick. “It needs to be managed with antibiotics appropriately that’ll kill the MRSA bacteria.”

Source: Pat Sweeting, CBS Local [5/30/12)

Barry Receives Funding in 2012 State Budget

Through the collective advocacy efforts of the Department of External Affairs, the School of Podiatric Medicine, the Center for Juvenile Justice, the Division of Nursing, and the School of Social Work, Barry University has received state funding in the amount of $523,520. Florida Gov. Rick Scott recently signed the state’s budget which included the line items containing Barry’s funding. The money provided will go toward funding three Barry initiatives that address vital needs in the state and aim to reduce overall costs to taxpayers. 

Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine

The School of Podiatric Medicine’s Paul & Margaret Brand Research Center and Barry’s Center for Juvenile Justice will receive $200,000 and $250,000 respectively. Barry’s Diabetes Amputation Prevention Program at the Brand Research Center will enable researchers to conduct evidenced-based evaluation of diabetic amputations with an end-goal of making recommendations to reduce the cost of healthcare through limiting amputations. The Juvenile Justice Center will continue to work closely with public defenders to enhance representation of minors and reduce recidivism.

Pedicures are a No-No for Diabetics: Bahamian Podiatrist

It's almost summer, and most women are looking forward to getting a pedicure and showing off those pretty toenails, but diabetics should consider the potential downsides of pedicures. "People with diabetes are at high risk for a number of complications, including infections, ulcers, and amputations," says podiatrist Dr. Monique Mitchell. 

Dr. Monique Mitchell

If there is a break in the skin, bacteria can lead to a life-threatening situation. "As podiatrists, we recommend that individuals with diabetes do not receive pedicures because of the often questionable sanitary conditions of a beauty salon and the skills of the individual performing the pedicure," says Mitchell.

Source: Guardian [5/29/12]

IL Podiatrist Elected President of Federation of Podiatric Medical Boards

The Federation of Podiatric Medical Boards (FPMB) elected Neil L. Horsley, DPM, to serve as President of its Board of Directors. The mission of the FPMB is to be a leader in improving the quality, safety and integrity of podiatric medical healthcare by promoting high standards for podiatric physician licensure, regulation, and practice. The FPMB provides reports to the states and shares the results of the Part III examination scores for applicants seeking licensure. Also, the organization provides license disciplinary reporting to the requesting states when a podiatric physician’s license is sanctioned by a reporting state. Dr. Horsley is a 1984 graduate of OCPM. He currently serves as the chair of the department of podiatric surgery and applied biomechanics at the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. 

Dr. Neil L. Horsley

Other officers elected for 2012-2013 were Robert Levine, DPM, Louisville, KY, Vice President; Kirk M. Contento, DPM, Chicago, IL, Secretary-Treasurer; Roy B. Corbin, DPM, Bangor, ME, Director; and Thomas B. Leecost, DPM, MD, Richmond, VA., Director. Larry I. Shane is the FPMB Executive Director.

University of Arizona's SALSA and iCAMP Mentor Top Budding Junior Scientists

The University of Arizona's Dr. Bijan Najafi, Associate Professor of Surgery and Founder of the Interdisciplinary Consortium for Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP) and Dr. David G. Armstrong, Professor of Surgery and Director of the Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA) participated in sponsorship of students in the novel Keep Engaging Youth in Science (KEYS) program. "We're grateful to KEYS' leadership for offering the opportunity to these young, bright minds," noted Dr. Armstrong. 

(L-R) Anahi Herrera (student), Dr. Bijan Najafi, Prof. David G. Armstrong, Poorva Rajguru (student), at the University of Arizona's BIO5 KEYS student luncheon.

Dr. Najafi said, "We love having them with us. Our postdocs love it. Our medical students love it. It is a win, win, win, win." The program, which lasts seven weeks each summer, allows top secondary school students the opportunity to pair up with top scientists in a laboratory environment.

FL Podiatrist Accused of Molesting Babysitter

A Weston podiatrist was behind bars Thursday after authorities say he molested his teen babysitter, then paid her $300 to keep her quiet about it. Dr. Augustine Bollo, 45, has been charged with one count of lewd and lascivious molestation in the April 25 incident at his Weston home, according to a Broward Sheriff's Office arrest report. The report said Bollo later admitted the act to the girl's mother and apologized.
 
Source: Brian Hamacher, NBC-TV (6) [5/31/12]

Query: Latest on Coding PRP Injections?

What is the current accepted way to code PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections for chronic plantar fascial pathology?

Steven A. Walters, DPM, Austin, TX

Response: There is no code for PRP injections. I suggest the unlisted code, CPT 28899, or Category III code, 0232T (injection(s), platelet rich plasma, any site, including image guidance, harvesting and preparation when performed).

You should be aware that many payers that I am familiar with consider this procedure to be investigational. I recommend that you pre-authorize this procedure so that there are no surprises afterwards. You should also inform your patients that they may be financially liable.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription

RE: Vision 2015, Vision 20/20
From: Ed Davis, DPM

Podiatry has been a profession in a relatively rapid state of evolution, with significant changes in the surgical training and privileging occurring with each new generation of graduating podiatrists. Vision 2015 of the APMA has attempted to address these changes, but I think it is time to take a longer term perspective for which I propose APMA Vision 20/20. Here are the steps that the APMA needs to take in order to ensure the continued growth of our profession.

1) Let's face it, we (or many) really want to be orthopedic surgeons of the foot, so we will need to step up the training requirements, perhaps to 4 year and maybe 5 year residencies. But, consider that after 4 years of college, 4 years of podiatry school and another 4 years of residency, can we still call such trainees podiatrists? Perhaps not, so...

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

RE: Unethical Behavior by Foot Solutions (Dennis Shavelson, DPM)
From: Campbell White

There are a few errors in Dr. Shavelson's rant that need to be cleared up. He has described me as a CPed and the national sales manager for the Novascarpa Group. I am neither. I am not a CPed, and I have never advertised myself as being one. I briefly sat in as the interim national sales manager for the Novascarpa Group, but that was almost a year ago, and my responsibilities are regional in nature.

The Chung Shi shoes you mention are not distributed by the Novascarpa Group. They are distributed by Michael Ertl & Associates in Germany. They were briefly distributed by Novascarpa for a few months, before being transitioned back to Europe. Finally, I have never been personally involved in any face-to-face negotiations with Foot Solutions corporate regarding...

Editor's note: Mr. White's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: VST Myodynamic (Neil Burrell, DPM)
From: Robert Eells, DPM

I also have experience with the VST. I too have had excellent results in treating neuropathy pain using the VST. I don't know what Chiropractors may be using, as referred to by Dr. Burrell in his post on May 28th. I began using the VST in 2008. Initially, examples were provided showing billing using either attended or unattended e-stim codes. I chose to use the unattended, G 0283, e-stim code in my practice.

After doing some research, I learned that some pain management specialists were treating intractable pain with e-stim and local anesthetic blocks. I decided to try this for myself and began using the unattended e-stim code for the VST treatments along with lidocaine injections to the tibial nerve in PT block fashion. This combination treatment achieved even better results (fewer treatments, faster improvement) than just e-stim alone. It continues to work for my patients in a high percentage of cases.

Disclosure: I have no financial relationship with V-Care.

Robert Eells, DPM, Des Moines, IA, rgeells@gmail.com

RE: Success Tips From the Masters (Bryan Markinson, DPM)
From: Allen Jacobs, DPM

I would like to interject a personal observation. Three years ago, a patient whom I was caring for, on whom I performed a revision surgery for a failed orthopedic midfoot fusion, informed me that her daughter was a first year student at one of the podiatry colleges, would be visiting her for the Christmas holiday, and wished to visit our office.

I met with her in December, 4 months into her first year of podiatry school. At her coaxing, her mother told her to ask Dr. Jacobs anything she wished. Her first question? "How much external fixation do I do?" I was a bit surprised, and asked why she would ask such a question as a student 4 months into her 1st year. She responded that... 

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

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

PRACTICE FOR SALE — BROOKLYN, NY

This practice has been in the same location for 31 years, seeing 80-100 pts/week, working 4.5 days/week. Grossing $350K and netting close to 70%. All surgery referred out. Low rent, option to buy the building in future. Asking $225K, doctor willing to finance. Call 800-983-4194, or email:contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN

Immediate opening for a full time/part-time PSR 24/36 podiatrist in a 30 year old, well established practice with an excellent reputation and referral base. State-of-the-art office with EMR, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound and beautiful office. Generous base salary, malpractice insurance, health insurance, benefits and bonus structure.  A well rounded and energetic podiatric surgeon needed for this group of 4 board certified podiatric physicians and surgeons. Please send CV to michiganfootandankle@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE - MANHATTAN

Part-time associate position making home visits in Manhattan. Please fax resume and references to 718-987-6648.

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 POSITIONS – NEW YORK CITY

Looking for someone with some working experience in a podiatric office. Two sessions (1/2 day) a week for July and August for Upper West Side of Manhattan. References a must. One 8 AM to 12, one 12 to 5 PM. Reply to fabienne.rottenberg@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - NORTH CAROLINA

New associate position available that may lead to partnership. We are a very busy practice providing care in both office and hospital settings. We are fully integrated in a large tertiary teaching hospital. We are located in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. Research opportunities are available. Applicant should be ethical, personable, hard working, and committed to quality in patient care. We are offering a competitive salary with bonus opportunities and a wide range of benefits. All interested candidates should send a CV to MFAS828@aol.com

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 - 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

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 POSITIONS – MARYLAND

Are you motivated, personable and enjoy working with the elderly? We are offering part-time positions in Maryland. Our group, Podiatry Management Services, provides care in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, Senior Homes, Adult Daycare and other similar facilities. Please e-mail your CV to: drhprosen@verizon.net or fax to 410-486-2049 or call Dr. Herbert Rosen at 410-580-0255.

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 - 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

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.

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

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 have it: Footcare@comcast.net

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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