The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

June 07, 2011 #4,180 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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CPMA Works With CMA and COA to Achieve M.D. License Parity

Podiatrists, tenders of corns, bunions and other troubles of the humble foot, are classified as second-class citizens in the medical world – a rung below full-fledged M.D.s. But with the surge in people with diabetes, they're playing a particularly vital role these days in preventing amputations. And there's a move afoot to boost their official status as well. "We kind of see ourselves as the profession that keeps people walking," said Dr. Jon Hultman, executive director of the California Podiatric Medical Association. "We've evolved over the last 30 or 40 years. What hasn't changed is this limited license," Hultman said. "We're treated differently even though the way we practice is essentially the same."

Dr. Jon Hultman

Podiatrists have attracted an unlikely ally in the bid to boost their status: the California Medical Association. The powerful doctors' lobbying group is notorious for its turf battles with chiropractors, nurse practitioners, and others it defines as "mid-level practitioners and other allied health professionals." But this time around, the CMA is playing the opposite role. It's teaming up with the California Podiatric Medical Association and the California Orthopaedic Association to consider putting the training of foot specialists on par with M.D. standards, according to CMA Chief Executive Officer Dustin Corcoran. The three groups are creating a task force to review the curriculum at California's two podiatry schools and, depending on the outcome, appeal jointly to the national Liaison Committee on Medical Education to reclassify the licensing for podiatrists.

Source: Jan Ferris, Sacramento Bee [6/5/11]

NYSPMA Elects New Officers and Trustees

The New York State Podiatric Medical Association has elected the following officers and trustees at its 115th Annual House of Delegates in Cooperstown. 

(L-R)  Incoming NYSPMA president Dr. Vito Rizzo and newly elected trustee Dr. Paul Liswood.

Elected were:

President:  Vito Rizzo, DPM
President-Elect: Gary Stones, DPM
Vice President: Robert Russo, DPM
Treasurer: Joseph Sciandra, DPM
Trustees: Paul Liswood, DPM (newly elected), Eric Walter, DPM (incumbent), William Pierce, DPM (incumbent), Daniel Keating, DPM (newly elected)

Foundation For Podiatric Medicine Elects Officers and Directors

The Foundation for Podiatric Medicine, the  educational arm of the the New York State Podiatric Medical Association (NYSPMA) elected its new officers at the NYSPMA House of Delegates held this weekend in Cooperstown, New York. The following podiatrists were elected: 

(L-R) Drs. Robert Rampino, Lawrence Santi, William Spielfogel, Charles Lombardi, Joseph Sciandra, Robert Russo, Paul Scheremeta, Roy DeFrancis, and Edward Buro.

President: Dr. Joseph Sciandra
Vice President: Dr. Robert Russo
Treasurer: Dr. Lawrence Santi
Directors: Drs. Robert Rampino, Eric Walter, William Spielfogel, Paul Scheremeta, Roy DeFrancis, and Charles Lombardi.

The Foundation for Podiatric Medicine, a non-profit 501c(3) organization, was established in 1986. Its mission is to offer continuing medical education, professional development and public information services.

IL Podiatrist and Son Climb Skyscaper in Fundraiser

Recently, Ken Jacoby, DPM (ICPM class of 1982) and son Cory Jacoby (SCPM class of 2013) participated in the "Hustle up the Hancock" in Chicago.

(L-R) Cory Jacoby and Dr. Ken Jacoby

After climbing 94 flights, father and son worked the podiatry medical station together, along with other SCPM students. This event helped raise funds for the Chicago Lung Association.

Antifungal Drug Delays Need For Chemo In Advanced Prostate Cancer

The oral antifungal drug itraconazole, most commonly used to treat nail fungus, may keep prostate cancer from worsening and delay the need for chemotherapy in men with advanced disease. Details of the finding, from a clinical trial led by Johns Hopkins experts, are scheduled for presentation on Saturday, June 4 at the 2011 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting (abstract #4532).

Identified as a potential anticancer drug after Hopkins scientists scoured a database of more than 3,000 FDA-approved drugs, itraconazole appears to block tumor blood vessel growth -- the only drug in its class to do so -- much like the anticancer drug bevacizumab (Avastin). The antifungal also disrupts a key cancer-initiating biological pathway called Hedgehog. Laboratory testing by Johns Hopkins scientist Jun Liu, Ph.D., has shown that human prostate tumors implanted in mice shrink when treated with itraconazole.

Source: Medical News Today [6/2/11]

A Better Way to Share Feedback

Gain cooperation when you want to share feedback. Instead of saying “Let me give you some feedback,” say “I have some ideas you might find useful. May I share my perspective with you?” Asking permission allows the other person to control the direction of the conversation.

Source: Communication Briefings

RE: MRI Evaluation of Recurrent Soft Tissue Mass (Catherine Wu, DPM)
From: Peter Bregman, DPM

The use of MRI for this is contra-indicated as stated by most manufacturers. A CT scan or ultrasound is perhaps a viable option though it may not provide you with more information. The bottom line is tell the patient that because the MRI is not an option, an excisional biopsy is warranted. It is likely that you would be removing whatever is in there anyway, so just be ready to have a frozen section done and prepare the patient for partial amputation, if need be.

Peter Bregman, DPM, Las Vegas, NV, pbregman@barrettfootandankle.com

RE: Collagen Injections (John Moglia, DPM)
From: Robert Chelin, DPM

Volumetric fillers are available from a number of companies, but are off-label use as "foot fillers." Products like Restylene, Juvaderm, Perlane, Redexis, and Sculptra can be used. There are a few others. Remember that most of the new fillers are non-animal-based and contain hyaluronate (HA) which is bio-degradable, are cross-linked, and contain dextrometer beads which  stimulate the production of new collagen. The fully absorbable dextrometer beads create a scaffolding effect for collagen growth.

The positive charge of the beads enables them to attract the body's own collagen and elastin, which bind together, providing a natural fill even after the HA has broken down. Syringes are available in either 1 or 2 cc, depending on the manufacturer, so cost can vary. Fees should be based on per syringe cost. The rule for injecting into an area is "less is more," since these products are hydrophyllic. Top up is usually required a few weeks later.

Robert Chelin, DPM, Toronto, Canada, ft-biz@rogers.com

RE: LA Podiatrist Testifies Before Congressional Committee on Health IT (Michael L. Brody, DPM)
From: David Gurvis, DPM

I believe that Dr. Brody is wrong on this issue. Yes, the bonuses will pay back the cost of the EHR and its implementation, but it will take several years. However, some competing studies show a decrease in care while the physician spends more time looking at the computer than examining the patient. These EHR programs do not "speak" with each other, so when referring a patient, you still need to print the data out and send it. Also, GIGO (garbage in - garbage out) applies. I have seen more patients referred to me by their family doctors with incorrect information in the EHR, particularly the medication list, which needs to be updated constantly.

Beyond all this, we have bureaucrats making rules and regulations as to what is meaningful. I have seen posts in here that state recording what a patient tells you about his blood pressure - for instance- is sufficient for a portion of meaningful use. Rather than take the BP, I get...

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

RE: Reflexology Massage Can be a Good Thing: FL Podiatrist (Charles Morelli, DPM)
From: Michael Lawrence, DPM

I find the reflexive response of Charles Morelli, DPM rather odd and more than a little contradictory to my letter questioning a colleague seemingly advocating "reflexology massage." I have nothing against the massage aspect, which Dr. Morelli seems to concur with. It is the reflexology part of the term, and in his response, he seems to feel the same way, hence his contradiction. Each time I Google "reflexology massage", it sure looks like just plain old reflexology, with the foot map designating head, heart, liver, etc. Therefore, it seems to me that we are not just talking about a good, old-fashioned foot massage, which it appears Dr. Morelli sends his patients to have performed. Bravo for him; they do feel great! I may do the same when I need to "punt" after my treatments are less than satisfactory.

My energy expended in debunking reflexology, which Dr. Morelli felt compelled to mention, represents no cause celebre. Rather, the hundreds of times it has come up over many years from patients, in social situations, from reflexologists, and even a former father-in-law, each requiring a good deal of time, and "energy", to explain why, as I understood things, this "therapy" made no sense. Some years ago, a woman patient asked the question about reflexology, and then summed it up pretty well herself by saying that when her brother lost his legs in the war, his heart and liver didn't stop. I've used that example many times since.
 
Michael Lawrence, DPM, Chattanooga, TN, ftdoc@joimail.com

RE: Reflexology Massage Can be a Good Thing (Charles Morelli DPM)
From: Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM

While I can see Dr. Morelli's position, to a point, how then does his referral not give huge credibility to all the things reflexolgists do? Does he believe there is a benefit to those adhesive detox pads reflexologists push? He states that he does not believe that rubbing the foot will improve the condition of the liver. Does he give his patients a list of dos and don'ts when they visit the reflexologists?

Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL, doc@footsportsdoc.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. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

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,   

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTHERN NJ

Well established, part-time practice is for sale in Northern NJ. Digital X-rays, EMR, located in a medical condo building. Surgery 35%, Routine 30%, Average Gross is 130K on 2 half days per week. Practice is expandable to full time with increasing hours and marketing. Real estate available for purchase. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

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 currently being referred out. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTHERN NJ

Well established, part-time practice is for sale in Northern NJ. Digital X-rays, EMR, located in a medical condo building. Surgery 35%, Routine 30%, Average Gross is 130K on 2 half days per week. Practice is expandable to full time with increasing hours and marketing. Real estate available for purchase. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

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 currently being referred out. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.complease e-mail your resume with cover letter to the Program's management company at victoriamanagers@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTH DALLAS, TX

PRACTICE FOR SALE - HOUSTON, TEXAS

28 year old busy, progressive practice for sale with an excellent reputation and well established referral base. Well trained, dedicated, supportive staff. Excellent cash flow $475K 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. softechpodiatrist@gmail.com
 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS PERMANENT P/T

Podiatrist needed for Medinah Spine/Rehab/Podiatry. Upper middle class suburb multi-disciplinary established office seeks perm P/T podiatrist to service established podiatry practice. Please call SueL 630-529-0077 or fax resume to: 630-529-0087.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

Seeking personable, ethical, motivated individual for a growing, well-rounded practice with potential for partnership. Must be PSR 24-36 trained. Competitive salary, incentive and benefits. Email CV to orin915@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - NEW JERSEY

Podiatrists wanted to work multiple nursing homes in New Jersey. Must have a N.J. license. Please contact 44footcare@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE - POSITION - SOUTHEAST GEORGIA & SOUTH CAROLINA

Seeking recent residency graduate to join practice. Must be PSR-24/36 trained. Multiple locations. Full range of services with new facility. E-mail to melissafoot@pol.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WA (KIRKLAND, SEATTLE, EVERETT, AND REDMOND)

Join one of the fastest growing podiatry practices in Washington state. Must be motivated to grow practice. Competitive salary and benefits. For more information go to seattlefootdoctor.com. Send resume to seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CANADA

Beautiful Victoria, B.C. Canada on the ocean, fast growing area. Associate for multi-office full scope practice. Reply to dr.cole@shaw.ca

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN MI (NOT DETROIT AREA)

Leading to partnership for rapidly growing 3-physician group practice. Must be residency trained and willing to learn and follow our very successful business model. Salary plus incentive. If you're unhappy with where you're at now this may be the answer! If, interested send CV to: paulapmac@me.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY & QUEENS

One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Preferably a Spanish speaking podiatrist. Contact me at Podocare@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST FLORIDA BEACHES

Excellent opportunity for an energetic, compassionate, hardworking individual with superior surgical and medical proficiency. Recent graduate or experienced practitioner. Excellent salary, benefits and partner-buy in offered, full admit privileges and surgical scope. Fax CV to Ecpodiatry@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NY

Opportunity of a Lifetime. Are you the one-in-a-million podiatrist I’m searching for? Do you aspire to greatness? If you have a great smile, great attitude, take initiative, then you should consider this exceptional opportunity. I am seeking a smart, residency-trained podiatrist with great surgical skills to become an associate in one of the top practices in the country. Don’t miss out on this outstanding opportunity! Please email your CV to institutebeaute@aol.com with “Attn: Sophia Johnson” in the subject line.

ASSOCIATE POSITION- NEVADA

Well established 22-year practice in Las Vegas/Henderson, Nevada seeking full-time associate. General podiatric care with moderate amount of surgery to be done in local hospital or surgery center. Competitive salary and benefits. Modern office in new area. Please respond by email to lvfootandankle@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK

Great opportunity to share “state-of-the-art” offices and equipment in mid-town Manhattan and White Plains with Board Certified podiatrist. Out-of-network or participating providers welcome. Please call 212-704-4310 for additional information and fax your CV to 212-704-4311

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NORTH CAROLINA

Well-established, busy podiatric practice is seeking highly motivated, well-trained and personable associate for full-time position. Competitive Salary and Benefits, Buy-in Opportunity. Interested persons must be actively pursuing or have NC license. Send resume and letter of intent to gpagpa530@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Southern California practice looking for highly motivated podiatrist for very busy, two location practice. Excellent salary and benefits offered. Please email resume to mrsmcmackin@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - NW INDIANA, CHICAGO AREA

2 Full-Time positions open - One for Northwest Indiana and one for the Chicagoland area. Must have 2-year surgical residency. Must be motivated and a self-starter. State License required. If interested email: f-massuda@footexperts.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,500 DPM's and Students

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