The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

June 18, 2013 #4,799 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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TN Podiatrist Uses Dobb's Method of Casting for Baby's Rocker-Bottom Feet

Lilly Christine Bogle was born on October 1, 2012 with one functioning kidney and a rocker bottom foot. On a whim, her mother talked to podiatrist Dr. Mark Saperstein of Stones River Hospital to ask his opinion on her daughter's condition. After a brief assessment, he suggested she meet with fellow podiatrist Dr. Christi Bouldin, who excels in the Dobbs method of casting.

Dr. Christi Bouldin

Dr. Bouldin immediately took on the task of healing Baby Lilly. Now, as an  active eight month old, Lilly's feet are now flexible enough for surgery in October. A full recovery is expected. Mom is looking forward to Lilly's first steps thanks to Dr. Bouldin.

Source: Stones River Hospital News

IL Podiatrist Finds Special Meaning in Father's Day

When a car accident left Dr. Eric Bettag physically disabled six years ago, it didn’t seem like any good could come of the situation. After years of rehabilitation and therapy have helped him get back on his feet, he said he realized that the accident brought him closer to his family. At the time, Eric had been wrapped up in opening his own podiatry clinic and his children usually were in bed by the time he got home from his long workdays.

Eric Bettag and his five children (clockwise from bottom left) Ben, 10; Alice, 15; Elizabeth, 18; Isabel, 13; and Sarah, 16. (Photo: Sandy Bressner)

He said it was difficult to see his children while he was unable to move. “That was probably the hardest thing for me in the beginning,” he said. “They had seen me my whole life a certain way, and all of a sudden you’re like this blob.” Despite grim predictions from doctors, Bettag now walks two to three miles every day, and his children regularly accompany him up and down their street. “Everyone said they didn’t think any good would come out of it, but there has been some good,” he said. In the three hours he spends walking with them each day, he has learned a lot more about each of his children than he ever would have if he still was working long hours, like he was before the accident.

Source: Nicole Weskerna, Geneva Kane County Chronicle [6/15/13]

TX Podiatrist Wins Victoria TX Council Seat

A new Victoria city councilman will take the oath of office Tuesday after winning the runoff election. Dr. Andrew Young, 39, defeated incumbent Joe Truman, 50, in the race to represent Super District 5, the southern half of Victoria. In complete but unofficial results, Young, who co-owns Podiatry Associates of Victoria, took 676, or 54.1 percent of the votes.

Dr. Andrew Young

With major issues facing the City Council, including adopting a new budget and several big-ticket infrastructure projects to prioritize, Young said he is starting with a steep learning curve but is eager to get to work. "I look forward to following in (Truman's) footsteps, serving Victoria, and continuing to move Victoria in a good direction," Young said.

Source: Melissa Crowe, Victoria Advocate [6/15/13]

MD Podiatrist Reflects on Overcoming Cancer

Dr. Alex Kor

As the son of two Holocaust survivors, the strength to persevere against tremendous adversity coursed through his veins. Dr. Alex Kor would need that very fortitude when he was faced with testicular cancer at the age of 26, while he was in podiatry school. What could have ended his career, and life, would not. Alex gratefully reflects upon his family’s legacy against the odds.

Editor's note: This moving story can be read here.

Source: Cancer inCytes Magazine [Summer 2013]

VA Podiatrist Indicted for Perjury in Orthofix Investigation

A Virginia woman was charged today with making a false declaration to a grand jury. Dr. Ilene Terrell, 65, of Fredericksburg, VA, was indicted with making a false declaration to a grand jury. The indictment alleges that Terrell, a podiatrist, and representatives of Orthofix, Inc., manipulated patient medical records to induce Medicare to pay for claims for Orthofix bone growth stimulator medical devices that did not meet Medicare’s payment guidelines. When Terrell was asked about these matters before the grand jury, she lied, claiming that she was not aware that any records had been manipulated. If convicted, Terrell faces a statutory maximum penalty of five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine on each count.

Source: US Dep't of Justice [6/12/13]

SGR Pay Cuts Play Spoiler to Optimistic Medicare Forecast

The caretakers of Medicare's finances outlined a doomsday scenario in which the sustainable growth rate formula imposes a 24.7% cut to physician payments in 2014. According to the annual report of the program's board of trustees, Medicare pay rates, on average, would drop to 61% of what private insurers pay for the same health services, also bringing rates below what Medicaid pays.

The situation would not improve over time, with Medicare rates dipping below 40% of what private insurers pay as the system approaches the year 2050. Although the trustees acknowledged that Congress is unlikely to allow such an extreme application of the SGR to occur, they urged lawmakers to shore up Medicare's finances without additional delay.

Source: Charles Fiegl, amednews [6/10/13]

RE: Fissuring Under 4th and 5th Digits
From: David W. Mader, DPM

I have found it is not the dryness of the skin that is causing the problem but rather the moisture in the area. I see it in adults who do not dry off between and under the fifth toe. The water evaporates and causes the cracking. I recommend that they dry off the area and use topical anti-fungal tinctures that would dry it out. They could also use Zeasorb AF powder.
 
David W. Mader, DPM, Naugatuck, CT, docmader@gmail.com

RE: Medicare Enrollment Revocation for Providers Occurring for Reasons You May Not Suspect - Be Proactive!
From: Name Withheld (FL)

Revocation of Medicare enrollments are occurring for physicians and other providers not only in jurisdictions where they previously practiced; but, as a result of those enrollments in prior Medicare jurisdictions, revocations are now occurring for their Medicare enrollments where they currently practice. Revocation is a serious problem resulting not only in termination of revenue, but re-enrollment in the Medicare program in these cases is barred for ONE YEAR.

How is this happening? Here is an example, and you will agree that it happens all the time, thus being an issue that EVERY practice will need to pay attention to and be proactive in preventing!

Dr. Jones was doing his fellowship in...

Editor's note: Name Withheld's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Time for EBM Study on Custom Orthotics (Carl Solomon, DPM)
From: Kevin Kirby, DPM

Over the last seven years, I have written one paper and two book chapters which describe, in detail, the multitude of research studies which show that foot orthoses not only effectively alter the kinetics and kinematics of gait, but also show that foot orthoses are very effective at treating a number of foot and lower extremity biomechanical pathologies. Most of these research studies are published in non-podiatric scientific journals. I highly recommend Paul Scherer's recently published book which focuses on the research evidence for foot orthoses (Scherer PR (ed), Recent Advances in Orthotic Therapy: Improving Clinical Outcomes with a Pathology Specific Approach, Lower Extremity Review, USA, 2011).
 
Kirby KA: Foot orthoses: therapeutic efficacy, theory and research evidence for their biomechanical effect. Foot Ankle Quarterly, 18(2):49-57, 2006.
 
Kirby KA: "Evolution of Foot Orthoses in Sports", in Werd MB and Knight EL (eds), Athletic Footwear and Orthoses in Sports Medicine.  Springer, New York, 2010.
 
Kirby KA: Introduction to Recent Advances in Orthotic Therapy.  In Scherer PR (ed), Recent Advances in Orthotic Therapy: Improving Clinical Outcomes with a Pathology Specific Approach, Lower Extremity Review, USA, 2011.

Kevin A. Kirby, DPM, Sacramento, CA, kevinakirby@comcast.net

RE: Time for EBM Study on Custom Orthotics (Carl Solomon, DPM)
From: Richard A. Simmons, DPM
 
Dr. Solomon states that he wants our experts to compare “custom” orthotics to OTC inserts to see if there is a statistical difference between the two. In my opinion, the study has to have thousands of patients who are being treated by exacting standards, such as the position the foot is held during casting or impression, what are the x-ray findings, what are the clinical findings, mycotic/gryphotic hallux nails, etc.

Essentially, there should be one or two companies who are manufacturing these devices and they should have a standard level of quality control. Once that gold standard is achieved, then we can approach insurance companies with empirical information; however, I doubt we are moving into an area of increased insurance reimbursement for anything.

Richard A. Simmons, DPM, Rockledge, FL  RASDPM32955@gmail.com

RE: Scholl Professor Sues Associate Dean for Defamation
From: Jon Purdy, DPM
 
I too was a student under both of these fine gentlemen. I knew Dr. Hrywnak to be one of the few instructors who could provide us with true practice management and “real world” insight. He is VERY pro-podiatry and gave both the positive and negative sides of professional practice. It would be a shame for students to lose his presence.
 
It was my experience that many of our professors did not have to deal with the political forces or market pressures of private practice. It wasn’t until I entered private practice that I found many “opinions” to be way off the mark. I found what I had learned from Dr. Hrywnak to be extremely accurate. I thank him to this day for having taught us what he did.
 
Medical practice is extremely rewarding and extremely tough, and it doesn’t appear it will get easier any time soon. Candy-coating what students will face, I feel, is irresponsible. Teaching true practice management to help students understand what they will be up against, and providing them with the knowledge to succeed should be foremost in the colleges. The Ohio college was smart enough to implement a true practice management course. Dismissing instructors like Dr. Hwrynak is the opposite of that.
 
If there is anything dissuading students from practicing podiatry, it is the politics and shortsightedness that has led to this repetitive wave of residency shortages.
 
Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA, Podiatrist@mindspring.com

RE: Four Out of Five Podiatrists Recommend These High Heels

Deserving of APMA "Seal" of Acceptance?

Source: submitted by Dr. Paul Kesselman

PRACTICE FOR SALE - CHICAGO

Three-office practice; newly furnished; all offices are within 20-30 min of driving; great for one Dr. coverage; well-rounded surgical/diabetic/sport medicine practice; grossing up to $500K/year; can be purchased with real estate or separately. only serious inquiry to dpms2@hotmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - ARIZONA

TERRIFIC Opportunity in Southern Arizona!! Profitable podiatry practice with outstanding growth potential. Located within a medical/professional office complex. New EMR system with 3 computer stations. Meaningful use met thru Stage II. Very reasonably priced. Will remain through transition period. Contact 520-304-2443 in evenings (PST) for serious buyers only reflisa@centurylink.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to: practiceforsaleswfla@gmail.com

PRACTICE AVAILABLE FOR QUICK AND IMMEDIATE SALE - ILLINOIS

40 year-old podiatry practice, owner retiring. Currently working part-time. 2012 gross income $265,000. Formerly one million dollar practice revenue. Can be purchased for price of equipment, furnishings, and supplies plus. Owner will assist in transfer. The right individual can re-establish former practice while maintaining established current income and patient flow.  Contact Jack at (847) 337-0166 for information and viewing. (Waukegan, Illinois) caraddict59@att.net

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT/OFFICE FURNISHINGS FOR SALE - ILLINOIS

Liquidating two large podiatry offices.  Medical and surgical equipment available including Stryker electric power set, X-Cel X-ray units, X-ray developers, OEC 6600 mini C-arm, A-O and endoscopic sets, autoclaves, physical therapy units, surgical instruments and lights, office equipment and furnishings, and medical supplies.  Priced for quick sale. Waukegan, Illinois, and Kenosha, Wisconsin.  Call Jack @ (847) 337-0166. Delivery available. caraddict59@att.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - OPAL-RAD DIGITAL X-RAY UNIT

20/20 Opal-Rad digital X-ray unit 3 years old.  X-rays obtained by X-ray company showed that the unit is performing optimally when dismantled for storage and shipping.  $18,000 OBO. DrRhodes2@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

Excellent opportunity for a full time podiatrist to join busy group practice! Surgery, wound care, sports medicine. Affiliated with residency program. Personable and great communication skills a must! Competitive salary, bonus, benefits package. Send CV to footdoc22@gmail.com 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KENTUCKY 

Immediate opening in beautiful Southern Kentucky with 8-provider group with excellent reputation, full-time physical therapy, MRI, CPED/CO on staff along with a full schedule awaiting.  Wonderful place to raise a family, excellent schools and phenomenal quality and cost of living. Excellent compensation package, full benefits, and buy-in opportunity after 2 years. Email a letter of interest and CV: jonkim12000@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina's largest provider of foot care is a multi-doctor, multi-location practice currently seeking a highly skilled, personable, and hardworking physician to join our TEAM. South Carolina License is necessary. Above average salary and benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASHVILLE TENNESSEE

Want to live and practice in the "It City" Nashville, TN? ISO  well-trained (PSR-36) individual. Located in suburb of Nashville. Hospital and Surgery Center privileges. Rearfoot and Ankle allowed. Base pay, bonus incentives, and benefits. Send resume to Mendozadpm@comcast.net. $1,000 finder's fee paid to referring individual with hiring.

ASSOCIATE POSITION IN CHICAGO

Full- or part-time to do house calls; make your own schedule; logistical support provided. Contact dpms2@hotmail.com

POSITION AVAILABLE - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Two doctor practice looking for an associate to take retiring doctor's position with partnership opportunity for the right person. Competitive salary, health insurance and incentives. Two offices serving a diverse number of routine, surgical and wound care patients. Two years surgical residency training and FL license required. If interested in this great opportunity please e-mail CV, surgical log and references to toesrus7@yahoo.com.

POSITION AVAILABLE– CHICAGO

Weil Foot Ankle & Orthopedic Institute is expanding their presence in the Chicago-metropolitan area and suburbs and is recruiting qualified podiatric surgeons. A three-year residency is required and a podiatric fellowship is preferable. Current practicing podiatric practitioners in Chicago and surrounding area are also welcome to join our rapidly expanding practice that numbers 16 DPMs, a neurologist surgeon, and a primary care sports medicine physician. For more information contact info@weilfeet.com or call Stephanie Spiegel, COO, at (847)390-7666.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Busy, established practice in Redding California seeking surgically trained podiatrist for associate position leading into a partnership. All phases of podiatry, PSR-36 preferred. Two office locations, hospital and surgical center privileges. Please forward cover letter and CV to tjsong01@hotmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Dynamic, busy practice in Dallas/Fort Worth area, seeking surgically trained, Board Certified/Board Qualified Podiatrist, PSR-36 preferred. Excellent salary and benefits compensation package, for the right candidate, who is motivated to work hard. Contact/Send resume to: jmh6122@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - YORK, PA

Busy multi office practice looking for highly motivated PSR 24/36 podiatrist. This well established 39 yo 2- physician practice has excellent rapport with physician community. Intent is an associate leading to partnership after the first year. Competitive salary &benefits. Email CV to Footdocpa@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION WITH OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY- WISCONSIN

Immediate need for talented surgeon with professional, caring and compassionate bedside manner to effectively treat, manage, and expand a booming patient population in multi-location practice with self sustained surgery center (with opportunity for investment and ownership). Practice located within driving distance to Chicago. Please send CV and letter giving insight into your personal treatment style including immediate and future goals to: associatematch@yahoo.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future, this position will provide for the possibility of partnership in the future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com

PODIATRIST NEEDED: NYC/QUEENS IMMEDIATE OPENING!

P/T Leading to full-time and partnership. PSR-36+ Min. Three office locations; NYC, ASTORIA & SUNNYSIDE QUEENS. All phases of podiatry; including Med., Forefoot, Rearfoot & Ankle SURGERY. Modern offices with all the Hi-Tech. equipment available. Candidate MUST have the skills & knowledge expected, ambitious, hard-working, ethical, detail-oriented and organized. A vibrant patient and staff-friendly personality a MUST! Good base salary, malpractice and % bonus incentive. You should easily surpass your bonus %. Reply with cover letter and C.V. to hansfeet@aol.com.

WANTED: ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST  - ILLINOIS

4 Days per Week Chicago Practice - will perform all phases of podiatric medicine Accredited JCAHO Surgical Suite. Benefits will cover Malpractice and Health Insurance. Six Figure Base Salary. Inquiries Contact:  Dr. J. B. Jenkins - 773-374-5300

ASSOCIATE WANTED - MANHATTAN AND NORTHERN NJ

For group practice. Excellent opportunity to be the first podiatrist to join our team! PT/full-time negotiable. Convenient on-site surgical center. Current licensure in NJ and/or NY required. Call Gina 212-223-0716 or email CV to gina@premiersurgicalpavilion.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PENNSYLVANIA

Associate Wanted for busy, multifaceted podiatry practice in Chester and Delaware counties, Pennsylvania. Seeking PSR-24/36 trained podiatrist for full/part time associate position. Two offices and hospital privileges. Send CV and letter to 123bunion@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BAKERSFIELD, CA

Office and hospital-based podiatry group seeking a highly trained surgical associate to compliment our 3-doctor group. Minimum PSR-36 trained with rear-foot reconstructive experience required. Must have CA license and x-ray and fluoroscopy license. Previous practice experience is preferred. Competitive salary and benefits package. Please forward cover letter and CV to modpm@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 PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 DPMs and Students

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