The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

June 24, 2011 #4,189 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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MN Podiatrist Discusses Flip-Flops

As summer kicks off, many Minnesotans will swap their snow boots for flip flops, but Dr. Craig Stibal, a podiatrist with Park Nicollet, says there are some things to consider when choosing a shoe. "Flip-flops are not a good idea because they don't supply support. They are okay in small doses, but the reality is that you should not live in them," says Stibal. 

Dr. Craig Stibal

Some flip-flops are better than others, says Stibal. "The extremely flat flip-flops are going to be worse for you. Something with an arch support is better, but still not a great alternative.
 
Source: Myfox.com [6/21/11]

Podiatrists Can Play a Role in Reducing Falls in the Aged: Australian Podiatrist

Podiatrists could have a greater role to play in the prevention of falls in the older population should the results of an Australian trial, published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), be anything to go by. Marking a world-first, an Australian team of researchers from La Trobe University recently discovered that they could lessen an older person’s risk of falling by more than 35 per cent using a multi-faceted podiatry intervention. 

Martin Spink

The intervention package, which can be implemented by any podiatrist in any setting, boasts a holistic approach to falls prevention and includes foot orthoses, footwear advice and provisions, a home-based foot and ankle exercise program, and an educational booklet.“It’s a whole podiatry package that will help older people to reduce their risk of falling,” said researcher, podiatrist and PhD candidate, Martin Spink. “The intervention will also reduce the number of falls an older person will have because they will have stronger ankles and feet muscles, more balance, and firm and supportive footwear.”

Source: Yasmin Noone, Australian Aging Agenda [6/23/11]

FL Podiatrist Recognized at National Jefferson Awards Ceremonies

Dr. Andrew D'Errico, a Port St. Lucie podiatrist who has helped many people beyond his medical practice, was honored this week at the 2011 National Jefferson Awards for Public Service ceremonies in Washington. He was recognized for managing the medical team for Honor Flight of Southeast Florida, which provides free flights to Washington to visit the World War II Memorial for veterans. D'Errico also was recognized for providing free surgical clinics, shoes, and clothes at Romanian orphanages, and for helping with the Special Olympics. 

Dr. Andrew D'Errico (Photo Deborah Silver)

The National Jefferson Awards for Public Service ceremonies recognize volunteerism and public service at both the national and local level. D'Errico joined dozens of local volunteers from around the country, as well as a handful of national figures, some famous, at banquet ceremonies Monday and Tuesday nights. Even in the midst of being honored Monday, D'Errico ended up helping someone else. The volunteer next to him, a young woman, went into an epileptic seizure. D'Errico quietly attended to her until paramedics arrived. "I felt like I was back on an Honor Flight," he said. "If it's medical, I just jump in there."

Source: Cathy Reeder, Stuart News [6/23/11]

CA Podiatrist Indicted in Identity Theft Scheme

Dr. Bill James Releford Jr., the pillar of Inglewood whose successful national health program was so impressive to President Obama that he was invited to the White House to watch the Super Bowl earlier this year, was indicted by a federal grand jury for an identity theft scheme that defrauded banks out of more than $3 million, it was learned this week.

Releford, 51, an internationally renowned podiatrist who practices in Inglewood, is one of six people for whom a federal grand jury returned a 29-count indictment May 4, charging them with a laundry list of illegal actions which, if convicted, carry maximum statutory sentences ranging from 750 years to 870 years, according to the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office spokespersons.

Source: Betty Pleasant, Los Angeles Wave [6/22/11]

Court Strikes Down VT Data-Mining Law

In a victory for pharmaceutical and data-mining companies, the U.S. Supreme Court has struck down a Vermont statute that sought to outlaw the practice of pharmacies selling information to drugmakers about doctors' prescribing habits.

In a 6-3 decision Thursday, the high court ruled that Vermont's law violated constitutional protections on free speech even though lawmakers drafted it with the goal of preventing pharmaceutical companies from using direct marketing to persuade doctors to prescribe more-costly drugs to patients. "While Vermont's goals of lowering the costs of medical services and promoting public health may be proper, (the contested law) does not advance them in a permissible way," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority.

Source: Joe Carlson, Modern Healthcare [6/23/11]

How to Disagree

Never hesitate to disagree in a polite but forceful manner. You can support your point of view without alienating others. Simply say: “I understand your point, and I appreciate your perspective. Let me explain my point of view.”

Source: Adapted from One Phone Call Away: Secrets of a Master Networker, Jeffrey Meshel with Douglas Garr, Portfolio, via Communication Briefings

Query: Scarf Complication

This is a 53 year old female whom  I've done three surgeries on with serious complications. The nightmare began when she 'walked' on a Scarf, which resulted in a comminuted fracture. A salvage procedure involving a mini-rail fixator and bone void filler was employed at this time. About a week later, she "bumped her foot against the door post" and displaced the repair. 

Post-op CT Scans

Six weeks later, another salvage procedure was performed using a tubular plate and bone chips. The CT scan shows non-union. (it has been 3 mos). I'm leaning towards referring her to another doctor at this point. Perspectives from those who have experienced similar nightmares are welcomed.
 
Name Withheld

Query: e-Prescibing Deadline
 
With the deadline rapidly approaching, it does not appear that my practice will be in compliance and will lose Medicare money in 2012 as our penalty. For those of us without integrated EMR, this is an unfair and unrealistic policy. Although I initially heard of the possibility of postponements and exemptions, I have not heard anything recently. What is the current status of this proposal?
 
Greg Caringi, DPM, Lansdale, PA

RE: Antibiotic Bone Penetration (Jeffrey Kass, DPM)
From: Bill Trabulsi, DPM, Peter Bregman, DPM

I believe that clindamycin has excellent bone penetration. Levaquin has good bone penetration but is not as effective for S. aureus.

Bill Trabulsi, DPM, Lutz, FL, trabulsidpm@tampabay.rr.com

There are no good studies on this that are not biased by drug companies, but clindamycin has been well reviewed in the literature for this and has shown excellent bone penetration, and of course, is a gram positive weighted antibiotic.

Peter Bregman, DPM, Henderson, NV, Pbregman@barrettfootandankle.com

RE:  Clinical Success with Poor Radiological Result (Jeffrey Conforti, DPM)
From: Barrett E Sachs, DPM

After reading all the responses regarding poor post-op x-ray results, I am simply amazed that anyone would even consider doing anything else for the patient in question. Unsatisfactory x-rays post-op don't mean a whole lot if the patient is happy and asymptomatic. Many times slight deviations in our intended result mean absolutely nothing on x-ray. As it has been stated ...treat the patient, not the x-rays...never make any diagnosis based solely on x-rays.

Barrett E Sachs, DPM,  Plantation, FL, uncletenose@aol.com

RE: Practice Fusion (Justin H. Sussner, DPM)
From: Conway T. McLean, DPM

I have not used Practice Fusion very long, perhaps 2 or 3 months, but I have been singularly impressed with their expertise in the art of public relations. I recently received an e-mail that was, first and foremost, a sincere, heartfelt apology. What made this so interesting was that at no time was I ever aware that some technical glitch had occurred with their system.

From the start, I have been amazed by their level of customer care. And from a free system! That's the amazing part.

Disclosure: I have no association with Practice Fusion.

Conway T. McLean, DPM, Chicago, IL drcmclean@gmail.com

Re: FL Podiatrist Sees Home Visits as the Next Big Thing (Barry Mullen, DPM)
From:  Richard A. Simmons, DPM
 
I have to agree wholeheartedly with Dr. Mullen. I challenge anyone to show a business model that shows profitability for housecalls when one maintains an office. The only logical business model I have seen is one that gets the podiatrist out of the office so that the staff can get work done.

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

PRACTICE FOR SALE - DENVER, COLORADO
 
Very low overhead in a multi-disciplinary setting within medical building at a prestigious hospital. Young patient population. Low purchase price/immediate availability. Tremendous growth potential. Present doctor will stay for transition. Perfect for family person or new practitioner. Contact podpracsale@hotmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - KENT, WASHINGTON

Established satellite practice, easily expandable to suite your needs. One day/week $50K gross, low overhead!! Includes reupholstered Midmark 417 (4 position keypad), Excel X-ray, Processor, Ritter M9, Miltex/Bianco instruments, Lakeside cart, cast cutter, etc. Shared office with 2 Referring Family Practitioners. Price $25K. Reply: practiceforsale18@yahoo.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MISSOURI

Well established, but still growing. Grossed over $300,000 last year. Located in a thriving medical community. Good payer mix. All aspects of podiatry needed in the area. Do not let this opportunity to own your own practice pass you by. Contact footdoc2002@yahoo.com for more information.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MISSION VIEJO, CA

Relocating to Tulsa. Great opportunity. Located at Mission Regional Hospital. Sale price $205,000 including supplies. Gross income 2010 was $340,000. Gross income 2011 estimate $420,000. Approximately 1200 sq ft with 3 treatment rooms, digital x-ray and fully computerized. A/R available at 50% discount. 949-702-1052. David Stoller, DPM (Family Footcare) david@missionviejofootcare.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 $760K, most surgery is currently being referred out. Financing available. Please call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - WASHINGTON STATE - SUBURBAN SEATTLE

16 year established part time practice. Includes Midmark 417 (4 position keypad), Excel X-ray, processor, Ritter M9, instruments, bandaids, etc. 1 Day/week $50K gross. Professional Business appraisal at $48K. Asking $35K. Shared office with 2 FP's. Easily expandable. Reply: practiceforsale18@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – IOWA CITY AREA

Modern practice seeking a well-trained (PSR 24/36) associate. Excellent opportunity for an energetic, hardworking individual with strong surgical and medical skills. Solid referral network and 13 years of growth. Come live in the Iowa City area and enjoy the quality of life and stability of a Big Ten University community. Competitive salary and benefit package available. If interested, fax CV to 319-354-1014 or e-mail to dave@341foot.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NEW JERSEY

Seeking associate for busy, growing practice located in Toms River, Ocean County. Looking for PSR 24/36, board eligible doctor. Basic podiatry a must. Practice has a up-to-date EMR and practice management program. Digital x-rays, ultrasound, laser, vascular studies. Excellent opportunity for highly motivated and ethical DPM. Send CV to toesec@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – NEW YORK CITY

Looking for someone with at least 2 yrs of 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 - 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 POSITION/PART TIME - ORANGE COUNTY CALIFORNIA

Experienced podiatrist - 2-3 days/week, two office locations in beautiful south Orange County California. Exceptional opportunity for seasoned semi-retired practitioner. Fax or e-mail Resume and LOI to 949-488-0868 Info@feetfixer.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHEAST GEORGIA

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 - 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 - ST. LOUIS

Group practice looking for podiatrist to join group and solely take over one location. Group's podiatrists enjoy incentive compensation plan (personal production and sharing group profits), benefits including health and malpractice. Perfect opportunity for solo practitioner to join group setting. Please forward CV to StlPodGroup@gmail.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

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

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

STORE FRONT OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE - NASSAU COUNTY NEW YORK

Office Space available for sublet or long-term lease. Nassau County established podiatry location for over 30 years. Fully equipped, and no investment required. Excellent Opportunity!!! Reply to: rrranch7@yahoo.com

TURN-KEY PODIATRIC OFFICE - CALIFORNIA

Fully equipped modern suite with built-ins at Mission Regional Medical Center, Mission Viejo CA. Four treatment rooms, New Midmark chairs, x-ray/processor, phone system & much more. $45,000/assume lease. Call Jackie, 949-493-8020.

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