The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

June 28, 2012 #4,500 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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It's Important to Have Feet Checked for Cancer: APMA President

Walking on the beach, frolicking in the surf, participating in sports, strolling through a theme park while on vacation - your feet will carry you through a lot of fun this summer. But can paying attention to them help you avoid the most common form of cancer in America? Possibly, experts say. 

Dr. Joseph Caporusso

 "While skin cancers typically appear on areas of sun-exposed skin like the face, arms, and hands, they can also occur on areas that get much less sun, such as the feet," says Dr. Joseph Caporusso, a podiatrist and president of the American Podiatric Medical Association. "With flip-flops and sandals being common summer foot attire, more Americans than ever are exposing their feet to the sun's potential harmful rays. It's important for everyone to have their feet checked regularly by today's podiatrist for any signs or symptoms of skin cancer."

Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel [6/26/12]

New Zealand Podiatrist to Manage Team at World Orienteering Championship

Podiatrist Amber Morrison will fly off to Lausanne, Switzerland for the 2012 Orienteering World Championship that starts July 14. Orienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills using a map and compass to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain.

Ameber Morrison Examines Patient

It's the second championship for Amber who made the final after finishing fifth in her heat in Chanberry, near Lyon, France, but she's going to Switzerland as team manager of the New Zealand team at the World University Championship.

Source: Anendra Singh, Hawke's Bay Today [6/26/12]

Seventh Podiatric Medical Mission to Nicaragua a Success

The seventh podiatric medical mission to Chinandega, Nicaragua – a joint effort of Athens Podiatry Group, 20/20 Imaging Company, and Rotary International District 6400 – was recently completed. More than 100 patients without access to advanced medical care were evaluated, and 29 surgeries were performed.

Drs. Vicki Anton Athens and James Hill

The medical mission was organized by Dr. Vicki Anton Athens and Dr. James Hill of Athens Podiatry Group, a medical practice that has been serving Michigan residents for more than 25 years. The surgeries included procedures for club foot, amputations, and ankle fractures. Athens Podiatry Group was joined in this mission by Rotary International District 6400 of Michigan, which initiated the program.

APMA Region IV Meeting: Raises the Regional Bar

While much of the country was dealing with rain-soaked weather, over 350 podiatrists enjoyed sunny skies and warm temperatures at this year’s 96th Annual APMA Region IV Mid-Eastern CME Seminar at the Columbus Hilton at Easton, Columbus, OH.

Cadaver Labs were filled to capacity both days.

The successful event was held June 7-9, 2012. Attendees were treated to a spectacular mix of world-class scientific presentations, as well as several Cadaver labs. Exhibitors displayed the latest state-of-the art products in a robust exhibition hall.

Fewer Malpractice Claims When Docs Use EHRs: Study

A group of Massachusetts physicians saw a dramatic drop in malpractice claims after implementing electronic health-record systems, according to a research letter published by the Archives of Internal Medicine. Researchers from Harvard-affiliated organizations—including the Harvard Pilgrim health plan and Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates—merged closed claims data from a Massachusetts malpractice insurer for the years 1995 to 2007, with data from a random sample of physicians surveyed in 2005 and 2007. Researchers said 275 doctors were surveyed in 2005, and 189 were surveyed in both years. Among the latter group, just over 14% reported having been sued at least once.

The study found 51 unique malpractice claims, with 49 reported before EHR implementation and only two after. Thirteen of the pre-EHR claims resulted in payments, while the two identified as occurring post-implementation did not. General surgeons accounted for 13 (27%) of the pre-adoption claims, while internists and orthopedic surgeons each had one of the post-adoption claims.

Source: Andis Robeznieks, Modern Healthcare [6/25/12]

Overcome Procrastination

Overcome procrastination on a task that keeps slipping to the end of your to-do list. Instead of lamenting that you aren’t completing it, delegate that task to one of your staff members. Another option: Swap tasks with a colleague.
 
Source: Adapted from “The Secret of Overcoming Procrastination—Learn to Delegate,” Harriet Meyerson, Become a Better Leader, via Communication Briefings

RE: Fosamax and Neuropathy? (Norm Wortzman, DPM)
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM

I am not aware of any direct correlation between Fosamax and neuropathy, but people are placed on Fosamax for osteoporosis, and many people with osteoporosis may have Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency can cause neuropathy. You might want to check Vitamin D levels.
 
Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY, jeffckass@aol.com

RE: E-Prescribing (Jack Ressler, DPM)
From: Martin G. Miller, DPM

In reference to the eRx reporting, these are the codes that can be sent with it.  You can't get credit for eRx with just any other code. You must use one of these:

DENOMINATOR:
Patient visit during the reporting period (CPT or HCPCS): 90801, 90802, 90804, 90805, 90806, 90807, 90808, 90809, 90862, 92002, 92004, 92012, 92014, 96150, 96151, 96152, 99201, 99202, 99203, 99204, 99205, 99211, 99212, 99213, 99214, 99215, 99304, 99305, 99306, 99307, 99308, 99309, 99310, 99315, 99316, 99324, 99325, 99326, 99327, 99328, 99334, 99335, 99336, 99337, 99341, 99342, 99343, 99344, 99345, 99347, 99348, 99349, 99350, G0101, G0108, G0109

Martin G. Miller, DPM, Freeport, NY, mgmiller@optonline.net

RE: NY Assembly Passes Expansion of Scope of Practice Law (Jeffrey Kass, DPM)
From: Fred J. DeLucia, DPM

I find it a tremendous success as well as an inspiring message what our state association has achieved through their tireless perseverance, optimism, and foresight. Personally, I have been hearing the overwhelming negativity from so many practitioners over so many years (ever since I was a student) that our state shall never see an expanded (rather, a 'corrected') scope come to pass - "it will never happen" - they used to say.

To all those who believed this, I hope your outlook has been changed on a great many things. A glass is either half full or half empty, and looking at it half empty helps...

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

RE: NY Assembly Passes Expansion of Scope of Practice Law (Jeffrey Kass, DPM)
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM

I tend to agree with Dr. Kass, that on first look, the recently passed scope of practice bill potentially creates a two-tier licensing structure for podiatrists in NYS. At first look, it may be seen as unfair to the vast majority of DPM's who never had an opportunity to obtain board certification, or to be trained in a two or three year residency.

It also may seem unfair to many who have achieved surgical board certification after a one-year residency or alternative method. Many of the latter categories are actually the majority of us who teach and are attending podiatrists in two- and three-year residency programs (myself included). This thought process, however, is very short-sighted.

Without some tangible change in the scope of practice, ...

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

RE: NY Assembly Passes Expansion of Scope of Practice Law
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH

It is long overdue for podiatric physicians in New York State who are properly trained to have the right to perform surgery to treat problems people have affecting their ankle. The requirement that they hold board certification in rear foot surgery is not overly restrictive and is actually a model that other physicians should begin to follow. Both the New York State Legislature and those podiatric physicians who have supported it should be given credit.

While physicians such as psychiatrists, radiologists, and pathologists have an unrestricted license to practice medicine, those practitioners are certainly not qualified to perform any kind of surgery (in this case, thank G-d for the threat of being accused of malpractice and not being able to acquire hospital privileges to do so).

Giving anyone an unrestricted license is an anachronism, whether that person holds an MD, DO, or DPM. While an unrestricted license to practice was appropriate 60 years ago, it is not so today. Rather than be defensive, other branches of medicine should follow the model set by of our profession. No physician should hold an unrestricted license.

Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, levyleon@nova.edu

RE: Another Set of Foot Orthotics (Paul Keselman, DPM)
From: Simon Young, DPM

Contact the insurance carrier and get the devices pre-authorized. Usually, patients are allowed a new pair every 3 years. I agree that the patient should be seen and evaluated. Patients should not dictate their course of treatment; the practitioner should.

Simon Young, DPM, NY, NY, simonyoung@juno.com

Codingline & PM News In conjunction with AAPPM Present
The Greenbrier Coding & Practice Management Workshop - August 20-22

(Following the 2012 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting in Washington, DC)  

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Coming to Washington D.C. for the APMA National Meeting? Don't miss out on being treated like a President and First Family. Enjoy world class amenities including golf, tennis, spa, casino and children's programs. 

Speakers: Harry Goldsmith, John Guiliana, Barry Block, Michael Brody, Paul Kesselman, Jonathan Moore, Rem Jackson, Chad Schwarz, and other nationally-known authorities in morning-only presentations. 

 THE DEADLINE FOR RESERVING ROOMS IS JUNE 30th

Click Here for information or to Register

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

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA

Two office practice, hospital and surgery center privileges, trauma call, modern offices, EHR, digital x-rays. Excellent compensation package. Position may lead to partnership. Candidate needs to be experienced in foot and ankle reconstruction and trauma. Email letter of interest and CV to Dr. Joe Disabato at jdisabato@vfasa.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Full-Time Associate needed for busy multi-office locations in LA, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. SIX FIGURE SALARY PLUS BENEFITS!! Knowledge of Spanish is helpful. Good mix of office patients, house calls, some surgery, etc. NO NURSING HOMES!! Needed immediately. If interested, please send contact information and CV to scpodgroup@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NEW JERSEY

Podiatry office in Central NJ- Looking for a three year surgically trained associate who has entrepreneurial spirit for a very busy office. You will see new patients and have the potential to become board certified in two years. Partnership guaranteed within three years for the right person. Must be very outgoing and personable. Great opportunity for a person who is confident and a go getter." Please fax your CV to: 732-968-8821.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Full-time/Part-time, motivated, outgoing associate wanted for immediate job opening. Multi-office, multi-doctor practice based in Orange County, is looking for hard-working individual to treat wide range of patients. PSR 24 training a must and Spanish speaking a definite advantage. Email your CV to: ocpodiatryoffice@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – WILMINGTON, DELAWARE

Seeking full time associate, PSR 24/36 Board Qualified/Certified that is personable, highly motivated, ethical and hard working. Established 25 years old, well rounded, and busy practice. In large primary care based medical building with lab, X-ray, CT, ASC and medical aid unit. Multilingual is beneficial. Offering competitive salary with bonus opportunities and wide range of benefits. Partnership potential. Cover letter / CV to: Del.DPM@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO

Seeking motivated PSR 24/36 trained Podiatrist for busy established practice; EMR established; Good surgical opportunity; Competitive salary and benefits. Send CV to: podreply@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MASSACHUSSETTS

Looking for an extremely hard working podiatry associate for part-time work, opportunity for full time. Busy and expanding podiatry practice in the Merrimack Valley. Will work in both office and nursing home setting. In office, we have laser technology, electronic medical records, diagnostic ultrasound, x-rays, etc. Please email us at: resumesent11@comcast.net if you have interest in this position. If we find the right person, this opportunity could lead to partnership. Looking forward to hearing from you.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ST AUGUSTINE, FL

A well-established, solo-physician in St Augustine, FL; is seeking a full-time associate. Applicant should be well-trained with sound surgical skills, applicant must be board eligible/certified. Practice offers a state-of-the-art practice setting, with a good general mix of all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery. Competitive salary. E-mail resume to: drfootwound@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BOSTON/CAPE AREA

Boston/Cape Area Practice looking for physician experienced in surgical and medical care in office, clinical, and nursing home settings. Practice will provide opportunity to utilize training immediately. Both surgical and non-surgical applicants. Email CV to: drjaa@verizon.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION- WASHINGTON

A well-established practice with 4 locations in and around Seattle is seeking a full time/part-time associate podiatrist. Position involves clinical, nursing homes, laser therapy. Applicant should be well trained physician and a motivated, energetic self-starter, completed minimum a 24-month residency. Please send inquiries to: isbinc2006@gmail.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 - OHIO

Ohio practice with excellent reputation and patient base seeks to hire a Podiatric Surgeon. The offices are state of the art including Digital X-Ray, EMR, Diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet Vascular Testing, CO- 2 Lasers all aspects of DME. The base salary is $120,000 with a bonus structure and benefits also would like to have this individual buy into the practice eventually. Please send CV to: Ohiopodiatrist@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS– MARYLAND

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO

Well-established practice seeking associate with opportunity for buy-in. Must have a minimum of 2 years surgical residency, or have 10 years practice experience with rear foot surgical skills. Great opportunity for growth with in-house surgical center, 2 hospitals within walking distance & more. Puerto Rican License required. Send CV/Resume to: admin1@podiatrycenterpr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Podiatrist licensed in FL to work in practice in central Florida with buy-in option. Practice in building built for podiatry. Excellent opportunity for new or experienced podiatrist to work, purchase practice, lease, or purchase building in great area to live and grow. CV to:  footsailor@earthlink.net

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.ne

tWANTED TO PURCHASE- PINPOINTE LASER

Seeking to purchase Pinpointe used laser. Willing to pay top dollar. Please contact us at:  sbalandrano@zapnails.com or (1) 713-541-3764.  Product Information: Product: PinPointe (Patholase) Company: Cynosure / PinPointe Type: Nd:YAG Options: Podiatry/Toenail

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