The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

July 01, 2011 #4,195 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2011- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

Shoes are Not a Substitute for Exercise: TUSPM Professor

The buzzword in footwear these days is "barefoot." Shoes as minimal as ballet slippers - and shoes with fat two-inch soles - claim to be healthy for you because they're like going barefoot. While there are studies that support some of the purported benefits, there is also "a lot of hype," says Dr. Kendrick Whitney, a professor of podiatry and orthopedics at Temple University. 

Dr. Kendrick Whitney

"And you have people thinking, 'I'm just going to lace up these shoes and get the same workout as going to a gym,'" he said. "Shoes should never be used as a replacement for exercising."

Source: Marie McCullough, Philadephia Inquirer [6/29/11]

NYCPM International Podiatry Club Holds 3rd Annual Medical Mission to Mexico

The International Podiatry Club (IPC) at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine recently held its third annual medical mission trip to Mexico. In 2009, led by then-students Munjed Salem, DPM and Andrew Goodeill, DPM, the IPC established an annual podiatric mission to Mexico by joining forces with the “Welcome Home Outreach Ministries” organization, whose team from Centralia, WA, has been led by Pastor Elmer Goodeill, and has included an internist and an orthopedic surgeon.  For the past three years, the mission teams, consisting of third- and fourth-year podiatric students and DPMs from NYCPM, including Sharon Barlizo, DPM, Assistant Professor of Podiatric Medicine, as well as other health professionals, have traveled to Vicente, Guerrero, Mexico and surrounding areas to provide services for hundreds of patients who ordinarily could not afford podiatric treatment.

Members of the NYCPM International Podiatry Club on their recent Medical Mission Trip to Mexico.

IPC President Oendrila Kamal, Class of 2012, declared the experience "…amazing. We definitely worked hard, but in the end, I gained more than it would have been possible to give." Fellow mission team member Tanler Volkman, Class of 2012, added, "The IPC Mexico medical mission trip provides an opportunity to interact with a variety of clinical specialists, offering medical care to populations that have limited access and means. It is an unforgettable experience that allows personal and professional growth and reminds you why you chose the healthcare field."

FL Podiatrist “Knocks Their Socks Off” at the Improv Comedy Store

Last week, standing in front of the iconic brick wall, Dr. Bret Ribotsky, a podiatric surgeon from Boca Raton took the audience on a medical voyage that cracked up the house. "His stories about the business of medicine and taking care of patients were so funny that extra oxygen was needed," said Jimmy Shubert (from CBS’s “King of Queens.”) 

Dr. Bret Ribotsky performs at the Improv Comedy Store

“The Improv center stage has hosted comic genius like Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, Tim Allen, Jay Leno, Chris Rock, Dane Cook, Ellen DeGeneres, Jamie Foxx, Adam Sandler, Jeff Dunham, and Dave Chappelle,” said Ribotsky, but none of them were physicians, and “Sometimes patients give you the best material,” said Ribotsky.

NY Podiatrist Surrenders License for Healthcare Fraud

Douglas Bennet Herzlich, DPM; New York, NY   Application to surrender license granted. Summary: Licensee admitted to the charge of having been convicted of conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, mail fraud and to make false statements in connection with payment of healthcare; and healthcare fraud, both felonies.

Source: NY State Board of Regents, Cal. No. 25564

HHS Calls Off Fake-Patient Survey of Medical Practices

Reacting to accusations of both snooping and wasting money, the federal government announced today that it is suspending a proposed plan to have "mystery shoppers" seek appointments with physicians to determine how easy or hard it is to access primary care, especially for someone covered by Medicare or Medicaid.

While leaders of two medical societies representing internists and family physicians thought the study might supply more evidence to justify higher Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement, the American Medical Association (AMA) came out in opposition yesterday. Cecil Wilson, MD, the AMA's immediate past president, stated in a news release that the government should address the nation's physician shortage "rather than using mystery shoppers to tell us what we already know."

Source: Robert Lowes, Medscape News [6/28/11]

Query: Sublesional 4% Alcohol Injections

What is the protocol for injecting non-weight-bearing punctate keratotic lesions with 4% alcohol?

Austin Reeves, DPM, Texarkana, TX

Query: Source for Injectible Vitamin B-12

Apparently, the factory that bottles B-12 is shut down and my supplier, Schein, is totally out. Does anyone know of any sources, as Schein says that production will restart in July-August?

Dennis Shavelson, DPM, NY, NY

RE: Failed Keller (Judd Davis, DPM)
From: Robert P. Thiele, DPM, Tip Sullivan, DPM

I would evaluate for an iatrogenic FHL tendon rupture (muscle testing and MRI eval). If this was cut/ruptured, then fuse the 1st MTPJ. If the FHL is not ruptured, you may be able to lengthen the EHL, release the scar contracture at the 1st MTPJ joint, and pin the toe in plantar flexion for several weeks.  However, a 1st MTPJ fusion would give you the most predictable result with this severe contracture. That being said, age, ability to be NWB, and tolerate the post-op course involved with a fusion must be carefully considered when choosing the treatment plan. I suppose if the flexor tendon is ruptured and she is just not a good candidate for a fusion (for reasons above), then I would do a percutaneous EHL tenotomy and splint the toe or pin the toe with no guarantees or promises.  

Robert P. Thiele, DPM, Denville, NJ,  drthiele@comcast.net

I am assuming that the patient is an active person and a reasonable surgical candidate. I am also assuming that the pain sub first is the result of the retrograde force exerted by the contracted hallux. I think that the most simple procedure with the lowest morbidity is where I would start looking. If the EHL and FHL were functional and the deformity reducible, I would consider doing a tendon balancing procedure along with using a spacer at the old joint space. You might consider a joint implant or, as I prefer in these cases, use some of the patient's own tissue to interpose. I have even used a Wright medical thick GraftJacket successfully in similar cases. I also use a 0.062 K-wire to hold the correction for at least 3-4 weeks. In general, I would stay away from procedures that require bone-to-bone healing, if possible.
 
Tip Sullivan, DPM, Jackson, MS, tsdefeet@msfootcenter.net

RE: Substitute for Colchicine (Bill March, DPM)
From: Brian Kiel, DPM

It is really unnecessary to order colchicine from Canada. Although I am thoroughly disgusted with the situation regarding this drug, the company that produces Colcrys will supply you with plenty of discount cards for your patients so that their maximum outlay is $15. Also, they will give you cards for your patients to get seven free tablets. I feel more comfortable doing this because, as we all know, at the first sign of a complication, even those common to colchicine, an attorney will claim you used illegal foreign drugs , etc.

Brian Kiel, DPM, Memphis, TN, Footdok4@gmail.com

RE: The Passing of Howard Marshall, DPM
From: Gregory K, Eirich, DPM

Podiatric medicine has truly lost one of the best in the field. Dr. Marshall left his mark in his teaching of his students during 4th year rotations in medical school. Any DPM who had the opportunity to be under  'Marshall Law' at L.A. County/USC Medical Center will always have fond memories, but also immense gratitude for the education that he provided. A physician, a mentor, a teacher, and a friend - he will be missed.

Gregory K, Eirich, DPM, Tustin, CA

RE: A Real Pain in the Neck

I doubt this has ever happened before. I was cutting a toenail and it hit me in the neck and penentrated the skin. 

Toenail Impaled in Neck

We've all been hit before by a high speed nail but I've never been impaled (this one really stung).
 
Cal Britton, DPM, North Little Rock, AR

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE- DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND UNIT

Biosound Esaote, 12” monitor, printer, portable stand, carrying case, especially useful for podiatric musculoskeletal. Excellent condition, one owner. (only used for 2 years) See photos on request. Can be shipped. Contact Dr. Jim Cancilleri at 609-364-4862 (South Jersey) or via email atDrCancilleri@aol.com, Great buy at $3595.

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 emailcontactus@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 - NANAIMO, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Have you ever dreamed of owning a practice where... you can see 0-50 patients daily .. .average 100 new patients monthly have zero accounts receivable ... gross $480 M per year .... live in a beautiful community with skiing, hiking, fishing and boating on your doorstep. This could be yours! If interested contact pistone@telus.net or 250-754-4192.

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

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 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 - 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 – 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 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

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.

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 12,500 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 12,500 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $109 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.

• To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
• Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
• Notes must be in the following form:
  RE: (Topic)
  From: (your name, DPM)
  Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
  Your name, DPM City/State
• Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.