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PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily
July 07, 2012 #4,508 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2012- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 1 |
NY Podiatrist Provides Tips for Dry Skin on Feet
Save regular lotions for dry arms and legs -- most are not moisturizing enough for the tough skin on your feet, says NYC podiatrist Dr. Johanna S. Youner. Instead, slather on a thick cream with hydrating shea butter.
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Dr. Joanna Youner |
If you've got parched, cracked heels, you'll need an ointment containing acids (like salicylic or lactic) to break down dead cells, says Dr. Youner, who likes those from Kerasal.
Source: MSN Living [7/6/12]
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 2 |
NY Podiatrist Offers Shoe-Buying Advice
“I'm never surprised when patients tell me that they wear fashionable shoes that are uncomfortable,” says Dr. Paul Atlas, a podiatrist at Hudson Valley Ambulatory Surgery. “They’re not alone. According to a 2010 survey conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association, over half of women experience foot pain, and two-thirds wish they felt more comfortable in shoes.”
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Dr. Paul Atlas |
“The obvious solution – wear low heels – is not very popular with our patients,” notes Dr. Atlas. “So my number one suggestion is to shop for shoes that are comfortable for your feet and to choose styles that don’t rub against or put pressure on your problem spots. If you can, also fit a cushioned insole under the ball of your foot to offer extra padding.”
Source: News Times.com [7/6/12]
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ACE USA and RPS Healthcare Expand Podiatrist Professional Liability Coverage
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid guidelines and rules resulted in a record number of investigations and enforcement actions in 2011. ACE Medical Risk, a division of ACE USA, has responded through an endorsement that increases limits on Medicare/Medicaid legal expense reimbursements, raising coverage limits from $30,000 to $50,000 per action, with an annual aggregate of $50,000. This product is underwritten by companies within the ACE Group, an A.M. Best “A+” rated carrier, and is offered to podiatrists exclusively by RPS Healthcare, National Program Administrator of the Podiatry PLUS programs and one of the largest wholesalers and the largest Managing General Agent in the country. For more information Call 800-397-9697 ext 2648.
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HEALTHCARE NEWS |
Insurers Are Paying Claims Faster, But Are Denying More
Health insurers are paying claims more quickly and accurately than they did a year ago, according to the American Medical Association’s annual Health Insurer Report Card. But insurers also are increasingly requiring prior authorization and are denying more claims than they did a year ago, according to the report, which was released June 18.
All eight of the large health plan operators profiled in the report improved their first electronic remittance advice (ERA) accuracy over the past year, according to the AMA. The change could be tied to the Jan. 1, 2012 deadline to comply with updated HIPAA 5010 electronic transaction standards. Between 2011 and 2012, Anthem/WellPoint, Inc.’s accuracy percentage climbed from 61.05% to 88.59%.
Source: Steve Davis, Health Plan Week [6/25/12]
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MEDICAL ECONOMICS |
Healthcare Job Growth Slows in June
Healthcare added just 13,000 jobs in June, which was half of its average monthly growth rate in the past year but still comprised 16% of all new jobs in the national economy last month. Physician offices posted an overall loss of jobs, while hospitals showed a small gain.
Healthcare employment overall had one of its slowest months in a year, growing by 0.1% in June, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Monthly growth has been averaging 0.2% since June 2011. Physician offices lost 3,400 jobs in June. For the past year, the physician-office sector has been adding nearly 0.3% per month, but June saw a 0.1% loss.
Source: Joe Carlson, Modern Healthcare [7/6/12]
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PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY |
What Do Signs Say About Your Office?
Take a fresh look at the signs around your office and ask yourself whether their tone reflects the attitude you want to convey to employees and customers. Are they friendly and polite or sarcastic and commanding? Martin’s Point Health Care in Portland, Maine, reinforces its vision statement, “People Caring for People,” with signs like these:
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“Regrettably, I am not interruptible at this time.” Doesn’t that sound nicer than “Do Not Disturb”?
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“If this pile is disappearing, please restock enough paper for 100 copies.” That gives specific direction instead of just complaining “Don’t take the last copy.”
Source: Adapted from “Workplace Graffiti Can Be Detrimental to Your Culture,” Barbara T. Armstrong, Forbes, via Communication Briefings
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CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Dermagraft Denial
We have submitted claims to Connecticare for Dermagraft, both the application and the graft itself. Connecticare is paying for it as a DME item. We have tried explaining to them that this product is a graft, not a DME product. All to no avail. They advised us to appeal. We got all the information from Dermagraft to send in as an appeal. Any other suggestions from readers would be helpful.
Richard Feldman, DPM, West Haven, CT
Response: Technically, any hard item that you can put your fingers on is a DME item, so from that perspective Connecticare may be technically correct. However, the issue here is which contractor is to pay for it. In traditional fee-for-service Medicare, there are many exemptions to the DME MAC paying for a DME item. Examples of DME which come under the jurisdiction of the local MAC include, but are not limited to pharmaceuticals, joint implants, and skin substitutes.
Proof of this fact rests within both your local MAC's (NGS) LCD on skin substitutes, and within the NHIC (your local DME MAC) policy (chapter 12 of the supplier manual and Chapter 20 of the CMS Medicare Claims Processing Manual). ABH's customer service department should be able to provide you with these exact documents to forward to Connecticare. You might also attempt to speak with Connecticare's podiatric advisor and get CPMA involved in these discussions.
Paul Kesselman, DPM, Woodside, NY
Editor's note: Dr. Kesselman is a featured speaker (and available for your questions) at the Codingline-PM News Coding & Practice Management Workshop, August 20-22 (following the APMA Annual Meeting) at the Greenbrier -www.podiatrym.com/greenbrier.cfm
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) |
RE: Newton Running Shoes and Forefoot Pain (Pete Smith, DPM)
From: Brian W. Fullem, DPM
The Newton shoes have "lugs" in the forefoot to encourage a more midfoot strike. I run in them myself, and I love them, but they definitely can cause more pressure on the forefoot and lead to metatarsalgia. I recommend a Nike Free or one of the other minimalist type shoes. It will have a softer heel counter for the Haglund's deformity, and the lower heel height encourages less heel strike.
Brian W. Fullem, DPM, Tampa, FL, bfullem1@aol.com
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (EMR) |
RE: Amazing Charts (Gary A. Lieber, DPM)
From: Jordan Sheff, DPM
I've been using Amazing Charts EHR for about 3 years now. Initially, I was very happy, given the low, low cost of their system, but after three years, I've begun looking for other EHRs. Their "Guardian Angel" support is never available when you need them, and you have to leave a message and hope that they call you back soon - something very irritating when you have a major problem.
Another aspect that I do not like is the fact that their online backup, which I pay extra for, does not back up any of the imported data, i.e., x-rays, lab results, consult reports, etc. On the other hand, thanks to Amazing Charts, I did get the stimulus money everyone talks about, so I guess we take the good with the bad; nothing's perfect, right?
Jordan Sheff, DPM, Newport, RI, jsheff@newportfootcare.com
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 |
RE: Facebook Scam
From: Arthur Gudeon, DPM
Read the message below concerning a scam Facebook message from a purported NYCPM student, who ends up asking for money. Upon checking with Lisa Lee at NYCPM, she was found to never have been a student. Unfortunately, I see on FB that many DPMs HAVE already friended her, and are unaware of the situation. I tried to have FB warn them, but it doesn't seem to be working.
"Hello dear Arthur. I think we have things in common. I did not continue my podiatry education because I have to travel back to Ghana Africa as I lost my parents and did not have anyone to take care of my school fees. Hope to hear from you soonest as I have something important i will like to discuss with you." - Kathrine Rafael
Arthur Gudeon, DPM, Rego Park, NY, afootdoc@hotmail.com
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 |
RE: Unrestricted Medical Licenses
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH
I am amazed about some DPM responses regarding my applause of the expansion of the practice act in New York State. One podiatric physician refers to “the lowly DPM” compared to the MD and DO. The scope granted to DPMs in all states certainly is not “lowly.” One DPM states that the “poor foot doctor” is limited forever without hope of increasing his training, having to “sue his way up the leg.” He refers to having to “sue” to expand our role to have responsibility for involvement in disorders of foot function due to disorders of the brain.
Indeed we have always had the right to diagnose, which encompasses detecting why foot function is impaired. That includes determining if a problem is local or even due to motor disorders that may have their etiology in the brain. Why else do podiatric medical students, well before entering residency, learn how to perform a...
Editor's note: Dr. Levy's extended-length letter can be read here.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
![Podiatry Institute](http://images3.podiatrym.com/pmphotos2011/PHH.jpg)
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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)
![](http://images3.podiatrym.com/pmphotos2011/PMNews7030.jpg) |
World Class Golf at the Greenbrier |
Coming to Washington D.C. for the National? 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.
RESERVE YOUR UPGRADED ROOM NOW
Click Here for information or to Register
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CLASSIFIED ADS |
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 - SEATTLE, WA AREA
Established podiatric clinic looking for an associate to join our team, 5 offices located around the greater Seattle, WA area. Great base salary, benefits and friendly work environment. Please send resume to: seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION-WEST COAST, FLORIDA
Outstanding opportunity for PSR-36 graduate to join successful group podiatry practice. Seeking a sociable, articulate graduate who is confident in rearfoot and ankle reconstructive cases but also enjoys all phases of podiatry. Long-term opportunity for the right candidate with generous pay and benefits. Reply to jwicks@cortezfootandankle.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LOUISVILLE, KY
Immediate position for established practice in excellent location with option to buy. All phases of podiatry with good mix of patients. Two local residency programs with foot and ankle and trauma privileges. Office has EMR qualifying for meaningful use in the first year. PADnet vascular testing. Send resume to samuel10530@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA
Associate position leading to partnership. Busy two doctor, two office practice. Good balance of surgical and general podiatry, diabetic foot and wound care, limb salvage. Looking for the right person to transition into vacancy that will be left by retiring physician. Well-established practice with large referral base. Privileges at two hospitals and surgery center. About an hour to each coast and close to attractions. Interested persons please forward CV and summary of surgical log to toesrus7@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WISCONSIN
Growing, innovative practice with multiple locations in South Eastern Wisconsin seeks an outgoing, team-focused podiatrist. Must be board certified/eligible, compassionate, professional, and flexible. Competitive salary and benefits, busy independent practice with large amount of new patients. Please send CV & letter of introduction to: Milwaukee.podiatrist@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/BAY AREA
We’re looking for someone entrepreneurial who can help grow our practice. Must have great people skills, clinical/surgical skills, and positive demeanor. California license required. Send your CV and cover letter to cvpodiatrist@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MANHATTAN
Podiatrist needed for busy state-of-the-art offices in Manhattan. Offices are located near Penn and Grand Central Station. 10+ years experience only and an out-of-network doctor for most insurances. Please forward your information and CV to: roni@myfcny.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - QUEENS AND NYC
Part -time position PSR 24 min. Must have friendly, confident personality with great communication skills and training to back it up! All phases of podiatry. Hosp, office, and surgery center priv's. Experience helpful, but willing to train the right person. This position has definite full-time, partnership a/o buy-out potential. It is a meritocracy! You will keep 25-35% of your net revenues. No base salary or benefits until you are a proven entity. You build it, you will keep it! If this sounds like something you really want, please email hansfeet2@gmail.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 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 tofootsailor@earthlink.net
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 - 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
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.net
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED PODIATRIC LASERS
Great price, great outcome. Stop wasting money on expense lasers. Personally owned and used few hours in my office,. 10 and 30 watts lasers. Two handpieces in one. First one for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, pain, inflammation. 2nd handpiece for surgical ablation and fungus toenail conditions. Portable fast and very cost-effective. footcare@comcast.net
WANTED 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
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 13,500 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 13,500 DPM's. Write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 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.
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Disclaimers |
Acceptance and publication by this newsletter of an advertisement, news story, or letter does not imply endorsement or approval by Barry Block or Kane Communications of the company, product, content or ideas expressed in this newsletter. Podiatric Medical News does not represent the views, and is a separate entity from Podiatry Management Magazine and Podiatry Management Online. Any information pertaining to legal matters should not be considered to be legal advice, which can only be obtained via individual consultation with an attorney. Information about Medicare billing should be confirmed with your State CAC.
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR
ENTITY TO WHICH IT IS ADDRESSED AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS
PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE.
If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an
employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the
intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination,
distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly
prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please
immediately notify me and you are hereby instructed to delete all
electronic copies and destroy all printed copies.
DISCLAIMER: Internet communications cannot be guaranteed to be
either timely or free of viruses.
| Guidelines |
- 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.
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