The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

July 10, 2013 #4,818 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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FL Podiatrist Discusses Heel Pain Syndrome

"Heel pain syndrome is what we call it because it can be a collection of symptoms, one of them being pain when you first get up in the morning. Usually that is a condition called plantar fasciitis, but it can be associated with other things such as a heel spur or a tight Achilles tendon," says Dr. Andrew Belis, a board certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon on Lee Memorial Health System's medical staff. "That contributes to it. Repetitive, over irritation of the ligament. Sometimes, people have a weight gain and they notice this start up," says Dr. Belis.

Dr. Andrew Belis

"Frequently, what I recommend is to do a lot of stretching exercises for their Achilles tendon, or their plantar fascia, to loosen that up a little bit so when they do start to walk on it, it's not so tight. Secondly, you can ice it down, that helps too," says Dr. Belis.

Source:  Amy Oshier, WNBC-TV [7/1/13]

MT Podiatrist Organizes "Race Against Time" for Charity

Dr. Daniel Hodson wanted to do something “totally different” when he set out to organize his own road race. The Great Falls Clinic podiatrist and avid runner decided to go with a timed run, aptly called a “Race Against Time.” “All fitness levels can do this,” Hodson said. While beginners might be intimidated by a half marathon, for example, they shouldn’t be by the Race against Time. In this race, runners will have 60 minutes to run as far as they can. For every half mile they complete, they receive a ticket. Then the tickets are put in for various drawings, including one for a 65-inch TV.

Dr. Daniel Hodson

A portion of the race’s proceeds will be donated to the American Diabetes Association, Hodson said. For good measure, a diabetic conference with two speakers is scheduled during packet pickup July 26. There, participants can learn about diabetic foot care and diabetic nutrition.

Source: Briana Wipf, Great Falls Tribune [7/8/13]

High Heels Can Cause Back Pain: NY Podiatrist

Eric G. Walter, DPM, professor of orthopedic surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and director of podiatric medicine and the surgery center at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, says heels cause the calf muscles and hamstrings to shorten. “That can result in tightening of the back muscles. And the longer muscles are tight, the more abnormal pull there is on joints. This can lead to muscle spasms and either low or mid-back pain.”

Dr. Eric Walter

Heels can also shorten the muscle groups in the upper leg, causing hip muscles to overwork and torque the hip joint. “This can cause abnormal pressure to the sacroiliac joint and low back pain,” Dr. Walter adds. He recommends wearing heels that are 2 inches or lower. “Stretching the calves and hamstrings will decrease the effect of the heels on shortening muscles,” he adds.

Source: MSN Healthy Living [7/9/13]

AZ Podiatrist on Faculty of International Diabetic Summer School

The first Diabetic Foot International Summer School of Surgery was held from July 1 through July 5th at the IRCCS Multimedica Hospital in Milan, Italy. Course Directors Giacomo Clerici, MD and Robert Frykberg, DPM, MPH  were joined by Christopher Attinger, MD  on the Faculty to present live surgical cases on diabetic foot patients to address a variety of common conditions. Andrea Russo, MD, a vascular surgeon from Naples, Italy also attended the course.

(L-R) Drs. Christopher Attinger , Andrea Russo, Giacomo Clerici, and Robert Frykberg

Aside from afternoon lectures, live patient demonstrations were conducted for percutaneous distal angioplasty procedures, Charcot foot reconstruction, ankle arthrodesis, forefoot amputations, drainage of infections, below-knee amputation, and plastic surgical reconstruction. Eight physicians from Italy, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Israel participated in the week-long course. This surgical course, offering operating room experiences for attendees, will be offered twice annually in the future to all interested physicians on a very limited basis.

CMS Mulls Payment Policy Changes on Chronic Care, Telehealth

In an important first, the CMS is considering paying primary-care physicians for complex chronic care management services of Medicare patients without an in-person patient visit. The change would start in 2015. It's just one of several policy changes included in the CMS-proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2014.

Other proposed changes include adjustments to some 200 “misvalued” fee-schedule codes and expanded payment for telehealth services—particularly for identified rural “health professional shortage areas.” Payment for services rendered in non-face-to-face visits has long been advocated by physician groups. Under the CMS proposal, payments would be made for development and revision of care plans, and could include monitoring of patients' medical and functional needs.

Source: Andis Robeznieks, Modern Physician [7/9/13]

Proposed Payment Schedule Includes Harmonization of Reporting Measures

Healthcare providers have long decried the cacophony of reporting requirements under various CMS programs and have asked for harmonization of the rules. Now, the 652-page proposed rule encompassing changes to the Medicare Physician Payment Schedule, released Monday, may have providers who report clinical quality measures more often singing from the same hymnal in 2014.

For calendar year 2014, physicians and other “eligible professionals” under the EHR incentive program will have the option to use qualified clinical data registries, as defined by the Physician Quality Reporting System, to meet their meaningful-use incentive payment requirements for clinical quality reporting in 2014, according to a CMS summary of the rule changes. To qualify for EHR incentive payments, however, providers still have to use a federally certified EHR and report to the registry those quality measures required by that program.

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [7/9/13]

Query: Reliable Medical Billing Company

For the past 5 years, we've had an in-house biller who was great in sending out claims, but really lacked the experience to collect money, appeal rejections, and deal with patients' balances. We are looking to contract with a medical company. If there's any company that you have been very happy with, please kindly recommend.

Office Manager, Podiatry Practice in NYC

Query: Great Toe - Code 28285?

What is the correct code for arthroplasty of the 1st digit? It was not a Keller-type bunionectomy or base procedure. Do we use 28285, if it was performed due to a comminuted fracture?

John Taylor, DPM, Flint, MI

Response: It appears from your post that the clinical presentation was a comminuted fracture of a hallux phalanx. Your treatment was an arthroplasty which doesn't really describe the specific surgery performed. While you mentioned it was not a base procedure, you did not describe: a hammertoe or contracture of the hallux being corrected; whether the fracture was intra-articular or involved the phalangeal shaft; or - if all you did was remove portions of the fractured bone, not really treating the fracture to allow it to heal.

From your post, I assume you are removing portions of the fracture (e.g., the head of the proximal phalanx), and would recommend - unless we hear otherwise from you - CPT 28124 - exostectomy, phalanx.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

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RE: Surgical Intervention in a 12 Year Old with Flat Foot
From: Robert D. Phillips, DPM

This is a good example of why a biomechanical examination is so important in trying to make surgical decisions.

Some of the important information needed includes:
1. The angular range of motion of the subtalar joint on the frontal plane.

2. The heel to leg angular relationship when the subtalar joint is in neutral position.

3. The linear relationship, how many...

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

RE: TRAKnet Service Agreement
From: Joseph Cortez, DPM

For those of us who do not feel comfortable giving your credit card information and having it on file, TRAKnet does offer a pay by check option. Payments must be either for 6 months or one year. In order to pay by check, you would need to fax over a signed copy of the service agreement along with the check. I assume mailing the check with the service agreement would be appropriate.

Also ,I am trying to negotiate a lesser fee for updates and to connect to their servers, with a fee charged for technical support when you need it. I do not see why anyone would pay for technical support that they may or may not use every month, unless you like throwing your hard-earned money away.  

Joseph Cortez, DPM, Simi Valley, CA,  jmcdoc@roadrunner.com

RE: Unmatched Residency Placements Currently Stand at 86
From: Michael Forman, DPM

I have been sadly reading about the lost 86. Not one post on this forum thought that this was acceptable. Yes, it does help to point the finger so that this does not happen again. 

I want to know what APMA and CPME are doing for our unfortunate young colleagues. 

Michael Forman, DPM, Cleveland, OH, im4man@aol.com

LOCUM TENENS OR ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - VIRGINIA

Perhaps leading to long-term relationship, or locum tenens for about 90 days. Starting date is as soon as residency trained, Virginia licensed podiatrist. New equipment- x-ray machine, digital processor, EMR, and treatment chairs. Must be a self-starter, confident & hard working. Computer literate. If interested, please call 703-582-5999 (C) , 703-237-0841 (H), or e-mail drmichaelfine@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND

Seeking highly motivated, ethical, enthusiastic associate to join successful, well-established practice located in close proximity to Maryland and Delaware beaches. Certified/qualified by ABPS with rear foot experience preferred. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care, sports medicine and general podiatry. Fully equipped office with diagnostic ultrasound, fluoroscopy, vascular testing, radio frequency ablation, six treatment rooms and three satellite offices. Main office has accredited ambulatory surgery center. This opportunity has excellent salary potential with benefits for the right individual.  Will consider preceptor. Send CV to dpmkthomas@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – MARYLAND (FULL-TIME/PART-TIME)

Are you motivated, personable and enjoy working with the elderly? We are offering part-time positions in Maryland. Podiatry Management Services provides care in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, Senior Homes, Adult Daycare and other similar facilities. Please e-mail your CV to: drhprosen@verizon.net or fax to 410-486-2049 or call Dr. Herbert Rosen at 410-580-0255.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SF BAY AREA

East SF Bay Area associate wanted for 3-office practice. CA License and PSR-24 minimum. All aspects of podiatry. Need to be highly motivated, a self-starter and be able to start Aug. 1, 2013. Salary BOE. Send CV to drscivally@sbcglobal.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
 
Very busy, two location group practice seeking a full-time, self motivated and hard working podiatry associate. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please email CV to: footcare4all@aol.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 IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Full-time, motivated, outgoing associate wanted for immediate job opening. We are a multi-office, multi-doctor practice based in Orange County and we’re looking for a 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 - MARYLAND, DC, PA

A podiatrist is needed for the Baltimore, Washington, Pennsylvania area. Partner for the corporation. Surgery center, emergency room call and a hospital location. All areas of podiatry. Established practice. Salary and commission. Fax resume 410-857-4227 or email at butler@qis.net

ASSOCIATE WANTED - NEW YORK

Well-trained experienced surgical podiatrist for busy Bronx and White Plaines offices. Associate working for partnership, if desired. Send Resume to bronxpodiatry@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BAKERSFIELD, CA
 
Office and hospital-based podiatry group seeking a highly trained surgical associate to complement 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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, Midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 12/24 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – PLAINFIELD, IL

Associate wanted for established practice in the suburbs of Chicago, self motivated and patient oriented a must. We will provide you with a state of the art facility, experienced support staff, $100,000+ salary, 401K with match, bonus and flexible hours. Please forward cover letter and CV to chrisbaileydpm@sbcglobal.netor fax to 815-230-4925.

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA

Associate wanted for multi-office, multi-doctor practice. Full Time, Self-motivated, highly skilled team player with surgical, wound care and palliative skills. Offices in Northern California Coast, CA License necessary, salary negotiable with possibility of partnership in future. Send CV and letter to: srfctysc@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE WANTED - WESTERN NEW YORK
 
Wanted well trained podiatrist for IMMEDIATE position. Busy high volume surgical practice with multiple locations, EMR, Digital X-Rays, hospital and surgical center privileges. Good base salary with incentive, and benefits including health insurance. EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY to grow. Send resume to: WNYDPM@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA
 
Established private practice,  immediate opening, general podiatric care, foot and ankle reconstruction and trauma management, strong referral base, ED trauma call. Hospital and surgery center privileges. Two locations with modern offices. ABPS qualified or certified. Competitive compensation package. Potential for position to lead to partnership. To apply, please email a letter of intent and CV to: vaposition@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO
 
Podiatrists, are you entrepreneurial, compassionate, self-starter, with excellent communication skills? Do you enjoy dealing with the elderly? We are not looking for just any podiatrist; we are looking for the right Podiatrist. Are you driven, disciplined and have a burning desire to serve? If so, call us. We are SeniorCare, Inc. We are expanding to Ohio and looking for the right Doctor. Base salary + bonuses. Call today if this describes you. Call Becky at 314-821-2600.

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - NY
 
Generate Income in NY. Licensed NY podiatrists sought for a unique podiatric project in all geographic areas of New York. Medicare license required. You literally keep all visit charges generated or a pre-determined hourly salary, depending on the patient setting. If you are seeking an additional 4 or more hours per week of work, with no limit, contact us at: ediamond7@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND
 
Associate position for podiatry office on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Certified ambulatory surgery center on-site.  Will consider preceptor. Please fax letter and CV to 410-749-6807.
 
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA BAY

Live, play and practice in the Tampa Bay area. Associate leading to partnership in a well-established, expanding group practice. Excellent salary and benefits in this dynamic medical/surgical practice. Come join our caring, compassionate, motivated staff. Position open immediately but we will also consider 2014 residency graduates. PSR-36 or PSR-24 with rearfoot/ankle training required. E-mail cover letter, CV, surgical log and references to rvalins18@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CONNECTICUT
 
Looking for an associate with 3-year residency training for a practice in Connecticut. Interested in all aspects of podiatry including  foot/ankle surgery and wound care. Hospital located close by with appointment to staff readily available. Will lead to partnership Please send CV to: dsharnoff@hotmail.com

BUSINESS FOR SALE: TOE-FOOD CHOCOLATES & CANDY

Toe-Food Chocolates & Candy (www.toefood.com) is an established candy company specializing in creative foot-themed chocolates that has supported the podiatric community for over 30 years. Ideal opportunity for family member to run in house. Serious inquiries only please. Email: MwolpaFootDoc@yahoo.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.

DIABETIC FOOT RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP OPENING - DENVER, CO

The Denver VA Medical Center has an immediate opening in its CPME approved Podiatric Wound Care and Diabetic Foot Research Fellowship. Advanced training in research, wound care and diabetic foot disease. Prerequisite is a 3 year residency.  Details at www.vadenver.net. Phone inquiries Drs. Albert 303-669-4840 or Ballow 303-246-4654

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MISSION VIEJO, CA

Relocating to Tulsa. Great opportunity to buy my office. Located at Mission Hospital. Gross income 2012 was $548,000. Approximately 1300 sq ft with 3 treatment rooms, digital x-ray and fully computerized. Will consider all offers. Call David at 949-702-1052 or david@missionviejofootcare.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - Q-CLEAR NDYAG Q-SWITCHED LASER

Brand new Q-Clear NdYAG Q-switched laser, direct from factory, never used with full warranty. Complete system with training provided by James Holfinger, DPM, principal investigator for 2011 FDA study gaining clearance for onychomycosis. Call Dr. Holfinger at (216) 390-9757.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - DIOWAVE 15 WATT, PORTABLE 980 LASER
 
This is a used multiple function laser, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, joint pain. nerve pain, post surgical, warts, toenail  problems, two-year plus warranty, MSRP: $25,000. E mail Dr. Zuckerman at footcare@comcast.net. for questions and pricing.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14 ,000 DPMs 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 14,000 DPMs. 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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