The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

July 11, 2013 #4,819 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Summer is Problematic Season for Feet: CA Podiatrist

During the summer months, when people are walking or working barefoot or in flip-flops, the Foothill Podiatry Clinic tends to see more injuries made by “foreign bodies” in feet, along with various contusions and fractured toes. Toenail fungus is also a common complaint in summer months, because people want to wear open-toed footwear, Dr. Steven Latter noted. People also tend to be more active in summer, hiking, running, riding, or participating in various sports.

Dr. Steven Latter (Photo: John Hart)

Dr. Latter suggests that we can protect our feet with better footwear. “I’m not against flip-flops,” he said. “I just encourage people to find them with an arch support appropriate to their needs.” Unfortunately, feet come in many varieties ranging from flat to high-arched. The higher the arch, the more support is needed.

Source: Gary Cooke, The Union [7/9/13]

TN Podiatrist Wins Judges Choice Award in Charity Dancing WTS Event

Local celebrity dancers put their talents on the line to set a new standard for fundraising in Chattanooga. The Partnership for Families, Children and Adults said that the sixth year of Dancing with the Chattanooga Stars presented by News Channel 9, Brewer Media, and Blush Magazine garnered over $170,000 to benefit agency programs. 

Dr. Ira Kraus

Over 900 people attended the event to see local celebrities strut their stuff and raise money for Partnership programs. Dr. Ira Kraus of Advanced Foot Care won the Judges Choice Award. He danced for Family Connections Supervised Visitation Program.

Jury Convicts MI Podiatrist of Healthcare Fraud

A podiatrist, a psychologist, and a pharmacist were convicted today in federal court in Detroit, Michigan, for healthcare fraud and controlled substance distribution, United States Attorney Barbara L McQuade announced today. Convicted were podiatrist Anmy Tran, 42, of Clinton Township, psychologist Sanyani Edwards, 34, of Southfield, and pharmacist Mitesh Patel, 39, of Troy. Defendants Tran and Edwards were convicted on all three of the counts with which they were charged, specifically, conspiracies to commit healthcare fraud, to distribute controlled substances, and to pay or receive healthcare kickbacks.

Source: FBI via 7thspace.com [7/10/13]

Query: Interpositional Arthroplasty
 
I have always successfully used native capsule, either as a flap or by purse-string technique to interpose soft tissue between the base of the proximal phalanx and the head of the 1st metatarsal when doing a Keller-type procedure. In the rare instance where I did not feel there was adequate coverage, I have sacrificed the EHB tendon to reinforce the capsular flap.
 
I am interested in what other types of material my colleagues have used successfully for 1st MTP joint interpositional arthroplasty when the capsule is inadequate for coverage.
 
Greg Caringi, DPM, Lansdale, PA

Query: Billing Software for Nursing Home Patients

We are in the process of setting up a new podiatry S Corp that will only see patients in a nursing home setting. We are looking for a recommendation for billing software as we want to keep our billing in-house. We will not need a complete EHR system as there will be no in-office patients.
 
NJ Podiatrist

Query: How to Address Ourselves?

What is the correct way to address ourselves? Are we podiatrists, or foot and ankle surgeons? I am board certified in foot and ankle, but licensed by New York as a podiatrist; therefore, I am a podiatrist. Am I wrong?

Paul J Maglione, DPM, Ossining, NY

Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. Although, the recently passed law in New York will expand the scope of practice (for some) to the ankle, the license designation is "podiatrist." This is also the term that most patients are familar with. Since the practice laws vary by state, it's always best to check with your state board as to what you can legally call yourself.  

RE: Great Toe - Code 28285?
From: Jeff Kittay, DPM

I claim no expertise in coding, but it seems to me that Dr. Taylor's use of the term arthroplasty would be exactly correct for the IPJ repair he effected. The definition of arthroplasty, from arthro - joint, or to join, and -plasty - form, or plastic surgery involving a specified part, is used regularly in virtually any scenario that involves opening or repairing any joint.  

To my limited knowledge, it is only in the podiatric literature that the term arthroplasty has come to mean repair of a contracted digit by phalangeal head resection and/or fusion. Assuming that Dr. Taylor properly did not define the digit as contracted, arthroplasty should be a perfectly acceptable description. Orthopods use the term for virtually any invasive joint procedure: hips, knees, elbows, etc., so if we are seeking "parity", let us all use the same language.
 
Jeff Kittay, DPM, Boston, MA, twindragons2@verizon.net

RE: Reliable Medical Billing Company
From: Joseph Smith, DPM, Michael Forman, DPM

My billing company rules - 1st Choice Medical Billing Terry Raynor-Fritz (757 560-0202) . She has been doing podiatry for over a decade and has been teaching medical billing at Tidewater Community College for over 20 years. She handles all types of practices and handles many out-of-town clients. 

Joseph Smith, DPM, VA Beach, VA, jsmith531@cox.net

I am using Doctors Central Billing in Ohio. They are easily the best billing service I have had. At this time, they are also in Indiana, Kentucky, and Florida. Write to PaulF@drsbillinginc.com

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

RE: Reliable Medical Billing Company
From: David Mullens, DPM

I have used Caroline Kats in San Francisco for all of our billing for 5+ years. She is nothing less than sensational. When I told my wife/office manager I wanted to hire Caroline for our four-doctor practice, my wife was really against hiring an outside biller. Within three months, my wife thought Caroline was the best thing ever to happen to the practice. 

Caroline is smart, hard-working, knowledgeable, and experienced. We scanned and emailed all of our routing slips (superbills) and checks (with attached EOBs) every day. It was painless and completely effective. In addition, Caroline was expert at handling patients calling with payment issues. Her email address is carolinekats@yahoo.com. Call her. You won’t be sorry.
 
David Mullens, DPM, Palo Alto, CA, dmullens@mullenslawoffice.com

RE: Unmatched Residency Placements Currently Stand at 86 (H. David Gottlieb, DPM)
From: William E. Chagares, DPM

Having read the comments from anonymous and Dr. Gottlieb, I wish to weigh in as well regarding the efforts and effect of CPME. I have interacted with CPME staff in various capacities for over 15 years on both sides of the fence. I have experienced the CPME process as an evaluator of residency programs and by having my residency program evaluated. One thing is certain regarding CPME, they are doing their level best to act in the capacity in which they are charged.

It is also clear to me that CPME is MOST concerned that each resident receives the training and education in their designated program to which they are entitled. Their efforts to address the residency shortage via additional slots for existing programs (pending proper documentation) and the formation of new residency programs (Dr. Ed Wolf as facilitator) reflect CPME’s concern for all potential podiatry residents.  

I agree with Dr. Gottleib’s statement that CPME staff are “too few people doing too much work.” Given the plethora of documentation required, the ongoing necessary communication and the now expanding realm of residency programs, the proper authoritative body needs to recognize the overdue need to augment CPME staff.
 
William E. Chagares, DPM, North Chicago, IL, William.Chagares@va.gov

RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day

Here's a new post-op shoe to keep people from stepping on your foot after surgery.

Step on me at your own risk!

Source: Submitted by Dr. Burton J. Katzen

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.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

Excellent opportunity for a full time podiatrist to join busy group practice! Surgery, wound care, sports medicine. Affiliated with residency program. Personable and great communication skills a must! Competitive salary, bonus, benefits package. Send CV to footdoc22@gmail.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA - ASSOCIATE POSITION

Busy two doctor practice seeking the help of an ambitious associate to help handle the patient load. Position will lead to partnership for the right individual. Two office practice with hospital, surgery center and wound care center privileges. Good mix of surgery, wound care and general podiatry. Great salary with incentives, benefits, malpractice. Must have FL license. Suburban setting, close to attractions. Please send cover letter, CV and copy of surgical log to footpainbegone@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY REGION, NY

Unique opportunity for the right person! We’re a high-volume, diversified, multi-office group practice utilizing state-of-the-art modalities. Great growth for a personable and motivated DPM. Please forward cover letter with CV to healthyfeet4ever@yahoo.com.

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 - 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

LOCUM TENENS OR ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - ARLINGTON, 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 - 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

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

RACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to: practiceforsaleswfla@gmail.com

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

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14 ,500 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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