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The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 9,500 Podiatrists Daily
August 07, 2007 #3,007 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2007- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.
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For your patients with onychomycosis due to dermatophytes (tinea unguium)
Make Gris-PEG® your choice for onychomycosis
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· FDA indicated for the treatment of onychomycosis
in adults and children > 2 yrs
· Dependable Safety Profile
· Widespread Formulary Coverage
.
For full prescribing information, please visit our website www.Gris-PEG.com
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Gris-PEG® – An Onychomycosis Option
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
IL Podiatrist Uses Topaz For Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Chronic plantar fasciitis, an extreme inflammation of the tight band of connecting tissue that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. "This is the area where the fluid builds up, where the inflammation builds up, and it's exactly where it hurts in most people,” said podiatrist Marlene Reid. The causes can range from your foot structure, to an injury, to walking on hard surfaces. "Weight gain, pregnancy, wearing the wrong shoes, new shoes, old shoes, walking on cement is a big problem,” Reid said.
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Dr. Marlene Reid |
To stop the pain, Reid uses a tiny wand that generates low heat, radio-frequency energy. She marks her spots, then slips the wand through the skin. The energy goes directly to the damaged tissue, and breaks it down. Unlike traditional surgeries, there's no incision, just tiny punctures. It takes about half an hour under local anesthesia. "We don't have to worry about the skin healing, we don't have to worry about the deep tissue healing, and it starts healing immediately though the process,” Reid said.
This procedure -- called the Topaz -- is not for everyone, only severe cases. Most foot pain patients get relief with stretching, anti-inflammatory medication, wearing heel cups or orthotics, cortisone shots or ultrasound therapy. There are also other causes of foot pain. Before any treatment, good diagnosis is critical.
Source: Mary Ann Childers, WBBM-TV CBS 2 Chicago (IL) [8/4/07]
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35 seconds to outstanding radiographs can begin now
WITH ALLPRO IMAGING’S SCANX® 12 COMPUTED RADIOGRAPHY SYSTEM
• ScanX 12 is fast. • Expect diagnostic quality results in 35 seconds. • Expect to take X-Rays the usual way. • Simply replace film with any of our 10”x12” or 8”x10 reusable plates. • Works with your existing X-Ray equipment. • No need for a darkroom. • Portable models available (ideal if you have more than 1 office).
Learn more at www.allproimaging.com/podiatry/scanx/default.aspx Or call 516-214-5611 today for more information.
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PODIATRISTS AND THE LAW |
FL Doctor Suspended Amid Allegations Of Fraud
A doctor was suspended from his practice Thursday for submitting false claims, according to the Florida Department of Health. Podiatrist Donald Edward Beckett is accused of making false statements and false representation of a material fact in claims submitted to the Florida Medicaid program, the health department says in a written statement.
He listed a provider that did not provide treatment, according to the health department. Beckett also is accused of fraudulently using the personal identification information of three or more individuals without their consent.
As a result, the state surgeon general issued an emergency suspension order that prevents Beckett from practicing as a podiatric physician in Florida until the Florida Board of Podiatric Medicine reviews the accusations.
Source: Tampa Tribune [8/4/07]
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COMPARE SAFESTEP TO ALL OTHER SHOE PROGRAMS AND SEE FOR YOURSELF
Why SafeStep? SafeStep offers the most shoe styles, the lowest prices and provides the easiest, most profitable way to participate in the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program. Shoes from $39, custom inserts from $66/3 prs. Earn as much as $200 for at-risk diabetic patients you fit with shoes and inserts.
SafeStep features Aetrex OrthoFeet, Brooks, Pedors, New Balance, Hush Puppies, Soft Spots, Acor and Santuit. Need a DME Supplier Number? SafeStep sends you the forms you need -already filled out! - FREE electronic Medicare billing FREE billing of Richie and Arizona AFO's - FREE annual patient reminder letters for new shoes, FREE Medicare customized compliance documentation - Easy, no-cost returns. GET 5 FREE SAMPLE SHOES WHEN YOU REGISTER. For More Information and to Register for FREE. www.SafeStep.net 866-712-STEP
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HEALTHCARE NEWS |
Oregon to Offer Universal Healthcare Coverage by 2010
Oregon will offer health insurance to all uninsured residents by 2010 if the state can carry out a recently adopted plan and if voters approve a cigarette tax. In late June, Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski signed the Healthy Oregon Act, a 14-page road map for reforming the state's healthcare system and covering all of the state's roughly 615,000 uninsured residents -- about 17% of the population. The law calls for a health insurance pool for the uninsured and suggests an individual insurance mandate.
The new law: • Calls for covering 615,000 uninsured residents by expanding Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program, and offering affordable health care coverage through an insurance pool. • Creates the seven-member Oregon Health Fund Board to develop a plan by Oct. 1, 2008, to cover the state's uninsured. The board is also to propose ways to contain health care costs and improve quality, with a focus on primary and preventive care.
• Calls for the Health Fund Board to create a committee to examine Medicare policies that contribute to relatively low physician pay rates.
Source: Doug Trapp, AMNews [8/6/07]
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APMA SCIENTIFIC MEETING EVENTS
Hotel shuttle bus to get you where you need to be…….. $ free Wine and hors d’oeurvres……………………..………....$ free Reuniting with friends and colleagues…………..............$ Priceless
Save the evening of Thursday, August 16 for the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine Alumni Association in Philadelphia. Renew friendships and reconnect with classmates at the Alumni Reunion Reception
For more information contact tuspm.alumni@temple.edu or call 215-625-5248
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Query: Vancomycin Beads
I am looking for a recipe for Vancomycin beads, or source(s) for pre-fab ABX beads--very small ones to place in and around the distal 1st metatarsal & head bone. Any other input (pearls, advice, anecdotes) on employing antibiotic beads for MRSA osteomyelitis and recurrent soft tissue infection (cellulitis, abscess, necrosis) to the soft tissues in this area would be appreciated. Will Godfrey, DPM, Leesville, LA, WilliamTrekkie@EarthLink.Net
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Digital Ultrasound System for $7990 --- APMA Booth# 619
Podiatry ultrasound imaging system for only $7990 (Regularly $11,000). System includes cart, custom carrying case, 3-year warranty, free loaner, training workshops, report templates, and more. Order at APMA Booth# 619 -- Atlantic Medical. Bring this ad for a free gift and Enter for an iPod. Not going APMA? Please express mail a signed copy of this ad, write “order ultrasound equipment”, your business card with $300 deposit to Atlantic Medical LLC, 7360 Guilford Dr, STE 204, Frederick MD 21703 Call 888-383-8858. www.atlanticmedicalLLC.com Orders post marked after 08/18 will NOT receive this price. (apma2)
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RESPONSES / COMMENTS |
Arthrex’s Mini TightRope Hardware (Bruce Williams, DPM) From: Multiple Respondents
I have placed a dozen of the Mini-TightRope implants since March, for bunions with intermetatarsal angles up to 19 degrees and in one tailor's bunion. I have assisted my group Partners in placing an additional half dozen. Early results have been outstanding. Based upon your query, I sense you are concerned about the 2nd metatarsal drifting away from the 3rd.
I have not measured any increase in the 2nd intermetatarsal angle. I believe the base of the second metatarsal is too firmly locked into place to move medially.
There is a bit of a learning curve to the procedure, and I have devised a method that makes placement of the implant easier than the technique described by Arthrex. It would be too lengthy to describe here on this forum; e-mail me if you'd like more details. There is a critical step one must take to avoid second metatarsal stress fracture, which is a complication I have seen in one case.
Nat Chotechuang, DPM, Bend, OR, natchot@hotmail.com
I have actually used the mini-tight rope for a revisional bunionectomy twice in older patients. These have done extremely well in a patient where a Lapidus was needed due to a failed Austin/Akin by another practitioner but the patient in my opinion never would have fused due to bone stock issues. These definitely should not be used in replacement for a fusion in a younger, active patient because they have the potential to break therefore losing your correction and there is some valid concern biomechanically, but in your less active, older patients it’s a great new addition to your tool box. After the first one, it’s actually quite simple to put in as well and only adds about 10 minutes to the procedure. Marybeth Crane, MS, DPM, Grapevine, TX, crane@faant.com
Although I have not used this system in the forefoot, I do have experience with its use in ankle fracture repair. I have seen this system break in a couple of ankles. My only concern would be utilizing this in a high IM bunion deformity, without the indicated shaft or base procedure. I would be concerned about stress related failure. Its application in Lisfranc dislocations is interesting, I'd like to see some randomized studies.
Gerald Mauriello Jr., DPM, MA, Jamaica, NY, mauriellodpm@gmail.com
I have used the mini tightrope on a supposedly perfect candidate: high IM, reducible, no MPE. We followed personal instructions on how to put it in from Dr. G. Holmes director of orthopedic foot and ankle section at Rush, who worked on developing the mini tightrope. While on the table, the Mcbride/minitight rope reduction was perfect, but we couldn't help but worry whether the button was going to fracture through the second metatarsal. Two weeks post-op the button fractured the shaft of the second metatarsal.
On the other hand, the Tightrope for syndesmotic ankle ruptures is great and we've used it on a few occasions.
Svetlana Zat, DPM, Chief Podiatry Resident, Rush Univ Medical Center, svetlanazats@hotmail.com
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CODINGLINE CORNER
CURRENT TOPICS BEING DISCUSSED ON CODINGLINE'S LISTSERV INCLUDE:
o Coding Cryosurgery for Neuroma Treatment o Coding Equinus Correction Surgery o Sclerosing Solution *J* Code o WPS Non-Payment for GraftJacket o Practice Buy-In Considerations
Codingline subscription information can be found at http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm
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CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASSOCIATE WANTED - PHOENIX, AZ AREA
A well established, ethical solo podiatry practice wishes to expand its current surgical services in the near future by hiring a full-time associate with PSR 24-36 training which includes very strong surgical rear-foot and ankle reconstruction, diabetic limb salvage and ER trauma. Successful association may lead to partnership. ABPS Board qualified/certification is required. Applicants must be personable and caring to patients. Practice in an office base within a new state-of-the-art orthopedic surgical hospital environment and plenty of future expansion capabilities for a bright, eager, reliable associate. Email complete CV with current references & photo to footdoc352@cox.net
PRACTICE FOR SALE OR SHARING- CENTRAL FLORIDA
Practice all phases. Wound care, hyperbaric privileges nearby. Excellent building, location, and exposure on busy highway. Outstanding place to live and work; low penetration by managed care. Ample parking and accessibility with 2,000 sq. ft building designed and equipped for podiatry (lease or buy) 7 minutes from hospital. Great price, terms and opportunity to grow. 352-357-7499 - windnwave@earthlink.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA
Busy Long Beach California Practice: Looking for Board certified Associate. Send resume to our Fax@ 562-424-3395
ASSOCIATE POSITION- MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE
A.S.A.P.! Excellent opportunity for well-trained, highly motivated PSR 24/36 or experienced practitioner leading to partnership in one year and complete buy out in five years. Generous salary/benefits first year. Large well rounded practice, heavy in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. Send C.V. - FAX (901) 396-5335 or Email drjoelcook@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MISSOURI
One of our long-term associates needs to relocate due to family reasons. Step into full schedule. Five locations in growing population area without HMO's. Partnership available. Missouridpm@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA
Multi-specialty group is looking to add another Podiatric Surgeon or General Podiatrist to our well-established group. Office locations in northwestern Pennsylvania. Unlimited opportunities exist for the right Associate, wound care experience is a plus. Please forward your CV to adminsec@ips-mso.com
ASSOCIATE WANTED – NEW YORK IMMEDIATE OPENING
Busy multi-dimensional practice; 70 miles north of New York City. Currently five (5)-doctor practice. looking to expand – all phases of podiatric medicine. contact: (845) 454-8308 EXT: 106
ASSOCIATE POSITION SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
Immediate opening for PSR 24/36 individual in three office practice. We are looking for an ethical, hard working, well trained Podiatrist. Partnership available. Please Fax CV to sfpodiatry@aol.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION -CONNECTICUT-NORTH HAVEN
Seeking a part-time associate for a busy, well-established, respected, growing practice. Desiring an ethical, motivated, personable, well-trained PSR12/24/ or 36 podiatrist. Our practice is well-rounded and diverse with a good mix of sports medicine, diabetic care, surgery, podopediatrics, and general podiatry. Email information and CV to Pedy7@aol.com with subject heading “Podiatry Associate.”
POSITION AVAILABLE - SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE/ NORTH GEORGIA
Immediate position available or will wait for the right individual. Unique practice opportunity in growing multi-physician/multi-office practice. Well established/cutting edge within the medical community. Close proximity to hospitals as well as opportunity to become involved with a free standing podiatric surgical center. Must be BQ/BC. Minimum PSR/24. Competitive salary, bonus structure and benefits. E-mail CV to afcjen@hotmail.com
POSITION AVAILABLE- MANHATTAN, NY
Immediate position for a part associate to work x3 days/wk. Office based OR suite with nitrous and power. Midtown-Park ave. entrance with a total of four treatment rooms and a private office. Candidate must have PSR/24 with experience, Interested parties Fax CV, references and requirements to (770)497-4343.
PODIATRISTS NEEDED - CHICAGO --NORTHWEST INDIANA
Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists. We are located in Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Full and part time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-292-4800. Fax 773-486-3548 ---------------------E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com -- www.homephysicians.com
WEEKLY SPECIAL - One week of ads (5x) for only $85
PM Classified Ads Reach over 9,500 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 9,000 DPM's. Write bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 dekagan@aol.com
Busy multi-dimensional practice; 70 miles north of New York City. Currently five (5)-doctor practice. looking to expand – all phases of podiatric medicine. contact: (845) 454-8308 EXT: 106
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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
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RE: (Topic)
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Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use
Spellchecker
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- 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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