The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,509 Podiatrists Daily

August 08, 2013 #4,843 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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NY Podiatrist Discusses Melanomas on Feet

Skin cancer found on the foot is 50% fatal, a survival rate that is dramatically lower than when melanomas are found on other parts of the body. This, doctors say, is because when melanomas are on the foot, they often go unnoticed until a person is having a serious problem. But skin cancer can occur on the soles of the feet, the tops, between the toes, and under the nails. That's why podiatrists say routine foot checks are key.

Dr. Joseph Hogan

"People who are able to see their feet and reach their feet should be looking at their feet on a daily basis. People who cannot see the bottom of their feet perhaps could put a mirror on the floor and tilt their foot so they can see the bottom of their foot," said podiatrist Dr. Joseph Hogan. Dr. Hogan says those who can't check their feet should most certainly see a podiatrist.

Source: WICZ FOX 40 Binghamton [8/6/13]

AAPPM Presents Practice Management Seminar for Third-Year Students

Third-Year Students Attend AAPPM Practice Management Seminar

Recently, AAPPM speakers provided a full-day of practice management at Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine for incoming third-year students right after they took their podiatry boards. This is the second school to embrace practice management. The lectures were presented by the some of the best practice management experts in podiatry.

NY Podiatrist Discusses Flip-Flops

Dr. Suzanne Levine demonstrated how wearing flip-flops over a long period of time can cause foot problems. "You get a widening of the foot. You can develop plantar fasciitis. You are putting too much pressure on the foot, and you can actually see the foot flatten," says Levine.

Dr. Suzanne Levine

On the flip side, there are some flats that will work for you as long as you only wear them for a few hours at a time. "You want something with a good arch support and lots of cushioning," says Levine.

Source: Jennifer Ash, ABC TV News [8/6/13]

OH Podiatrist Plans to Buy OSU Building Free of Deed Restrictions

Ohio State University plans to sell two stone Clintonville cottages that were willed to the school a decade ago. The buyer is a podiatrist who currently leases the cottages — he works in one and lives in the other — and says he has invested $250,000 in the property. The podiatrist, Dr. Scot Bertolo, said he has no plans to redevelop the property and resents the efforts of those pushing for deed restrictions.

Dr. Scot Bertolo (photo: Kyle Robertson)

Bertolo, 46, said, “I plan on being here the rest of my life.” A neighbor, architect Kevin Miller, said the cottages, built in 1936, are architecturally significant and should have deed restrictions to preserve them. Ohio State has no plans to agree to any deed restrictions in the sale, said spokesman Gary Lewis. Franklin County Probate Court approved the sale after examining the intent of the bequest, Lewis said.

Source: Mark Ferenchik, The Columbus Dispatch [8/3/13]

GA Podiatrist Joins Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia

Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia has announced the newest member of its team of podiatrists in GA with Dr. Bhavin Mehta on board. A professional wound specialist with 10 years of experience, the Newnan podiatrist has been treating the residents of Coweta and Meriwether Counties.

Dr. Bhavin Mehta

Dr. Mehta earned his medical degree at New York College of Podiatric Medixcine and finished residency training at Veteran’s Administrative Medical Center in Boston. He also completed a fellowship at the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute of Rehabilitation.

Query: HIPAA and Drug Seeking Patients

A female with moderate mental illness presented to the office seeking the drug Adderall. She was angry that I was not able to give her the med (Adderall  abuse can create psychosis). I asked her to leave. She hesitated, then I said I will count to 10. She put her shoes on and walked to the door and left saying, "I love you" in a British accent. She had two backpacks, so I worry about the potential for violence. For the sake of the public or patient self-harm, do I need to report this incident? I did not take her as a patient. What about HIPAA violations by giving a name to police for a complaint?    

Billie Bondar, DPM, Nashua, NH

Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. Since you did not accept this woman as your patient, it is questionable whether HIPAA even applies. Even if this patient was covered under HIPAA, the Privacy Rules explicitly "allow a physician to disclose protected health information for law enforcement purposes, although the physician must comply with certain requirements. For example, the type of information that may be disclosed may be limited and the physician may need to verify the identity and authority of the officer making the request."  A complaint may ultimately help this patient and others. 

RE: Diagnostic Ultrasound (Michael Forman, DPM)
From: Marc Katz, DPM

There is no overuse of ultrasound. There is not enough use of ultrasound. I completely agree that ultrasound is invaluable for all of the applications that you mentioned and serves as a great diagnostic tool.

However, there are issues to be discussed. Many doctors that use ultrasound have no clue what they are viewing, but they use this tool to add dollars to...

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

RE: Diagnostic Ultrasound (Thomas Graziano, DPM, MD)
From: Ira Baum, DPM

I agree with Dr. Graziano’s summation regarding the use and abuse of diagnostic ultrasound. However, I want to address the myth of the “series of 3 steroid injections” for plantar fasciitis. As an initial treatment of acute plantar fasciitis, I provide the  patient the option of a steroid injection. I also address the biomechanical etiology (if it is a biomechanical etiology). If the patient’s response is a reduction of symptoms, my focus is directed at the etiology, and phasing out of treatment of the inflammation and incrementally increasing their activity level. I know Dr. Graziano, and I know he follows a similar path of treatment, but I don’t think a series of steroid injections has any rational basis as a protocol.
 
Ira Baum, DPM, Miami, FL, ibaumdpm@bellsouth.net

RE: Recommendations for Securing Small Business Loans (Daniel T. Hall, DPM)
From: Andrea Simons, DPM
 
Three years ago, I started my own practice after spending one year out of residency with another group. To secure my start-up business loan, I went to multiple local banks to get interest rate quotes and the requirements necessary for their bank/credit union. For a start-up loan, I needed 1:1 collateral to secure the loan, and since I had recently just finished residency and had a large amount of school loans, I did not have the 1:1 collateral necessary. My parents had to co-sign on the loan with me in order to secure the loan. 

I also had a very detailed business plan to show them how I planned on repaying the loan and what I projected the practice to bring in for the next 3 years. I did figure in a salary for myself (very modest and just enough to live on) and $50,000 of working capital. I was surprised how long it actually took for the money to actually start coming in, and all of the little expenses that I did not expect when I started the practice. 

I would be happy to talk to anyone who is looking at starting/buying a practice and to give any tips/advice that I can. Although it was a lot of hard work, it was very much worth it!

Andrea Simons, DPM, Dewitt, MI, andreamulder13@hotmail.com

RE: APMA and The Residency Crisis
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM

A few weeks ago, I was critical of the APMA Weekly Focus email. I was upset that the week new residents began their residencies, the "Weekly Focus" column did not mention anything about the "residency crisis." In today's Weekly Focus, there were two "blurbs" about the crisis. "CPME announces new action on residency shortage" and a letter from the APMA executive director.

I am happy to read and see discussion, plans, etc. Similarly, I think it was so important to read and hear from the unmatched voicing their concerns and telling of their plights. Communication is important. If there is one thing to learn from this mess, I think having leadership communicate to the profession better would be a valuable lesson.
 
Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY, Jeffckass@aol.com

RE: Unmatched Residency Placements Currently Stand at 80
From: George Pattis, DPM

1) The dental profession gives reciprocity for dentists licensed in any of 46 states. Why doesn't podiatry have multi-state reciprocity for a DPM licensed in one of 46 states? (hint - under cover of protecting the public - the real meaning is  to restrict licenses.)

2) Can anyone explain to me why a NP or a PA can treat multiple non-surgical common podiatric problems with a 2-year Masters degree and a 4-year DPM graduate cannot?

3) Why can a nail tech with a 6-week course legally trim diabetic nails with...

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

RE: APMAPAC Donates $10,000 to CA Podiatrist's Campaign (Russell J. Barone, DPM)
From Joseph Weisenfeld, DPM
 
The Affordable Care Act is law. It specifically allows people to keep their current health insurance. Therefore, all the groups Dr. Barone mentioned are in compliance. If Dr. Rogers states that he supports the Affordable Care Act law, I hope he can count on your financial support.

You may believe that the benefits federal employees have are too generous. You can (and should) inform Dr. Rogers and your local representatives of your views, and ways to improve/amend this law.
 
Disclosure: My last political donation was to my local congressman for his support of podiatry. I oppose most of his political positions and he is aware of this.
 
Joseph Weisenfeld, DPM, Staten Island, NY, JATOE2@AOL.COM

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 POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Associate position for busy practice in Central Florida. Competitive salary with complete benefit package available. Please send resume to cmedders@atlanticpodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Associate wanted for an established 25 year old practice. PSR24 or 36 would be preferred. Excellent opportunity. Please send CV or letter to bafamt@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL PA

Looking for an associate with 3-year surgical residency. The physician will provide all aspects of podiatric practice, including sports medicine, wound care, and foot and ankle surgery. Competitive compensation package. Partnership opportunity for right person. To apply, please email, letter of intent and CV to stringernyc@hotmail.com

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 - SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN

Seeking a quality-oriented, patient-focused PSR trained associate for a fast paced, established group practice in Southeast Michigan. This is a secure, long-term position. Emphasis on diabetic foot and wound care.  Our outstanding staff allows you to concentrate on optimal patient care without the responsibilities of practice management. Partnership possibility for the right individual. If you are highly motivated, ethical and have good communication and clinical skill, please forward you C.V. to:cfsdr@yahoo.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

POSITION AVAILABLE - MASSACHUSETTS

Boston Medical Center. Full-time career opportunity: surgery, diabetic foot care, wound care, general podiatry, resident training & research. Split position: (90%) on-site BMC and (10%) off-site health center clinics Boston University School of Medicine Academic appointment. Requirements: Completion of 24-36 month surgical residency. Please forward CV and letter of interest to: Erin.walker@bmc.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY NY

Part time position in busy practice leading to f/t. Looking for well trained minimum PSR-12 with great technique and people skills for part time leading to f/t position in fast growing practice. Competitive salary with huge growth potential. Send cover letter, CV and work experience to:PodassociateNY@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO

Join an established group practice in Dayton, Ohio excellent reputation, large referral base.  Base Salary$120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR;diagnostic ultrasound; Padnet; CO2 and Cutera Laser for nails, all aspects of DME. We need well trained personable PSR24/36 surgeon. Future Buy-in available. Please send CV to Ohiomedical@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

OFFICE AVAILABLE - TACOMA, WA>

Podiatry clinic available for podiatrist one or two days a week. Current doctor does no bone surgery. Perfect for someone wishing to supplement a current office or a new practitioner looking to get his foot in the door in the Puget Sound area. Email CV and cover letter to 4MYFEET@sbcglobal.net.

NEW PRECEPTORSHIP POSITION NOW OPEN

Philadelphia based multi-doctor practice offering preceptorship. Unique practice blending ‘traditional’ podiatric services with acupuncture, sports medicine and podiatric pain management. Individual must be motivated, personable and have strong computer skills. Please respond by email with resume and  CASPR application. Selection process will be completed quickly, so please respond timely if you are interested. ediamond7@comcast.net

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.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MAINE

30 year, full service practice in Bangor, Maine. Cooperative and appreciative patients. A wonderful community to practice in and recreate during your free time. Owner is semi-retired, now ready to fully retire but will stay for transition. mainefootdoc@yahoo.com.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - HUNTINGTON PARK, CA

46 years same location. Unsurpassed visibility on corner of major intersection. 3 fully equipped treatment rooms. Perfect opportunity to build a strong practice. Must retire due to age. Selling price $30,000 firm. (323) 588-1179 MTWF. evaonofre@hotmail.com

PRACTICE 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 - STAMFORD, CONENCTICUT

Well rounded general and surgical podiatry practice in beautiful Stamford, CT. 35 years. Walk to the hospital and OR. $350k gross / 4 days per week. May lease present office space. Super office manager. Practice offered @ $100k. jefre1@msn.com

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