The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 11,000 Podiatrists Daily

August 21, 2009 #3,628 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2009- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

IN Podiatrist Disputes Claims of "Toning Shoes"

In a growing trend, "toning shoes" are being sold with claims that wearers can tighten and shape their lower-body muscles just by walking in the shoes. And ads have suggested that they make the gym obsolete. But these oddly-shaped shoes have their share of medical skeptics who say there have not been legitimate, independent studies proving the benefits of these types of shoes over traditional pairs.

Dr. Bruce Williams

Although there have been small studies showing increases in muscular activity with the use of curved soles, Dr. Bruce Williams, a podiatrist and a past president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, said: "My point is that it's not necessarily beneficial even though there's an increase in muscular activity."

For example, a person who limps may have an increase in muscular activity. "Their primary complaint at the end of the day after walking around the mall is that they hurt," Williams said. "So is that necessarily beneficial to them? No, not at all. ... I'm not a big fan of people relearning how to walk." Williams cautioned: "There are lots of claims made by manufacturers of these shoes. Everyone has to take this with a grain of salt."

Source: Madison Park, CNN [8/14/09]

MD Podiatrist Demonstates True Sportmanship at Maccabiah Games

Although Dr. Alex Kor was in Israel to play tennis, he always brings his medical bag. During the 4th day of the Maccabiah Games competition, he noticed a player had been injured on the court. A few onlookers were on the court trying to help but there appeared to be no medical personal on the court. Therefore, he offered his assistance and learned that the player had sustained ankle injury.

Dr. Alex Kor (Far Right)

In examining Ariel Kusneras (Argentina), it was obvious that the ankle was significantly painful and swollen. Kor wrapped his ankle with an Ace bandage and instructed him to get an x-ray. He told Kusneras that he doubted that he would play again, but told him that there was a chance for him to play if the x-rays were negative. On the following day, Kor saw Kusneras limping, but weight bearing. The x-rays were negative but Kusneras was still having a lot of pain. Kor gave an appreciative Kusneras his AirCast ankle brace.

Five days later, Kor and his doubles partner Lisa Chajet advanced to the semifinals. "I had no idea who we were playing, but as I arrived at the court, I saw my 'ankle patient', said Kor. Needless to say, the AirCast worked well as the Argentinians (Kusneras and his wife, Cynthia Edenburg) defeated Kor and Chajet 6-1, 6-1. Kor and Chajet won a Bronze Medal. Two days later, the mixed doubles team from Argentina won the championship.

Source: Mid-Atlantic Matchpoint [August 2009]

AR Podiatrist Treats Staff to Hawaiian Vacation

Russellville podiatrist Danny Aquilar has a unique way to thank his employees for their hard work. He and his wife, Jennifer, treated his entire office staff to a Hawaiian cruise this summer.

Dr. Danny Aquilar

Of the many experiences they were able to partake in, all aboard agreed they were most impressed by the food. “The authentic island luau was the highlight of the trip for me,” Jennifer said. “My daughter, Elizabeth, was still 5 years old, and my son, Nathan, was only 9 months when we traveled, but we had a great time.

Source: Arkansas Democrat Gazette [8/20/09]

Query: Protocol NaOH Matricectomy

Does anyone have a standard protocol when using 10% NaOH for matricectomy?I saw a Turkish study that concluded a one-minute application provided the optimal result without excessive skin reaction. Is this only a one stick application? I have always used multiple applications of fresh phenol on the germinal matrix, but I am not sure this would be advised with NaOH, due to the extreme caustic nature of NaOH (even in dilute concentrations). Is it suggested to neutralize or lavage the area post application, and if so what substance would be best? It appears that the healing time is significantly reduced with NaOH compared to phenol. 

Irwin S. Linker, DPM  Pompano Beach, FL

Query: ESWT in Hospital Setting

Can anyone recommend a company to use for high-energy shockwave therapy done in a hospital setting?

Michael Piccarelli, DPM, Staten Island, NY

RE: Employee Background Check (Mark Lambert, DPM)
From: Multiple Respondents

Our practice has been using IntelQuest (517-545-5530) for years to do background checks on all new employees before they start.  They are thorough, simple to work with, and inexpensive. For several reasons, every practice should do background checks before ever having a new employee start. If they refuse to sign the authorization for the background check, the writing is on the wall.  One of my favorite sayings is to never put yourself between the dog and the lamp post.

Hal Ornstein, DPM, Howell, NJ, toetoe@optonline.net

I have used TGB Associates previously and have found them to be a very reliable company with very reasonable rates. You can find out more on their website TGBAssociates.com. Speak to the owner, Tom, who is very knowledgeable. I find them to be a very professional.

Adam Cirlincione, DPM, Glen Cove, NY, pittpod@gmail.com

There are several online services available such as HireRight. This company handles a multitude of different background checks, including motor vehicle and criminal reports. They offer low costs and fast turnaround.  When working with any professional background screener, there is a preliminary inspection of your facility to make sure you comply with the screener’s information storing policies Usually one person is assigned the task of running the background check. The fewer people involved, the more secure the applicant’s information. A signed consent form is also required by the applicant, in order to run a background check.

It’s important to conduct background checks that are relevant to the position. For example, it doesn’t make sense to run a credit check for a receptionist, but in the case of hiring a bookkeeper, it would be absolutely necessary to find out that applicant’s credit history.  Several laws were created to protect applicants when running background checks. For example, when running a credit check, it’s important to comply with the FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act). A professional background screener, such as HireRight, offers more information regarding acts such as this, plus template letters to help you comply with the act.

Allison Argiro, Director of Human Resources, Pedinol Pharmacal, Inc.
aargiro@pedinol.com

RE: We're Medical Doctors
From: Alan Sherman, DPM

I have a story to tell you that represents a culmination for me, as a podiatrist. I use a social networking website called StumbleUpon.com as entertainment. It's a site that brings you to the highest rated web pages in categories that you choose, representing your interests. It's like walking through your favorite bookstore section and a guide is there to recommend the best books...only here, the guide gives you advice based on the votes of millions of people. “Crowdsourcing” is the term used.  It's remarkable that they're mostly right..and you find some interesting stuff using “StumbleUpon.”
 
Last night, I stumbled to a website called Wiki.Answers.com, a search engine like Google, which allows you to ask questions in full sentences. The question being asked on that page was one I happened to be interested in (no surprise there). It was: "What are the different kinds of medical doctors?"

Hmm...of course I had to check.  And among the gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, anesthesiologists, and  ophthalmologists...were podiatrists.  We certainly deserve this...we are certainly medical doctors.  Stay on the lookout for other similar MD sightings.

Alan Sherman, DPM, CCMEP, CEO, PRESENT e-Learning Systems, asherman@presentelearning.com

RE: Meet The Masters
From:  Charles Perry,  DPM, John D. Lanthier, DPM

I just listened to the sessions with Drs. Block, Weil, and Guiliana. These were excellent. This type of venue "Meet the Masters" was long overdue. As we all struggle to meet the demands of our practices, these conversations let us know that we are not alone and there are friendly "masters" who have gone before to show us the way. I am looking forward to upcoming speakers and hope we can all listen and support this new practice tool. 

Charles Perry,  DPM, Cambridge, OH, drcmp@verizon.net

Editor's Note: If you missed any of Dr. Ribotsky's interviews , you can hear them by clicking here. The next interview will be of Dr. Allen Jacobs.

I wanted to take this opportunity to extend my thanks for how Dr. Block has helped the profession. I read PM News religiously and wish it was published semi-daily. It has connected me with the podiatric community and taught me a great deal about practice. I have become more proud of our profession and the direction we are taking.

I want to congratulate Dr. Block on helping to unite us and for all of his hard work.

John D. Lanthier, DPM, Wilmington, NC,  jckirlan@hotmail.com

RE: Meaningful Use and Upcoming Electronic Medical (Health) Record Rulings
From: Larry Kosova, DPM

I have been reading a lot on this site and getting e-mails about the upcoming EMR changes and payouts to doctors. For too much information look at....

Editor's Note: To read Dr. Kosova's extebnded-length note, see: http://www.podiatrym.com/letters2.cfm?id=28259&start=1
 

RE: IME Doctor Liable Despite No Patient Relationship
From: Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM

Steven Solomon, DPM, JD reported that a NY appeals court held that the doctor who administered an IME was STILL liable for the doctor/patient relationship, even though the doctor was (apparently) not hired by that patient for that opinion.

My take on this is that had the defendant been an attorney, the appeals court would have ruled that no attorney-client relationship existed. Lawyers look after themselves first and foremost. We must never forget that in our day-to-day professional and personal activities.

Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM, San Jose, CA, Rosey1@prodigy.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTH CAROLINA

Very busy practice in Western North Carolina, seeking Full-time Associate with hospital and surgical training. If interested please fax resume to 828-252-2272 or e-mail to mfas828@aol.com

EQIPMENT FOR SALE - ORTHOTIC FABRICATION SYSTEM

Amfit Orthotic Insole Fabrication System with Footfax SL Contact digitizer- For Sale Machine, Laptop, rolling bag, small inventory of shoes, insoles, all cords, parts and hardware Asking $10k.OBO! Please contact Jeff at Jhunt@psbank.net for further information, pictures.

WANTED: PRACTICE TO PURCHASE IN BERGEN COUNTY NJ

DPM interested in purchasing a practice in NNJ. If you are considering selling/retiring/slowing down etc let's talk and come to a mutually beneficial arrangement. Open to all situations/options. Contact: AdvancedFtCare@aol.com for quick deal.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

Full time, hard-working, happy and personable Foot Surgeon needed for busy and growing practice in Frederick and Hagerstown Maryland. PM&S-36 or more required. We have a well-rounded, high tech practice with all types of pathology encountered in our two offices and in two local hospitals as well as our on-site accredited and certified ASC. Very competitive compensation. Please send your CV to drmichaels@rfainstitute.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - FLORIDA—CENTRAL/SOUTH

Turn-key operation grossing $570,000 annually based on one full-time doctor. Great opportunity for growing the top-line. Surgery is only 14% of the professional man-hours; it can significantly increase income. Medicare makes up 64% of revenues. Seller will assist with transition. Call 863-688-1725, ask for Chas.

FOR SALE: MICROVASC UNIT

Excellent Condition, Never Used, New 14K, BEST OFFER. All-Pro 2010 X-Ray processor, used, great condition, Includes cassettes BEST OFFER
NYCPodiatry@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW JERSEY 
 
Established successful practice in Central New Jersey seeking PT/FT Associate. PSR 24/36. Please forward CV to rpg145@gmail.com or fax 908 753-0199.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FREDERICK, MD

Well-established and growing 2 office state-of-the-art practice located in medical/professional buildings. EMR, Digital X-ray, Ultrasound, DME provider, etc. Competitive Base Salary plus bonus, malpractice, health insurance, etc. PSR 24 minimum/Board Qualified or Certified with ability and desire to take ER call. If interested, forward CV to DOCSBNB@aol.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE-VIRGINIA (SOUTHEAST)

Very busy office near Williamsburg. Currently, a satellite office 2 days a week. Great opportunity to make office full-time. Grosses approx. 130,000/year. The office has everything needed to start practicing. All included. Must sell. If interested, e-mail totalfootcareva@hotmail.com

NEEDED CHICAGO -- NW IND & BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON, DC PODIATRISTS

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists in Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and Baltimore, MD. Full and part-time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com Visit our website

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Busy practice in East Central Florida in search of full-time podiatrist to perform routine foot care in office and nursing home. Competitive salary and full benefits available. Reply to jrdpm@bellsouth.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO AREA

Join one of the most successful, long-established podiatry practices in the Chicago area, with excellent salary and benefits. We have an immediate opening for a full-time podiatrist in a multi practice location in Chicago. Must have two years of surgical residency. Please e-mail resume to fmassuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BOSTON, MA

Associate wanted, Full-time or part-time, for busy long time, well established, and well-rounded practice. Good mix of general podiatry and surgery. Office will generate approximately 100+ surgical cases per year. Must have surgical background, ABPS Qualified minimum needed to obtain hospital privileges. Associate position is open for partnership or purchase. Contact robert.nunberg@comcast.net

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 11,500 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 11,500 DPM's. Write to  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 Ext 110

• 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.