The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,601 Podiatrists Daily

August 23, 2013 #4,856 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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MA Podiatrist Appointed to Prevention and Wellness Advisory Board

David Alper, DPM has been appointed as a member of the Prevention and Wellness Commission by MA Governor Deval Patrick. The Commission will make recommendations to the Commissioner of the MA Department of Public Health (MDPH) concerning the administration and allocation of a $60 million Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund (PWTF) over four years.

Dr. David Alper

Alper graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine (Now Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine) and completed his residency at Truman Medical Center. Additionally, he completed a fellowship at Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem, Israel.

OR Podiatrist Part of Award Winning Native American Diabetes Prevention Program

Podiatrist Dr. Chris Seuferling with patient during a 2009 NARA diabetes clinic (photo: Olivia Bucks).

The Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest this summer has been recognized with national and Portland-area awards for its efforts fighting diabetes in a population that is disproportionately affected by it. "It was a lot of work to get here," says Jackie Mercer, CEO of the association, known as NARA. "Diabetes has been ravaging native people. We've made a dent in it. Our community understands and supports that work."

Source: Sara Hottman. The Oregonian [8/21/13]

Husband and Wife MN Podiatrists Join Lake Region Healthcare

Lake Region Healthcare has welcomed two new podiatrists, Dr. Stephen Schmid and Dr. Naomi Schmid, to their healthcare team. Dr. Stephen Schmid received his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 2010 at Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. He recently completed post-graduate residency and served as Chief Resident of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery with Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery Credentials at the Detroit Medical Center in Detroit, MI.

Drs. Stephen and Naomi Schmid

Dr. Naomi Schmid received her Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 2010 at Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, Ill. She recently completed a post-graduate residency and served as Chief Resident of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery with Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery Credentials at the Providence Hospital and Health Center in Southfield, MI.

Source: Fergus Falls Journal [8/19/13]

New IPA for Podiatrists Formed in Illinois

A new Podiatry Independent Physicians Association (IPA) has been formed in Illinois. Headquartered in Chicago, Med-Surg Specialists IPA of Illinois was formed by Dr. Sev Hrywnak to provide guidance and direction to podiatric physicians in these ever-changing times in the health industry.

Dr. Sev Hrywnak

The IPA will provide each member with the guidelines that ACOs are looking for along with CME credits, billing consultations, ICD-10 updates, EMR, access to board certification, and surgical staff privileges at local surgical centers, and office management consultations.

Source: Digital Journal [8/21/13]

Human Feet Still Built for Life in Trees, Like Our Ape Relatives

Although our human ancestors climbed down from the trees millions of years ago, our feet have retained the type of flexibility seen in today’s tree-dwelling primates, new research shows. Thanks to a pressure-sensitive treadmill, researchers at the University of Liverpool were able to examine 25,000 footsteps made by 45 healthy human volunteers. About two-thirds of those volunteers took some steps in which their mid-foot touched the ground, they found.

“Humans are supposed to have unique feet, but it looks like we don’t,” said Robin Crompton, a musculoskeletal biologist at the University of Liverpool, who worked on the study. Why human feet have remained somewhat suited to life in the trees is still unclear. Crompton thinks that adaptations to tree-dwelling may also be useful for moving over irregular terrain.

Source: Melissa Pandika, The Los Angeles Times [8/21/13] via Dr. Jay Sung

New Use of Old Technology Could Aid Diabetic Foot Disease

A novel use of an old technology could help earlier diagnosis of osteomyelitis in the feet of diabetic patients, which in turn could lead to better treatment and perhaps fewer amputations in the long run, a new feasibility study published online August 6 in Diabetes Care has shown. The researchers identified early changes in bone composition with the use of Raman spectroscopy in 17 patients with a clinical diagnosis of osteomyelitis in their feet requiring surgical intervention.

The distinctive presence of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, known as brushite, and uncarbonated apatite appeared to be uniquely associated with infected areas of bone, say Blake J. Roessler, MD, from the University of Michigan Medical School's division of metabolism, endocrinology, and diabetes, Ann Arbor, Michigan, and colleagues. "The goal would be more accurate or rapid diagnosis in a point-of-care environment with a cost point that would be much less than CT or MRI," said Dr. Roessler. "We think there could be value streams in terms of better utilization of antibiotics and surgical interventions for diabetic patients."

Source: Nancy A. Melville, Medscape News  [8/12/13] via Dr. Paul Kesselman

CMS Mulls How to Unseal Medicare Doctor Pay Data

Medicare policy on disclosing individual physician payment data has been re-opened for debate in light of recent legal challenges and administrative efforts to provide greater transparency on health spending. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is requesting comments on the potential release of payment information that could include the line-item details reported on claims for patient services, or aggregated data for individual physicians. The deadline for comment submissions is Sept. 5.

The Dept. of Health and Human Services created policy in 1980 that states, “the public interest in the individually identified payment amounts is not sufficient to compel disclosure in view of the privacy interest of the physicians.” The question as to whether this sentiment has changed will be open for discussion. CMS posted an Aug. 6 request for comments on that policy as part of the Obama administration effort to shed more light on Medicare billing.

Source: Charles Fiegl, Amednews [8/19/13]

Query: Traumatized Hallux Nail in 9 Year Old

A 9 year old boy was brought to my office having traumatically lost his hallux nail 2 years prior, after dropping a large rock on it. At that time, no medical care was sought. The nail re-grew abnormally. He now has intermittent pain in the hallux interphalangeal joint, which mom thinks is from the deformed toe nail. The boy thinks the nail is cosmetically “ugly” but pain-free. It is obvious that the traumatized toe is larger than the non-injured toe, and questioning shows this to have been a gradual deformity since the injury. 

Traumatized Hallux Nail in 9 Year Old

X-rays show normal bone but the outline of the enlarged toe is apparent. The joints appear normal. There is no limitation of motion or crepitus or pain. All labs including rheumatoid and ANA work-ups are normal with an ESR of 30 (normal high is 15). Although a growth plate injury can stimulate bone growth, this appears to be primarily soft tissue. I am considering an MRI to see if I can visualize any damaged cartilage. Any other suggestions?
 
David E. Gurvis, DPM, Avon, IN

RE: I Want to Work as a Podiatrist (Sarah Montgomery, DPM)
From: Meeta S. Pancholi, DPM

Sarah's story should horrify all of us. Times have indeed changed. Training is everything. Apparently, even banks know this. We should keep in mind that the unmatched are not just for this year, but are from past years as well.

The schools have sold false hope, and the students deserve a refund. Perhaps a year unplaced should mean a year refunded.

There are many of us willing to help, but creating training options is unappealingly challenging. There needs to be a better pathway to create residencies.

Meeta S. Pancholi, DPM, Palmerton, PA, acpwc@ptd.net

RE: I Want to Work as a Podiatrist (Sarah Montgomery, DPM)
From: Michael J Marcus, DPM

I carefully reviewed Dr. Montgomery's story - actually a plea. It's all very sad for the profession, for the system, and especially for the individuals involved -  DPMs and their supporting families. Much has been written and proposed. But what's being done to prevent this from happening again?

An article appeared this mornings in the LA Times regarding law school admissions. Law school grads are finding it difficult to obtain jobs. The law schools have decided to reduce their enrollment in order to adjust to their apparent situation. It seems logical to me that maybe we should consider similar methods. We should also increase the requirements for acceptance to be more selective and to ensure a residency position for every graduate.

In the meantime, I know a graduate, now a DPM, who like Dr. Montgomery is concerned about his future. What can we do now to help these individuals within our practices? How can we put them to work? How can we guide them? Any ideas (besides starting a new residency program at our local hospital)?

Michael J Marcus, DPM, Irvine/Montebello, CA, ftmed@aol.com

RE: Wart Treatments (Theresa M. Hughes, DPM)
From: Michael J. "Dusty" McCourt, DPM

In regard to cantharone, I obtain mine from a compounding pharmacy in Roseburg, OR and have even heard that the local compounding pharmacy here in Eugene does it as well. I, too, have had great results and happy patients with using it.. Here are the websites:

NW compounding pharmacy: nwcmpd-rx.com/Homepage.html 
Broadway: broadwayapothecary.com/

Michael J. "Dusty" McCourt, DPM, Eugene, OR, dustydock@gmail.com

RE: Wart Treatments (Theresa M. Hughes, DPM)
From: Kevin A. Kirby, DPM

I have been using Falknor's needling method both for solitary and mosaic verrucae quite successfully now for the past 20 years.  The late Gordon W. Falknor, DPM, first described this "needling method" for verrucae plantaris treatment in "Falknor GW: Needling-a new technique in verruca therapy: a case report."  JAPA, 59:51-52, 1969.
 
Falknor originally described his needling method to offer the following advantages:
 
1. A minimum of time is required to perform this technique.
2. A minimum of material (anesthetic, syringe, dressing) is employed.
3. There is a minimum of post-operative pain.
4. A minimum of bandaging and dressing is needed.
5. A minimum of post-operative calls are required.
6. No ulceration, infection or scarring results.
7. The patient may continue to bathe as usual.
8. There are no restrictions on work or athletic activities.
9. There is a low rate of recurrence.
 
These have also been my clinical observations in the numerous times I have performed his technique on my own patients over the past two decades.
 
A more recent study of 45 patients was just published a few months ago in the Journal of Clinical Medicine that showed a 69% resolution of verrucae following needling treatment (Longhurst B, Bristow I:  The treatment of verrucae pedis using Falknor's needling method: A review of 46 cases.  J. Clin. Med. 2013, 2, 13-21: doi:10.3390/jcm2020013).
 
Kevin A. Kirby, DPM, Sacramento, CA, kevinakirby@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.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - Q-CLEAR LASER

Brand new Light Age Q-Clear laser. This is a very unique one time opportunity. Recent special purchase permits sale of only a few units at the largest discount available. Rapid return on investment. Complete system with warranty and expert training included. Contact Dr. Holfinger at 216-390-9757.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - CONNECTICUT

Well-established, 35-year-old reputable practice/condo with approx 2,500 Square ft. Grossing approximately $450,000. Outside Hartford area. All phases of podiatry. Contact drsch52@hotmail.com

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 - QUEENS, NY

37 year practice.  7 years left on lease (transferable) - includes utilities. High traffic location, right near subway.  Selling practice as-is. 3 treatment rooms with chairs and x-ray equipment. Looking for quick sale. Price negotiable. Contact josh.block@gmail.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, CONNECTICUT

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

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

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.net or fax 815-230-4925.

PODIATRIST WANTED - LONG ISLAND, NY

Busy Nassau County NY office, experienced in all phases of podiatry, preferably board certified, excellent salary, email CV to jobke@aol.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 - NYC METRO AREA

Must participate with HealthFirst, Affinity, Fidelis health plans (2 of 3 OK). Preferably on staff at Bronx or Manhattan hospitals or surgicenters. Excellent opportunity for quick partnership. email CV torrranch7@yahoo.com 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

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 - 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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. Florida has a great scope of practice law and we rotate for ER call at all 4 hospitals. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner OK. Base salary, percentage, benefits including 401K. Fax CV to (239)566-8778 or Email CV to Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NYC and QUEENS, NY

We need a podiatrist (recent grads. welcome) for participation in NYC and Astoria Queens to learn and treat fungal nails with PinPointe laser. Perfect to pick up money in your spare time. Please respond to hansfeet@aol.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 - 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 POSITION - SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN (MI LICENSE REQUIRED)

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 CV to:cfsdr@yahoo.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

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