The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

September 01, 2012 #4,555 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Congratulations to: Dr. Honor Manilla of Lansdale, PA , winner of a six night stay for up to four persons in an upper floor of a 2-bedroom bungalow with hot tub at the SugarMill Suites in Tobago, the West Indies (value $1,680)We encourage you to participate in this important survey at www.podiatrym.com/survey Completing this confidential survey provides us with valuable data, which we will publish in the February 2013 issue of Podiatry Management. It also makes you eligible to win thousands of dollars of valuable prizes.

Hotel Monaco Alexandria

This week's prize is a one-night weekend stay at the Hotel Monaco Alexandra, a luxury boutique hotel in Old Town Alexandria, VA (value $175).  This is also your opportunity to vote for the next DPM and Non-DPM inductees into the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame.

We've just posted an article titled "Autologous Platelets for Treatment of Tendonopathy of the Foot and Ankle" by Adam Budny, DPM on our website.

Dr. Adam Budny

South African Podiatrist Discusses Footwear and Pregnancy

You may not be able to see your feet, but you can’t ignore them, says Durban podiatrist Nelfrie Kemp. Put your feet before your sense of style during your pregnancy. The idea of sensible shoes may seem ridiculous for women who follow fashion trends, but pregnancy and post-pregnancy foot pain can make even the most dedicated fashion addict appreciate the value of supportive, good fitting shoes.

Nelfrie Kemp

You’re carrying an important load, so stability, support, and foot comfort are important. The combination of the physical stress and changes can stress and flatten the longitudinal arches and metatarsal arches of your feet, and ultimately affect the way your shoes fit. You may require bigger (longer & wider) shoes.

Source: East Coast Radio [8/22/12]

IL Podiatrist is First to Speak at Aussie Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society

Lowell Weil Jr. DPM of the Weil Foot-Ankle & Orthopedic Institute was an invited lecturer at the Australian Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society meeting this week in Tasmania, Australia. He was on the program with American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society President Lew Schon, MD.

Dr. Lowell Weil, Jr. at Australian Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society

Dr. Weil spoke on the subject of plantar plate repair, 28 years of the Scarf procedure for bunion correction, and osteotomies for hallux rigidus. Lowell, Jr. was the first podiatrist to ever speak to the Australian Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society.

Romney's Key Goals Include Repeal of Healthcare Reform Law

GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney electrified the crowd at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on Thursday when he vowed to repeal the 2010 healthcare law if he's elected president in November. That promise came when Romney laid out five goals that he and vice presidential nominee Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) plan to tackle if they win the White House this fall.

Those include ensuring that North America is energy independent by 2020; giving citizens the job skills they need and allowing parents to choose where their children go to school; forging new trade agreements; cutting the deficit and balancing the federal budget; and promoting small businesses by reducing taxes, simplifying regulations, and reining in "the skyrocketing cost of healthcare by repealing and replacing Obamacare.”

Source: Jessica Zigmond, Modern Healthcare [8/31/12]

CA Podiatrist Arrested on Suspicion of Molesting 2 Patients

A Torrance podiatrist already facing a lawsuit that alleges he had sex with his own adopted daughter was arrested Thursday on suspicion of molesting two patients in his office. Dr. Arnold Serkin, who works at the West Torrance Foot and Ankle Group, surrendered to detectives at the Torrance police station, following a three-week investigation that began when a patient filed a report alleging he groped her during a foot examination in 2009. During their investigation, Torrance detectives found a second patient who alleges he molested her several years earlier.

Source: Larry Altman, Dailybreeze.com [8/30/12]

No Single Winner in Docs' EHR Rankings

The labels "cheap," "free" and "government-sponsored," respectively, could describe the three top-rated electronic health-record systems in a just-released online survey of more than 21,000 physicians by Medscape, a healthcare news and information portal owned by WebMD. Physicians were asked to rank their systems on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in 12 categories pertaining to issues such as ease of use, value, and reliability.

Topping the list were the relatively low-cost Amazing Charts at 4.22; the advertising-supported Practice Fusion at 4.04; and the Veterans Affairs Department's VistA computerized patient-record system at 3.89. Each of the top three led in at least one of the 12 categories. Amazing Charts was rated easiest to learn with a score of 4.59; Practice Fusion topped the value rankings at 4.75; and the VistA system scored highest in reliability at 4.32.

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [8/30/12]

Query: Checking Medicare Eligibility   
 
Recently, I had several patients who presented their Medicare cards, and later we found out they were in Medicare Advantage Plan or were not eligible. Is there a quick way to check eligibility before the patient comes in to the office? I had heard there may be a way to check on-line, but we cannot locate any site. 
 
Laura R Lefkowitz, DPM, Beverly Hills, CA

RE: Hammertoe Pain in a Smoker (Phillip Graham, DPM)
From: Neil Levin, DPM

Smoking is one issue. Surgically speaking, do not do a 5th metatarsal head resection in a 50 year old. Too many subsequent problems are likely to develop. An oblique Hohmann-type osteotomy at the metatarsal neck with 2.0 screw fixation will reduce the plantar/lateral bowing of the metatarsal to eliminate the plantar lesion, as well as decompressing the MPJ to relieve the digital contracture. Digital arthroplasty should be done as well.

Neil Levin, DPM, Sycamore, IL, DRFEET1@aol.com

RE: Get Rid of the Randomized Trial; Here's a Better Way
From: Marc Katz, DPM

This video suggests a great alternative to the almighty randomized placebo-controlled studies. Are these studies a thing of the past? 

Marc Katz, DPM, Tampa, FL, dr_mkatz@yahoo.com

RE: Hospital-Employment — Is it Causing Healthcare Costs to Skyrocket?
From: Joseph Borreggine, DPM

This article says it all. No matter that Obamacare will suck American healthcare dry - this has been a hidden secret now coming to fruition - an employed physician is a completely different animal than an independent physician. The employed physician sees all patients no matter what insurance they have. Some of their patients may have no insurance and they are still seen because they are not getting paid by the patient, but rather by the hospital.

The employed physician is paid in RVUs or relative value units, and for every procedure or visit performed or provided, a value unit is assigned. Each specialty has a minimum annual RVU quota they must meet to make the hospital profitable. This RVU quota generates an annual minimum salary for...

Editor's note: Dr. Borreggine's extended-length letter appears here.

RE: Checking Medicare Pending Claims (Margaret Portela, DPM)
From: Barrett E Sachs, DPM

Here in Florida, I've been using 877-847-4992 without a problem...follow the prompts..you will need your NPI #, biiling #, and last 5 digits of your tax id #.

Barrett E Sachs, DPM, Plantation, FL, uncletenose@aol.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. 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA

Upstate practice seeking PSR-24/36 trained associate. Full-time position with partnership opportunity. Plans include new office and EHR System. Hospital privileges. Near Hartwell Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Please send CV to palpodiatry@att.net.

ASSOCIATE POSITION- FREDERICK, MD

Office and Hospital based Podiatry group is seeking a highly trained, "high powered" surgical associate to compliment our 4 doctor group. Minimum PSR 36 trained with Rearfoot Reconstructive experience is required. Previous practice experience is preferred. Competitive salary and benefits package along with amazing working environment. Please forward cover letter and CV to drsteinberg@mynewfeet.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SUNNY CENTRAL FLORIDA

Well established two doctor/two office practice seeking an associate leading to partnership. All aspects of podiatry, surgical and non-surgical. Competitive salary with bonus and benefits. Wonderful area to live, raise a family. Close to attractions. Please forward CV to toesrus7@yahoo.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT (GREENWICH, FAIRFIELD, AND NORTH HAVEN)

Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Well-established and progressive offices, including EMR, digital x-ray, vascular and NCV studies, Pinpointe and CO2 lasers, diagnostic ultrasound and electrical stimulation therapy. You can expect a full schedule of patients the day you start, and a very competitive salary. For more info www.greatfootcare.com. Send resume to Dr.Kassaris@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Exciting Opportunity! Associate position. Must be Board Qualified. Joining all Board Certified Doctors in foot surgery and reconstructive rear-foot and ankle surgery. Respond to: Podiatryoffice@doctor.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO

Ohio practice with excellent reputation and patient base seeks to hire a Podiatric Surgeon. The offices are state of the art including Digital X-Ray, EMR, Diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet Vascular Testing, CO-2 Lasers all aspects of DME. The base salary is $120,000 with a bonus structure and benefits also would like to have this individual buy into the practice eventually. Please send CV to: Ohiopodiatrist@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK

Great opportunity to share “state-of-the-art” offices and equipment in mid-town Manhattan and White Plains with Board Certified podiatrist. Out-of-network or participating providers welcome. Please call 212-704-4310 for additional information and fax your CV to 212-704-4311 or email to: ifanelli.hms@verizon.net.

IMMEDIATE OPENING - BAKERSFIELD, CA

Office and hospital-based podiatry group seeks highly trained surgical associate to join us. Prefer surgeon with trauma and Charcot reconstructive experience. Offering competitive salary, CME allowance, health insurance and more. Must be PSR 24/36 trained and must have completed residency. Please forward CV and letter of interest 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 - NEW YORK CITY & QUEENS

High Income Potential. One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a hard-working podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Contact me at: podocare123@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – SUFFOLK COUNTY, LI

Well-rounded podiatry practice. A business-oriented, mature board eligible/certified podiatrist who is not just looking for a job, but a secure future. Equity position possible. 2 hospitals available. No nursing homes. Competitive package. Please send CV to 631-581-0857.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

A busy practice with three offices in Huntington Park, Ontario and San Bernardino is looking to expand and bring on a part-time or full-time podiatrist. Spanish speaking is helpful, but not imperative. For full-time position, a six figured starting salary with benefits and bonuses is offered. Primarily office work. NO NURSING HOMES, HOWEVER! If interested, please send CV toscpodgroup@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - LOWER HUDSON VALLEY, NY

Full-time associate position in well-established multi-office practice. Modern facilities, fully equipped with fluoroscopy, ultrasound, digital x-rays, and vascular testing. Great salary. Must have flexibility with schedule and be comfortable with all aspects of foot care. Send CV to:Tess038@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY

Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. I am looking for an entrepreneurial minded associate who wants to grow and then own part of an already successful practice. If you are the right candidate for this associate position, you will enjoy a competitive compensation package and you will be working with a doctor who is as committed to your success as he is to his own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK

Great opportunity to share “state-of-the-art” offices and equipment in mid-town Manhattan and White Plains with Board Certified podiatrist. Out-of-network or participating providers welcome. Please call 212-704-4310 for additional information and fax your CV to 212-704-4311

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN, NJ

Part-time or-full time. This position can and will lead to purchase of practice if so desired. Well-equipped modern office. Digital x-ray, ultrasound, etc. Individual must be well-trained and be ABPS Qualified/Certified. Must be competent in general foot care and be able to do routine foot surgery without help. Call: 201-986-1900.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: MIDMARK MODEL 646 PODIATRY CHAIR

This blue chair is in excellent condition. Purchased only 14 months ago. Foot pedal is included. Pictures upon request. This chair sells new for around $5,200 (retails for $7,500) Asking $2,900. Seller to pay shipping or local pick-up. Jack Ressler DPM Lauderhill, FL. (954) 650-8637 redwingcrzy@aol.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Retiring from practice. Equipment For sale. Mini x-ray. One year old Ultrasound with MS arterial/venous X-ray plates. Great condition Ritter chairs. Drills, surgical tools. So much. Just ask, I probably have it: Footcare@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PINPOINTE LASER

PinPointe Laser for sale. All accessories included. In service since 2008. Service policy in place, fully transferable. $35,000. tatarb@verizon.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NEW YORK

Located in New York, Capital District (Albany, Schenectady, Troy). Grossing 500k+ consistently with less than 10% surgery. 100% EHR Compliant and steady growth. Great opportunity for a doctor or doctors. Will help in the transition process, long-term lease is available. Please email serious inquiries to: PodiatristDoctor@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NEW ROCHELLE, NY

Flexible terms. Stable location, medical co-op, 24 year practice with a stable established patient base. Great opportunity for a self motivated podiatrist wanting immediate income and future stability. Call 551-574-0776 for details.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Established 40+ year old well-rounded practice of both surgical and non-surgical care with special emphasis on sports medicine. Medicare and BS/private insurance base, no Medical assistance. Needs to transition to a confident well trained individual. Purchase can include building. Contact: podiatrypracticesale@gmail.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 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 13,500 DPM's. 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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