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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,911 Podiatrists Daily
September 03, 2014 #5,154  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2014- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| ANNUAL SURVEY NOW ONLINE - WIN VALUABLE PRIZES | |
Congratulations to Dr. Howard Roesen of Newport News, VA, winner of a one night stay in deluxe accommodations at the Quincy Hotel in Washington, DC, including a welcome cocktail and continental breakfast. We encourage you to participate in this year's important Annual Survey. Completing this anonymous survey provides us with valuable data, which we will publish in the March 2015 issue of Podiatry Management. It also makes you eligible to win thousands of dollars of valuable prizes. Enter by completing this confidential survey and providing your e-mail address in the comments section on the last page of the survey. The earlier you enter, the more chances you have to win.
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7" Android tablet |
This week's prize is a dual-core 7" Android tablet.
This is also your opportunity to vote for the next DPM and Non-DPM inductees into the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame.
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| PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE | |
Too Much of a Good Thing Can Cause Overuse Injuries: MA Podiatrist
Being physically active has long been applauded as an ingredient for good health—but, according to surgeons at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), doing too much too soon can wreak havoc on the feet and cause painful overuse injuries: tendonitis, ruptured tendons, and stress fractures, to name a few. A key strategy for preventing these common injuries is to let your body adjust to increased activity, explains Derrick McKay, DPM, FACFAS, foot and ankle surgeon at Steward – St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, in Brighton, MA.
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Dr. Derrick McKay |
"Our bodies adapt to our level of activity, but if we haven't worked out in a while, not only do our muscles get weaker but also the tendons and bones that support the muscles—and that can lead to injuries," says Dr. McKay. Slowly increasing your level of activity, rather than doing it aggressively, enables the body to adapt and strengthen through a natural process called remodeling.
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Hong Kong Podiatrist Discusses Onychomycosis
Fungal infections are becoming more prevalent in Hong Kong, said Douglas Horne, podiatrist at Quality HealthCare Footcare Medical Services. It was once treated as a problem for the elderly, but younger patients are now getting it. Horne said that as well as hot and humid weather, neglecting personal hygiene also leads to the infection. People are busy in Hong Kong, he said. They always ignore the importance of maintaining nail cleanliness. Even wearing nail polish makes nails more vulnerable to infection.
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Douglas Horne |
He also finds that awareness of nail protection is generally low among Hongkongers, with some only noticing the disease after permanent damage has set in. Onychomycosis rarely gets better on its own, he said. Treatment and good care are needed. He believes that basic everyday care of nails is needed to prevent infection. Make sure to wash meticulously and apply cream to control the humidity of the nail, said the podiatrist, who has been in the practice 29 years.
Source: Trisha Yeung, The Standard [9/2/14]
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| SUNSHINE ACTS NEWS | |
To Disclose CME Payments or Not to Disclose, That is the Question
Physicians and industry groups had until Sept. 2 to make their case that drug- and device-company payments made through accredited continuing medical education programs should not be publicly reported under the Physician Payments Sunshine Act. In a surprise move, the CMS in July proposed removing the reporting exemption for accredited CME payments. Its rule would require that any payments or transfers of value made to physicians who participate in accredited CME programs be disclosed through the Open Payments website. As of Aug. 27, the CMS had received more than 400 public comments related to the CME issue, said Andrew Rosenberg, senior adviser for the CME Coalition, which lobbies for CME providers.
Disclosing CME payments “could discourage physicians from participating as faculty or learners and result in significant negative outcomes for patients,” wrote Dr. Barry Make, a professor at National Jewish Health in Denver. The American Medical Association and the CME Coalition were expected to file comments by the Sept. 2 deadline. Both groups have urged a delay in the release of Sunshine Act data.
Source: Jaimy Lee, Modern Healthcare [8/30/14]
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Pin-Point Pain in Distal Hallux
A 67 year old Asian-American female presented with a 3-week history of distal left great toe local erythema, mild edema, pin-point pain only with pressure (distal aspect great toe), and a slight increased temperature. There were negative plain films (read by myself and a radiologist). She is not responsive to Septra DS. There is no joint pain, no nail issues, and no history of trauma. Her current meds are pravastatin 20mg and synthroid 75mcg. Her health is excellent otherwise and the remainder of the exam was unremarkable. Suggestions?
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Getting Reimbursed for an MLK F1 Kit
A provider of ours has been approached by a salesperson of the MLK F1 kit. Their recommendation is to bill this as J3490 (unclassified drugs). Their sample claim shows a fee of $583 for this combo: lidocaine, Marcaine, Kenalog, and povidone iodine kit. Is anyone using this kit and having any luck with reimbursement? Will the combining of these medications into a pre-packaged kit have a synergistic effect on the reimbursement amount?
Ursula Smith, Lake Mary, FL
Response: Lidocaine and Marcaine are inclusive in whatever surgical procedure these local anesthetics are used. The povidone iodine swabs are considered routine office/routine surgical supplies and are not separately reportable either. The nitrile gloves, the bandage, and the non-sterile 4x4 gauze pad are routine office/surgical supplies that aren't separately reportable either. Literally, the only thing in the "kit" that is separately billable is the Kenalog (J3301 - triamcinolone acetonide, per 10 mg). You can only bill for the number of units of that drug that you actually use, even though the multi-use vial included in the kit includes a total of 200 mg.
It would be totally misrepresenting the billable medications used to attempt to report this "kit" using J3490 (unclassified drugs) since the only thing in the "kit" that is separately billable already has an existing HCPCS code. Additionally, a "sample charge" of $583 is...., well, it's unbelievable. The only separately billable drug that's being used (the Kenalog) reimburses $1.82/10 mg dose. Thank goodness you had the good sense to check into this further. Ignore what the manufacturer is telling you and simply bill for the Kenalog you use. Hopefully the "kit" costs less than it would cost you to separately order the rest of the non-billable supplies.
Joan Gilhooly, CPC, CPCO, Lebanon, OH
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
RE: The Relevance of Podiatric Physicians Providing Nutrition Advice
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH
A low-carbohydrate diet may be better than a low-fat diet for losing weight and reducing risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to an article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. (September 2, 2014) by Lydia A. Bazzano, MD, PhD, MPH, Department of Epidemiology at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana. The author states that what clinicians get out of this study is that nutrition is a huge impact factor on decreasing future risks and that [nutrition information] would make a much bigger impact if [patients] weren't just hearing it from her, but if they were hearing it also from their physician and each member of their healthcare team.
Considering the role of podiatric medicine in public health and its close involvement with patients with peripheral vascular disorders, podiatric physicians should become more involved in providing this advice.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 | |
From: David N. Helfman, DPM
I am not sure about your situation. I can give you some ideas to think about regarding your 2017 decision date. Podiatry has a huge opportunity in the future healthcare system. I wouldn’t throw in the towel. I have never seen more opportunities in my entire career, both locally and nationally, when it comes to the business of medicine. The problem that you and most other physicians have is that their practices are not positioned properly to sell to get maximum value from what they have built over the past 20+ years.
Right now, you need to have a consultant come in who knows this space. It is amazing how much money is sitting on the sidelines waiting for a home. Unfortunately, most practices are so antiquated that it could take a year or more just to get the practice in a position that it can be sold at some level. Beware of calling consultants who are related to you or have little experience in this market. Beware of the negative crowd when asking for advice. Pessimistic people don’t know enough to be so pessimistic!
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL/LEGAL ) | |
From: William Deutsch, DPM
The DPM who contacted his liability insurer over a possible claim that never materialized and found out later his contact was listed as a malpractice event isn't a unique occurrence. Being involved in a 'fender-bender' and notifying your auto insurance carrier of the event, even though no claim is ever filed by anyone and there is no financial loss by your insurer, may also be held against you and raise your rates. This is a case where being pro-active and honest has its own liabilities. The insurance company isn't your friend, confidant, or priest.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEW STORIES) | |
From: George Jacobson, DPM
Why are we not paid interest when we win the appeal? We get interest on other Medicare payments that are delayed? It would seem that this issue would be grounds for a class action lawsuit, as an entire class is damaged. It is especially disconcerting as we lay out, loan, advance or pay for the DME on behalf of the patient and government. Now these [claims] get rubber-stamped denials, attempting to steal these funds that we in good faith advanced for the patient's health and well-being. At least if we got paid interest, there would be a disincentive to continue to rubber-stamp these denials, and instead adjudicate them correctly at the first review. They keep coming up with new reasons for denial.
Recently, we got a denial because the date was at the top of the form, not the bottom. Another new one is that the internal order form to the manufacturer was not signed. When every item on their checklist is met, they find these new creative excuses consistent with the concept of rubber-stamping denials. I have never lost an appeal, but the time is not worth it. Pay us interest and penalize them each time we win the appeal! Then, time is on our side. Perhaps, this is like the VA scandal where employees are getting incentive pay (bonuses) for meeting certain standards, in this case denials?
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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Comes with a spare shoe in case you get a flat? |
Source: sheknow.com
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 3
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Arkansas Podiatric Medical Association Annual Meeting
Little Rock, Arkansas
Friday and Saturday October 3rd and 4th
Includes nationally renowned speakers such as Dr. Brad Bakotic, Rem Jackson, and Chad Schwarz. An Arthrex cadaver lab is included for those interested.
15 hours of CME credits.
$199 before Oct 1st or $275 at the door. $499 for non-APMA members
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
PRACTICE FOR SALE – AUSTIN TX
Motivated seller. Podiatry practice for sale in a prestigious, highly trafficked area in Austin TX. Very busy, extremely well established multiple podiatry office, consistently seeing up to 80 patients daily and performing over 300 surgeries a year. 8 fully equipped treatment rooms, MLS laser and toenail lasers, digital x-rays, etc. Extremely lucrative practice with strong growth potential. Price reduced to sell quickly. Some financing possible. Serious inquiries only to Jeff Rabkin @ 512-293-7559 or jefreetx@hotmail.com
OFFICE FOR SALE - DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA
20 year old practice in a very high traffic area. Serious inquiries only. Email bafamt@aol.com
SPACE TO SHARE - MANHATTAN AND LI
Desirable locations on Upper East Side, Gramercy, the Financial District, and Plainview (North Shore Long Island). Extremity MRI and cat scan available in selected offices. Call 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM
ASC STAFF PRIVILEGES AVAILABLE - NEW JERSEY
Fair Lawn ASC (ambulatory surgical center) is accepting applications for staff privileges. NJ license needed. Patient transportation available in the tri state area. Equity buy-in available. Call 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM
FULL-TIME PODIATRIST WANTED – TEXAS
PSR 24-36 trained multi-dimensional, multi-office group treating a wide range of patients including: forefoot, rearfoot, diabetic wound care, sports medicine and work related injuries. Dallas/Fort Worth Area. Modern offices and equipment. Great opportunity for driven personable individual. Please e-mail: Cover letter, CV, Letters of reference to: cnunez1940@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PART-TIME - NJ
Can you handle a challenge? Associate wanted for amazingly busy practice. Must be enthusiastic, outgoing, surgically trained but conservatively minded. The sky’s the limit. Wonderful environment and great support team. Great pay with potential for expansion Bergen County, NJ. For further information, email to njfootankle@yahoo.com or fax to 201-261-0058.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN MICHIGAN
Associate wanted to join a 4 physician/4 facility organization. Must be residency trained and have great work ethic. You will be assisted by a well-trained staff and have comfort knowing there will be Board Certified Surgeons who have your back. Salary plus incentive. Reply to: paulapmac@me.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY
Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. We are 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 doctors who are as committed to your success as we are to our own. Go to:www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.
LOTS OF OPPORTUNITIES - SOUTHEAST GEORGIA STATESBORO
Willing to live in Rural area in a College town. Beautiful weather year round. Seeking experienced, min of 5 years, Family-oriented podiatrist. If you have a great attitude and you are looking to build a long-term relationship with the practice , Don't miss out on this one. Must be PSR-24 trained. Full range of services including Surgical Suite/ Ambulatory Sx Center in the practice. E-mail cover letter & CV to melissafoot@atlanticfeet.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA
We are looking for a hardworking entrepreneur-minded podiatrist to fill a position. This practice is a Non-surgical clinic based practice. Competitive salary with full benefits available. Respond with CV to e-mail: Podiatryflorida@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN VIRGINIA
Private Orthopaedic Group Practice in seeking rear foot surgically trained podiatrist. Surgical suite on-site; surgical and wound care privileges at 1 hospital. BC or BE required. Base salary + bonus + benefits. Will acquire established practice from podiatrist who is relocating. Email Lindsay McHone, Practice Administrator at lindsayathoc@ntelos.net.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA BAY
Well established, multi-doctor practice in the Tampa Bay area. Preference to PSR 24+/Florida license. High-tech, EMR, digital x-rays, sports medicine, surgery. No NH/HMOs. Excellent hospital privileges available. Choose an area of practice concentration that you are passionate about and enjoy a lifestyle second to none. CV to floridapodiatrist@tampabay.rr.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – WASHINGTON STATE
Well established, multi office busy practice looking for ethical, motivated podiatrist to work in our offices and see residents in assisted living facilities in greater Seattle area. Russian or Spanish speaking preferred but not required. No weekends. Please send C.V. with salary and benefit expectations omega571@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY REGION, NY
Hudson Valley Foot Associates has a great opportunity available! We’re a high-volume, diversified, multi-office group practice utilizing state-of-the-art modalities. Great growth for a personable and motivated DPM. Please visit www.hvfa.com and forward cover letter with CV to info@hvfa.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – PENNSYLVANIA
Great low stress, full time opportunity for a surgically trained podiatrist in a 2-office full spectrum practice. Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia. You are highly motivated, board qualified and have great communication skills. Opportunity for a buy-in/partnership in 2 years. Send cover letter and CV to info@qualityfootcare.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE- FULL TIME/ PART TIME SOUTHERN IL AND EASTERN MO
opportunities to serve residents of long-term care facilities in southern Illinois and eastern Missouri. High earning potential with competitive benefits as part of a 40 year old company for the right candidates. Contact ckestner@preferredpodiatry.com for additional information.
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 15,500 DPMs and Students
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, PM News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 15,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451
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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.
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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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