The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,601 Podiatrists Daily

September 11, 2013 #4,866 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Editor’s note: On this, the 12th anniversary of 9/11, we continue our proud tradition of publishing the following note from the editor, which was published in PM News on 9/12/01 and circulated via the Internet throughout the world.

It is just after 3 AM here in New York City and I simply can't sleep. Looking out the window of my bedroom on the 17th floor, there is an unobstructed view of the Manhattan skyline. I search again for the once familiar sight of the two tall white buildings that marked the lower end of the skyscraper-filled island. All I see are some eerie search lights of the rescue crews.

Like everyone else, I have been in shock all day, particularly since I witnessed in real-time the morbid views of the second plane hitting the World Trade Center and the sequential collapse of both towers.

World Trade Center 9/11/01

The gamut of emotions runs from shock, fear, sadness, to anger. Barely one half-century after the Holocaust, despite all our technological advances, man remains uncivilized. The realization sets in that the terrorists who committed this crime could have and still could set off a nuclear bomb, killing millions. The safety and security we have taken for granted in America is and will never be the same.

My phone has been ringing all day. Family and friends call to determine that everyone is safe. My mom calls to tell me my brother was scheduled to be at the WTC at 9 AM and was at the subway station when the first plane hit. Had the plane hit five minutes later, he would have been on an elevator headed for certain death.

Unfortunately, many thousands were not so lucky, including many employees of Blue Cross/Blue Shield, which only a few years ago moved from midtown to this location. There will be many tears shed as the names of those murdered in this horrific disaster become known, many unnecessary funerals to attend. So many innocent lives lost for no reason. So many families destroyed.

Later this morning, my wife and I will donate blood and attempt to do what we can in this time of crisis. We know the entire podiatric community will collectively pray for those affected by this catastrophe and provide whatever support is needed.

Congratulations to Robert Greene, DPM of Worcester, MA, winner of a free registration for the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management's (AAPPM) Fall Conference at the Lago Mar Resort in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, November 7-10 (Value $645).  We encourage you to participate in this year's important annual survey at podiatrym.com/survey Completing this anonymous survey provides us with valuable data, which we will publish in the February 2014 issue of Podiatry Management. It also makes you eligible to win thousands of dollars of valuable prizes. Enter by completing this confidential survey. The earlier you enter, the more chances you have to win. Please complete the entire survey.

Attendees at AAPPM Meeting

This week's prize is a free registration for the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management's (AAPPM) 2014 Midwinter Conference,  February 27 - March 2, 2014 at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott, (Value $645).

This is also your opportunity to vote for the next DPM and Non-DPM inductees into the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame.

NY Podiatrist's Brain Tumor Co-payment Assistance Program Hits $1 Million Mark!

The Musella Foundation’s co-payment assistance program helps brain tumor patients get access to the treatments they need. Qualifying patients are each awarded $5,000 per year to help pay for the expensive treatments they need. The idea started after Dr. Al Musella’s dad was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme – ironically two years after the Musella Foundation was founded. The out-of-pocket expenses - after insurance - for his father’s treatments were so high that his father refused to take needed medications, thinking he didn't want to use up his savings and leave his family broke – since he was no longer able to work. The family had to purchase the drugs and tell him they got free samples in order to get him to take them.

Dr. Al Musella

Dr. Musella investigated ways to help people in this situation and created the “Brain Tumor Co-payment Assistance Program.” The program started in December of 2011 and recently approved their 200th patient, for a total of $1 million in direct aid to patients! This amount represents monies allocated to patients.

UK Podiatrist Creates FS6 Compression Foot Sleeve

In 2012, a new concept was born and has been taking the sports and healthy lifestyle market by storm. This concept is thin, comfortable, lightweight supports that offer therapy and prevention to many of the typical conditions of the extremities. These conditions come both from sports activities and aging. Essentially the problem was how to interest and engage the competitive and diverse UK sports retail market in the UK with these products. This gave Barry Wright, the Sales and Marketing Director of ING Source Ltd. the aforementioned challenge.

FS6 Compression Foot Sleeve

Just because FS6® was successful in the USA, did not necessarily mean he could replicate this story in the UK and then sit back and watch the sales numbers climb. In addition, as a former podiatrist, Barry knew that common foot care issues (such as heel pain) are seen and discussed with customers and staff in sports shops every day, but that, in general, staff and management do not have access to sufficient skills to deal with the subject in the same manner as a trained podiatrist would.

Source: Keith Marshall, Sports Insight [9/10/13]

Turn Down Employee or Patient Solicitations

School is starting and the holidays will be here before you know it. For the next several months, you might be bombarded with requests to purchase items for patients' kids’ fundraisers or to donate to various charities. Don’t feel pressured to spend your hard-earned dollars, but also don’t duck people’s requests or make up excuses or lies to avoid opening your wallet. Instead, directly—but politely—respond with one of the following:

If you are worried about looking like a scrooge. “Not this time. I’ve already allocated my charity dollars for the year.”
If you are unfamiliar with or untrusting of the charitable organization. “No. I don’t donate to organizations I haven’t done my own research on.”
If you just don’t want to spend your money that way. “I’m really not interested, but thanks for asking.”

Note: A direct but friendly “No, thank you” is often enough to end the solicitation. However, if the requester persists, say “Again, no. Please don’t ask me again.”

Source: Adapted from “Dealing With a Coworker Soliciting for Charity,” askamanager.org via Communication Briefings

Query: Recurring Lesions

Approximately 5 years ago, this 50 year old female had “corns” surgically removed from under the bottom of both of her 3rd toes on both feet. They soon recurred. She first saw me about 3 years ago for this. She was tired of trying to keep these painful lesions trimmed down, and wanted surgery. Because of the size of them at that time, I did a bipedicle flap on one and was able to do a direct closure on the other. Pathology reported microscopic evaluation as “clavi” x2. These lesions are very symmetrical and there are no other derm problems elsewhere. There are no systemic diseases that are contributory.

Recurring Lesions

The lesions returned - again bilaterally symmetrical and identically. I started as though there was an intrinsic muscle (FDB) that was symmetrically plantarflexing the proximal phalanx head with excess pressure. Specific off-loading was not effective in stopping the continuing pain resulting from the hyperkeratosis. Therefore, we decided to again attempt surgery. The goals of the surgery were to lengthen the FDB to the digit, fuse the PIPJ, which was hypermobile and made the head plantarly prominent. This was successfully done and the lesions no longer have pressure on them. Guess what? They are back! Constructive critique is welcomed!

Query: Effective Treatment for Hyperhidrosis

I'm looking for "pearls" or treatments of hyperhidrosis. I recommended  antiperspirants and Drysol, but I'm looking for something actually effective for these patients.

Billie  A. Bondar, DPM, Rochester, NH

Query: Fasciotomy Using the Topaz Technique

I performed a fasciotomy on a patient's left foot using the Topaz technique. I billed CPT 28008 (fasciotomy, foot and/or toe). I was told by my billing company that I should use unlisted CPT 28899 when performing a fasciotomy using the Topaz technique. Any assistance in clarifying this would be appreciated.

Damian Dieter, DPM, South Bend, IN

Response: There is no CPT code for the Topaz procedure. Your billing company was providing you with the best option, CPT 28899 "unlisted procedure, foot or toe."

Contact the health plan or check their medical policy to see if they consider the procedure/technique experimental and investigational. If so, it will be a cash procedure.

David J. Freedman, DPM. CPC, Silver Spring, MD

Codingline subscription information can be found here

APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription

RE: Gangrene S/P Cast Complication (Khurram Khan, DPM)
From: Name Withheld (FL)

I would like to weigh in on this case since I have actually seen the patient. I tend to disagree with some of the answers provided and think they are more of a textbook solution. This foot has profound vascular compromise. This is a 16 year old with gangrene to the toes, with 3 weeks of no treatment. Perhaps at the very early stages, some of these treatments may have been appropriate but that is no longer the case.

So first off, this poor child should have been admitted and had an immediate vascular consult 3 days post-op when his toes were purple in...

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

RE: NY Podiatrist Roughed Up by Former Boyfriend (Jennifer Barlow, DPM)
From: Sloan Gordon, DPM

I really didn't want to enter the fray about what gets reported on PM News, however, I know that Dr. Block is very careful to report factual news that often displays regrettable behavior by some of our colleagues. I believe the point of the 'mention' was to simply state the news and the facts. I had never heard of Dr. Splichal and when I Goggled her, I was a bit shocked. After all, her Google page looks like a PR piece for a model. 

I personally am a staunch defender of women's rights and abhor domestic violence, but you can't have it both ways. You can't have your picture all over the place in salacious poses and costumes and not expect that your every movement will be scrutinized, even by the paparazzi. I think PM News was simply stating the facts.

Sloan Gordon, DPM, Houston, TX, sgordondoc@sbcglobal.net

RE: NY Podiatrist Roughed Up by Former Boyfriend (Jennifer Barlow, DPM)
From: Tip Sullivan, DPM

I do not know the female New York podiatrist involved here and I wish her no disrespect. She may be innovative and new in her approach to how she is perceived by the public. Certainly all publications are not free of any bias, but they do have the duty to at least publish the truth. Unfortunately, sometimes the truth hurts.
 
Tip Sullivan, DPM, Jackson, MS, tsdefeet@msfootcenter.net

RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day

What David's wife wore?

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 POSITIONS - CHICAGO

Chicago practice has 2 part-time house calls positions available. You'll make at least $3,000 per months working your own hours. Full logistical support provided. Great moonlighting  opportunity for 2nd and 3rd year residents -IL license required; we'll provide malpractice insurance . Contact dpms2@hotmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Looking for reliable, honest, and motivated podiatrists to join our group to assist with house calls to patient’s home residences and  group facilities. Candidate must be willing to drive throughout the San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. Part/Full time, flexible hours, independence, great compensation! Please email resume to: homefootcare@hotmail.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 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Podiatrist for practice in long-term care facilities. Facilities include Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living and Board and Care homes.  Professionally managed. Email interest and CV to: ZbubblesZ@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - MANHATTAN 

Excellent opportunity to join a Midtown Park Ave practice. Surgery only. You need to do forefoot surgery well. Must be ABPS board qualified or certified. CV to mailto:nealblitz@yahoo.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.

PODIATRIST WANTED - MN

We are seeking highly motivated, experienced and enthusiastic associate’s to join our successful, well-established practice, we currently have 6 locations and plans to add more, throughout Minnesota. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care, sports medicine and general podiatry. This opportunity offers an excellent salary, bonus and % commission with benefits, also an opportunity to become an associate down the road. PPMR/PSR required. Email CV to kpepple@midwestpodiatrycenters.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 - 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 - 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 - MARYLAND/SUBURBAN DC

Busy 3 doctor practice seeking highly motivated, hard working associate. PSR 24/36 trained with opportunity for partnership.  Hospital privileges, ER call, in office ASC, etc. Will consider residents completing their program to begin work July 1, 2014 or sooner. E-mail CV to mlmltm@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHWEST, FL

R U a SuperStar? PM&S36 or PSR24. Comfort W Recon surgery. Hardworking w/o Ego. Excellent salary, benefits, chance at partnership. ABPS BC/BQ required RRA. Send CV, recommendations, and why you are a superstar. email: mny1029@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - LONG BEACH, CA

Immediate opening available for a DPM with 2 or 3 year residency . Prefer some work experience, but with the right qualifications and can-do attitude, will consider newly out of residency. Full-time needed, must be willing to work hard and provide excellent care. We have a very fast paced, busy practice and lots of great patients. Please send your resume/c.v. and a brief note citing what you are looking for in your career to: Mil2RN@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ARIZONA

Immediate opening for a full time podiatrist in a rapidly expanding multi-office practice in the suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona. Compensation is performance based with patients scheduled from day 1 but must be entrepreneurial and an ambitious individual who can provide excellent care and expand already existing patient base. Should be familiar and competent in podiatric surgery, biomechanics, trauma, PRP, wound care, and ultrasound diagnostics. Send CV to ArizonaFootAnkle@gmail.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

PRACTICES WANTED - PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL

We are looking to purchase a active practice in Palm Beach County .  Please contact Ian S.Goldbaum Podfather5@aol.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MIAMI, FL

Established Medicare base, no HMO's with tremendous room for growth. 30 year practice, current doctor relocating. Office renovated and fully equipped with digital x-ray. Ready for new practitioner or group to take over. Perfect satellite, 2nd office or great for new grad looking to start out. dpmoffice10@gmail.com

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

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – USED PINPOINTE LASER

Used Pinpointe Laser for Sale! $19,500 Firm. Please call 202-255-6236 or email cosmedresources@verizon.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.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,500 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 14,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $119 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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