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The Voice of Podiatrists
September 13, 2006 #2,688 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2006- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.
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Your Patients Will be Amazed at SureFit's UltraLITE Shoe Collection
Patients are always complaining that their diabetic shoes are too heavy. SureFit’s UltraLITES are amazing patients across the country. The UltraLite collection provides super light weight without sacrificing excellent support and control. Lightweight materials and special construction combine to create diabetic shoes that are so light they feel almost weightless.
Exceptional Fit, Quality and Comfort Priced for Enhanced Profitability
See the difference SureFit diabetic footwear will make in your practice. Call today for a FREE sample of the amazing UltraLITE.
Toll Free 800 298 6050 or visit http://www.surefitlab.com/
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
NH Podiatrist Diagnoses Ewing’s Sarcoma
Holly Young of the University of New Hampshire volleyball team recently won her battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of children’s bone cancer, after a lung scan she was deemed “cancer free” on August 21, 2006.
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Dr. Kenneth Leavitt |
Kenneth Leavitt, a podiatrist at Baptist Hospital was the first to discover the tumor in her leg after taking x-rays and set up an appointment with Dr. Mark Gebhardt, the chief of orthopedic oncology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Source: Univ of New Hampshire Athletics [9/12/06]
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UNITED HEALTHCARE POLICY RE: ESWT
WHAT YOU CAN DO
As of October 2006, United HealthCare (UHC) will no longer cover ESWT. Many of you use ESWT and your patients have benefited by ESWT since its FDA approval 4 years ago. To find out more about fighting UHC’s policy decision click on www.unitedshockwave.com/UHC to see how you can help change this misguided policy decision.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
For information about ESWT and/or United Shockwave Therapies, visit our website at www.unitedshockwave.com or call 847.544.5867
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PRACTICE MANANGEMENT |
NC Podiatrist Uses Biometric Time Clock
Punching the finger clock It’s a trick as old as the punch clock: you want to sneak out of work early and, promising to return the favor in the future, ask a co-worker to punch out for you at the end of the shift. No one is the wiser. Except, that is, for employers who realize they are losing many hours of productivity they are paying for.
Now many of them are ripping out their punch clocks and installing time and attendance systems that require a fingerprint scan. Clarence Stewart, a podiatrist in Raleigh, NC, installed a such a system three years ago for his practice, which employs 24 people in four offices, replacing another PC-based system that required an ID number.
Dr. Stewart says his workers’ time sheets now reflect the hours they have worked more accurately. “I’m in a big practice, and some people work here for a long time and they become friends,” he says. “They know how to beat the system. But no one can fake a fingerprint.”
Source: David S. Joachim, The New York Times, [9/12/06]
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New Custom Diabetic Inserts For Only $22 A Pair
Orthofeet is glad to announce its new custom diabetic inserts, which received SADMARC Code verification A5513. These custom inserts are fabricated by the most advanced computerized system, with arch filler and forefoot accommodations, for superior support and protection.
- Now you can offer your patients state of the art prefab and custom inserts along with the best fitting diabetic shoes, and save: Stretchable Shoes - $42.00 a pair; Leather Shoes - $48.00 to $52.00 a pair; Prefab Inserts - $8.95 a pair; Custom Inserts - $22.00 a pair;
100% Medicare Compliant http://www.orthofeet.com/ ----------------- 800-524-2845
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HEALTHCARE NEWS |
Private Health Plans Growing at Fastest Rate Ever: McClellan
According to CMS Administrator Mark McClellan, enrollment in private health plans is growing at the fastest rate ever -- 26% in 2006. About half the growth is in HMOs and PPOs, while the other half is in fee-for-service plans, he said. McClellan also said the federal government is saving $26 monthly for each beneficiary enrolled in a Medicare managed care plan, which amounts to billions of dollars in annual savings.
Source: CQ HealthBeat via American Health Line [9/12/06]
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MEETINGS /COURSES
Want to Know Everything About Heel Pain?
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The American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine (ACFAOM) is launching its new Clinical Encounter Series in two unique and rewarding CME programs on Heel Pain – October 28 in San Francisco; November 11 in Miami. ACFAOM Member registration fee - $195 – students & residents are free. Recognized national faculty will engaged participants in a dynamic exchange of ideas and hands-on workshops – 8 CE contact hours. Mark your calendar and register now at http://www.acfaom.org/heelpain.shtml
For a list of all meetings go to: www.podiatrym.com/meetings.pdf
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QUERIES |
Query: Shoe Store Attached to Office
I am building a new office with an 1,300 sq. ft. extra building. Can someone with experience on having a full-service foot products/shoe store and/or foot spa attached to their office provide some advice and guidelines.
Hal Ornstein, DPM, Howell, NJ, toetoe@optonline.com
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PM SURVEY WEEKLY CONTEST
Congratulations to Richard Belli, DPM, of Woodside, NY, winner of last week’s survey contest, who will receive a Silver Subscription to Codingline.com
This week’s prize is a subscription to CodinglinePRINT (Value $195.00) Subscribers of CodinglinePRINT Online have the opportunity to read the latest issues, search through past issues (from 2001 to the present), and print copies. For subscription information visit www.codingline.com
To enter, simple complete our practice survey at www.podiatrym.com and send your name, address, and question #45 from the survey to bblock@podiatrym.com. All entries are eligible for our grand prize of a one-week Windjammer Caribbean Cruise. Don’t forget to vote for next year’s inductee into the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame. This year, we’ve opened a new category for non-podiatrists.
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CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: PA’s as Assistant Surgeons
Can you bill out physician assistants as assistant surgeons? If so, how? Do you sign them up with the insurance companies?
Jim Malone, DPM, Bakersfield, CA
Response: Physician assistants (PA) are that and that only. They are licensed in their state to perform their duties under the direction/supervision of a physician. As far as I am aware, podiatrists are not categorized as physicians, in most states, for this purpose. Therefore, not only shouldn't you bill for their service, but they may not even be licensed to work with you.
Brian Kashan, DPM, Baltimore, MD
Codingline subscription information can be found at http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm
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PODIATRY MANAGEMENT'S AFFORDABLE ONLINE CME
You can Earn 15 CPME-Approved CME credits Online for only $129 http://www.podiatrym.com/cme.cfm Choose any or all of over 20 CME articles posted You Can Now Take Tests and Print Your CME Certificates Online
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RESPONSES / COMMENTS |
RE: Codingline is NOT The Coding Institute From: Harry Goldsmith, DPM
It has come to our attention that some podiatrists seem to be confused regarding what are two different and independent companies, Codingline and The Coding Institute (Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert). Please be advised that Codingline is not the same company as The Coding Institute (Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert) nor is it affiliated in any way with The Coding Institute (Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert) nor does it share, literally or philosophically, the business and subscription practices of The Coding Institute (Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert). Harry Goldsmith, DPM, CEO, Codingline
RE: Scope of Practice Legislation From: Daniel Alan Chaskin, DPM
NY and other states have a problem of not being licensed to treat the foot and ankle. This situation can be changed. If every podiatrist had ten patients telephone their state representative and express their support of legislation allowing podiatrists to treat the foot and ankle, it would be an effective approach towards changing state law. This would actually be more effective than just having podiatrists contact their state representatives, which could be viewed as self-serving. Naturally, podiatrists would need to educate patients to the fact that podiatrists are trained and, in other states, have the ability to treat the foot and ankle, and even the leg.
For example, in NY, if the patients of podiatrists were to contact their state representatives in support of Assembly bill 4697 and Senate bill 6789 it would go a long way to securing passage. Daniel Alan Chaskin, DPM, Ridgewood, NY, podiatrist1@optonline.net
RE: Volunteers Sought for Avon Walk for Breast Cancer NY Podiatry Team
For 2 days and 39.3 miles, over 3,000 people will participate in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer New York. Their bodies and their feet may take a beating, but their spirit will inspire you. Volunteers are sought to provide podiatry services to support these amazing walkers raising millions of dollars for breast cancer treatments, research, education and awareness. Tend to sprains, strains, and blisters – Volunteer your time and Join our Podiatry Crew for the weekend of Oct 7-8. For more information and to register Call 212-586-8720 or e-mail crew.newyork@avonwalk.org
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CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASSOCIATE POSITON - SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE/ NORTH GEORGIA
Immediate position available or will wait for the right individual. Unique practice opportunity in growing multi-physician/multi-office practice. Well established/cutting edge within the medical community. Close proximity to hospitals as well as opportunity to become involved with a free standing podiatric surgical center. Must be BQ/BC. Minimum PSR/24. Competitive salary, bonus structure and benefits. E-mail CV to afcjen@hotmail.com
EQUIPMENT WANTED - X-RAY Machine
I am looking for a used x-ray unit, preferably no older than 15 years. EXCEL units or units of this type are appropriate for my needs. If you have a unit, with or without the stand, please e'mail a picture and relevant information to me at drkarendpm@aol.com I can also be reached at 619-892-3549. Shipping would be to Southern CA.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW ENGLAND
Opportunity in growing New England practice. Well established and respected practice with large office and surgicenter, latest technology, great staff, loyal patients and solid referral base. Close proximity to hospitals, full scope practice. Opportunity for partnership. Prefer 24 month PSR with clinical practice experience or an experienced doctor looking to improve their situation. E-mail CV and contact info to: Footdoc-office@usa.net
ASSOCIATE WANTED - SOUTH FLORIDA
Miami-Dade and SW Ft. Lauderdale, well established surgical practice needs part-time podiatrists to assist in surgical cases and patient volume. Email response to podfootdocs@aol.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE/ASSOCIATE/PARTNERSHIP - WASHINGTON, DC
A 26 year old practice for sale in hospital's attached medical building. Fully equipped. All aspects of podiatric medicine;surgery. Large diabetic practice with wound care clinic. Large referral base with loyal patients. Charcot, forefoot, rearfoot, orthopedics. Residency required for privileges. Moving but will stay for transition. Associateship until purchase. Will finance sale with adequate down-payment. Serious inquires only. Contact scottr0666@yahoo.com
SEEKING ASSOCIATE POSITION IN TEXAS, DFW AREA
PSR-24 trained podiatrist seeking a FT associate position with possibility of future partnership. Trained in all aspects of podiatric medicine including forefoot and rearfoot surgery, and diabetic limb salvage. Email: fixfeet@hotmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION-INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR – FLORIDA
Florida License / Medicare and Medicaid numbers in effect and active. High income potential for hard working, ethical and honest DPM great for semi-retired. Transportation a must. FAX CV or Resume to 1-727-785-4697.
HOUSE CALL PRACTICE FOR SALE – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
House Call practice for sale which includes approx. 400 patients and continued referrals. Perfect for solo practitioner. Extremely easy and profitable practice to run. Yearly gross of over $200K. Current DPM is retiring. Financials will also be provided. Please contact ccipinc@ccipinc.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW ENGLAND
Terrific Opportunity Now Available in growing New England practice. Well established and respected practice with new, large office space, latest technology, very helpful staff, loyal patients and solid referral base. Close proximity to hospitals with modern surgical suites. Opportunity for shared ownership. Prefer 24 month PSR with clinical practice experience or an experienced doctor looking to improve their situation. E-mail CV and particulars to NEAFC3@aol.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE – SOUTHERN INDIANA
Established, respected solo podiatry practice immediately available in scenic southern Indiana. Fully equipped attractive building conveniently located on an active corner with great staff, loyal patients and excellent referral base. Includes relationships with local assisted living and nursing homes. Practice and building available for $200,000. Serious inquiries preferred e-mail to: dhall@cmbuck.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - BERKELEY CALIFORNIA
Well-established office in professional medical building; Biomechanics, Geriatrics and General Podiatry; Excellent growth potential for surgery; Payor base MC, PPO, and self-pay (NO HMOs); Reliable referrals from local physicians; Electronic billing in-house; Transition terms negotiable. Send letter of intent to: foot4sale@sbcglobal.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION - AUSTIN TX MOBILE PRACTICE
Full or part-time; Texas license. Fine working conditions with excellent support staff and pay. Mobile podiatry clinic and House calls. http://www.footmobile.com Fax CV 210.495.6484
WEEKLY SPECIAL - One week of ads (6x) for only $75
PM Classified Ads Reach over 8,500 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 8,000 DPM's. Write bblock@podiatrym.com for details. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451 dekagan@aol.com
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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.
| Guidelines |
- To Post a message, send it to: bblock@podiatrym.com
- Notes should be original and may not be submitted to
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RE: (Topic)
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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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