The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

September 26, 2012 #4,576 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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2014 Hawaii Seminar Location Survey

In the summer of 2014, the APMA Annual Scientific Meeting will be returning to Honolulu, Hawaii. Codingline-PM News is also looking to returning to Hawaii with our [“right after the APMA meeting”] Coding, Reimbursement, & Practice Management Symposium. 
 
We are in the planning stages right now, and would appreciate your input. Click here to respond to two quick questions about the location setting for the Codingline-PM News Hawaii Coding, Reimbursement, & Practice Management Symposium. We will share the responses with you. Thank you.
 
Barry Block, DPM, JD, PM News, Harry Goldsmith, DPM, Codingline

WesternU Supports Nation's Largest Urban Free Clinic

Care Harbor LA is a four-day clinic offering medical, vision, and dental care at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, running Sept. 27-30, 2012. Services will include free dental cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, eye exams, refractions, prescription glasses, medical exams and evaluations, podiatric evaluations, women’s health, screenings, and immunizations. Faculty and students from several WesternU programs will volunteer their services, including the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP), the College of Podiatric Medicine, the College of Pharmacy, the College of Dental Medicine and the College of Allied Health Professions.

Dr. Rebecca Moellmer

WesternU College of Podiatric Medicine Assistant Professor Rebecca Moellmer, DPM, participated in a precursor to Care Harbor and is looking forward to taking students this year. “People really need care, and it’s really nice to provide that for them,” she said. “A lot of people don’t have access. It’s a good learning experience.”

Canadian Podiatrist Discusses Prevention and Treatment of Blisters

Those nasty little bubbles of pain caused by friction seem to go hand-in-hand with sandal season, but they don’t have to, says Dr. Hartley Miltchin. “Avoid anything tight-fitting and don’t break in new shoes, buy them to fit.” 

Dr. Hartley Miltchin

Miltchen advises his patients to shop for shoes in the late afternoon, when feet are already swollen. But when a blister’s already cramping your style, Dr. Miltchin suggests covering it with Polysporin and a bandage until it heals. 

Source: Dana Dougherty Reinke, Elevate Magazine [July 2012]

Flip-Flop Use Leads to Increase in Cases of Plantar Fasciitis: FL Podiatrist 

If Florida's lingering summer has you clinging to flip-flops, maybe even turning them into full-day wear, podiatrists beg you to reconsider. "Because most people wear flip-flops in the summer, we see significant increases in cases of plantar fasciitis," said Dr. Tatiana Wellens-Bruschayt, podiatrist with Central Florida Foot and Ankle in Winter Haven and Lakeland.

Dr. Tatiana Wellens-Bruschayt

"We see a significant amount of people coming in with heel pain because of flip-flops they wear with no arch support."Wellens urges parents to be careful when young children are wearing flip-flops because they are likely to run in them." There's no back so it's easy for them to come off," she said. "We only recommend them for limited use at home or at the beach or on the boat."

Source: Robin Williams Adams, The Ledger [9/24/12]

Three Biomechanics Texts By CA Podiatrist Translated into Spanish

Three previously published books on Foot and Lower Extremity Biomechanics by Kevin A. Kirby, DPM  have now recently been translated and published in Spanish language editions by a group of podiatrists from Barcelona, Spain. 

Biomechanics Texts of Dr. Kevin Kirby translated into Spanish

Dr. Kirby will be introducing these new texts at the 43rd Spanish National Congress in Valladolid, Spain on October 5-7, 2012.

Safeguarding PHI An Issue as Remote Access Increases: Podiatrist

“With so much suspicion and apprehension on the part of patients regarding data breaches, trust is a very difficult thing to attain,” said Michael L. Nelson, DPM, VP of healthcare strategy and business development, Equifax, a credit protection provider. “As more and more providers are using remote access to see PHI, the federal government wants to make sure that the public feels that their information is being safeguarded appropriately.”

A significant aspect of that desire is that the government is counting on the private sector to drive this effort, he said. The government doesn’t want to take the responsibility or mandate how it’s done. Rather, they’d like private industry to identify the main challenges and come up with creative solutions. “The government is going to provide support by means of policy suggestions and facilitate the deployment of interoperable standards.”

Source: Beth Walsh, Health Imaging [9/21/12]

Plain-Language Rules go into Effect for Health Plans, HHS says

Insurance companies must now provide consumers in the individual health market a description of what their plans cover through a summary of benefits and coverage, HHS announced Monday. Required under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the summary for consumers has information about covered health benefits, out-of-pocket costs, and the network of providers.

It also includes a comparison tool called “Coverage Examples” that is modeled after the nutrition-labeling feature for packaged food. Consumers can use it to compare options of what different health plans offer for two common medical conditions: managing Type 2 diabetes, and having a baby. The summary — which consumers will receive in writing and free of charge from their insurance company or employer — is available now for those in the individual market and will be available for those enrollees in group health plans during open-enrollment periods that began Sept. 23.

Source: Jessica Zigmond, Modern Healthcare [9/24/12]

Add Accountability

Rather than assign blame when employees fall short of expectations, focus them on improving their work. Hold a review session to examine the results and what each person could have done differently. Business coach Mike Staver recommends asking these questions:

•  “What did you do or not do that led to these results?”
•  “If you could turn back the clock, what would you do more or less of?”
•  “Of the things you controlled, which do you think contributed to this success/failure?”

Source: Adapted from Leadership Isn’t for Cowards, Mike Staver, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. via Communication Briefings

Query: Global Period - Fractures

I am confused as to whether the global period for a fracture is determined by the fracture CPT code used or by the fracture diagnosis code used - or by either. The reason I ask this is because sometimes a patient will have a stress fracture that is not seen on x-ray, but will show up on an MRI. We may have diagnosed a stress fracture, but want the patient to get an MRI for positive proof. We only bill for an office visit and x-ray, but if we use a diagnosis code for a stress fracture, will that automatically indicate a 90-day global period if the patient returns for any treatment?

Sandy, Office of Allan Hetelson, DPM, Bensalem, PA

Response: Global periods are assigned procedure codes, not diagnosis codes. Billing an office visit with x-ray and a stress fracture ICD-9 code does not carry any global day assignments. You would need to bill the fracture care CPT code.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

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RE: The Passing of Robert Anderson, DPM

On Friday September 21st, Robert Anderson, DPM passed away. Bob and his wife Gail were very close friends of my father and me. He was also a long-term customer of Root Lab. Bob retired a year ago July after 58 years in practice. I met him when he practiced in Milwaukee in the late 1970s. Dr. Anderson’s wife Gail called me today to let me know of Bob’s passing and asked me to share the news of his passing with his colleagues. Among those who Bob felt indebted to for his post-graduate training were Howard Dananberg, DPM for his manipulation techniques and my father Merton for his biomechanical examination and treatment techniques. Bob was a gifted photographer with an Ansel Adams-like style, and was a tribute to his profession as a gifted practitioner.
 
Jeff Root, Meadow Vista, CA

RE: Retirement Options (Joe Borden, DPM)
From: Joel Lang, DPM

In response to saving all the money you can, the rule of thumb is to have 8-10 times your annual income before you even consider having the minimum cushion necessary to retire. Since returns on (safe) investments have bottomed out, the higher end of the scale or higher is preferred. Then you need to look at the possible expenses and savings you will encounter in retirement.

I retired 15+ years ago and never looked back. While I am not an expert in all fields, I do have some experiences and ideas.

With regard to activities – there is no doubt that...

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

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PINPOINTE LASER

PinPointe Laser for sale. All accessories included. In service since 2008. Service policy in place, fully transferable. $30,000. tatarb@verizon.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET

Lightly used: PadNet cuffs, automatic inflation system and cart for sale. asking $7,000. Provide vascular testing in office with ABI and PVR readings. KLAMDPM@hotmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - WASHINGTON, DC

Brand new, street level. Outstanding downtown location. Sell with all new equipment and furniture. Nomir Laser and shockwave machine. Priced for fast sale. 202 669 7795

PRACTICE AND EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - QUEENS, NY

Podiatry practice for sale 25 years. Queens location. Solid patient base. Spanish speaking an asset. excellent opportunity. Supplies and new podiatry chair also available. Email:hsd18@aol.com.

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

SPACE AVAILABLE - SO. CAL

Office to sublet and share in El Monte. Ideal for satellite office or part-time practitioner.  Potential for group practice. Chiudpm@yahoo.com. 562 307-5589

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.COM516 476-1815.

ASSOCIATE WANTED / PRACTICE FOR SALE - BROOKLYN NEW YORK

28 yr old established practice looking for an ethical podiatrist to join and take over practice. Good location. Excellent opportunity. Asking 35 K. Also available equipment for sale chairs, whirlpools, x-ray machines, ultrasounds, supplies, etc. Contact ecdoc1@yahoo.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

Group practice desires  practitioner that brings his/her good  medical skills to the table but needs practice management experience to complete the package. Only 1 hour from Manhattan Part-time employment would be considered to start. E-mail mhudes@footcaregroup.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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - MANHATTAN

In-network podiatrist needed for busy state-of-the-art offices in Manhattan. Offices are located near Penn and Grand Central Station. 5+ years experience only, and an in-network doctor for most insurances. Please forward your information and CV to:roni@myfcny.com

AVAILABLE POSITION – OSSINING, NY

Open Door is a Level-3 Patient Centered Medical Home & community health center is looking for a PT BC/BE podiatrist interested in working w/ a diverse patient population in our Ossining site. 2-3 days/wk. flexible hrs. Spanish-speaking a plus! forward resume to:nrodriguez@odfmc.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HAMPTON BAYS / LI, NY

Growing Suffolk County podiatric practice seeking part-time associate. Could lead to future partnership opportunity. Must be highly motivated, have excellent communications skills, be flexible and have exceptional clinical abilities. We are a 16+ year well respected practice. Fax resume to: (718) 723-5627 or e-mail: Wendymakarowitz@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

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 - CENTRAL NEW JERSEY

Established, successful practice with multiple locations in Central Jersey seeking FT/PT Associate. PSR 24/36. Please forward CV to rpg145@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MASSACHUSETTS

Busy multi-office podiatry practice looking to expand. Need extremely energetic dedicated individual. Must be PSR 12-24 trained, EMR, laser, vascular testing the works. Must have sense of humor. MA License, NH License A+! Surgery, sports medicine, pediatrics, shoe store. Please send resumes to resumesent11@comcast.net.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 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 14,000 DPMs. 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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