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PMNews
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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 18,478 Subscribers Daily
September 27, 2018 #6,274  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2018- 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. John Brummer of NY, NY, winner of last week's prize of a $100 Macy's Gift Card. 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 2019 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. LAST WEEK TO ENTER.
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Mirabeau Inn & Spa |
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 IN THE NEWS | |
Foot Drop Increases the Fall Risk: FL Podiatrist
According to podiatrist David Raynor, DPM, "Foot drop is a condition where a person cannot adequately flex their foot and/or toes toward their body in gait. This increases the risk of falling as the inability to flex up at the ankle or toes may cause the toe or foot to catch as the foot swings forward in gait for the next step. "Foot drop is almost always a neurologic issue; however, untreated tendon ruptures of the great toe or ankle can also lead to foot drop. Stroke, MS, spinal injury, compartment syndrome, and neuropathy are some of the conditions that may result in foot drop.
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Dr. David Raynor |
Physical therapy may help individuals initially, but assistive devices are necessary long-term to try to help reduce fall risk and improve quality of life. Below-knee ankle foot orthoses (BKAFO) are devices made from thermoplastic or graphite materials to help keep the foot at 90 degrees to the ankle," says Dr. Raynor.
Source: Citrus County Chronicle [9/25/18]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
DE Podiatrist Joins Brandywine Podiatry
Brandywine Podiatry has announced the addition of Matthew Waxman, DPM to its expanding practice in Delaware. Dr. Waxman graduated from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. He completed his residency at Cooper University Hospital and received PMSR/RRA surgical training.
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Dr. Matthew Waxman |
Brandywine Podiatry is the largest podiatry practice in Delaware, treating all aspects of foot and ankle pathology at 5 office locations and serving 3 hospitals.
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| MACRA UPDATE | |
CMS Finds Errors, Makes Corrections to MIPS Payments
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has discovered it made mistakes calculating payments to some physicians in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS). In a notification to providers, CMS said it discovered errors through its targeted review process, which provides the opportunity for physicians and other clinicians to request the agency review their MIPS payment adjustment factors if they suspect there is an error with their 2019 payment calculation.
“Based on these requests, we reviewed the concerns, identified a few errors in the scoring logic, and implemented solutions. The targeted review process worked exactly as intended, as the incoming requests quickly alerted us to these issues and allowed us to take immediate action,” CMS said in the notice.
Source: Joanne Finnegan, Fierce Healthcare [9/26/18]
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| FROM PM's CURRENT ISSUE | |
Several times a week, PM News posts an entire article from a recent issue of our partner, Podiatry Management Magazine. Please note that the views expressed in Podiatry Management Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of PM News or Barry Block.
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Today's Featured Article |
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
3 Low Tech Ways to Boost Collections - Part 3
3. Skip the robocalls - Automated reminders can save time, but they might cost a practice in other ways. It may be beneficial to have someone from the office call with appointment reminders. When a human being calls, he or she can say something like, “I just wanted to remind you of your appointment Thursday. Be sure to bring your insurance information and co-pay when you come.”
Barbie Hays, CPC, coding and compliance strategist for the AAFP, acknowledges that a recording could communicate the same message, but it probably won’t have the same effect. It’s far easier to ignore a reminder from a recording than from a friendly person whom you might know or see in the next few days. Plus, a live call is a chance for patients to ask any questions in advance to make sure prior authorizations are completed and information is up-to-date. ,
Source: Avery Hurt, Physicians Practice [9/17/18]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Place of Service Code
The scenario is this: Patients are being seen at a senior adult apartment building. This is not an assisted living facility. There is no financial arrangement with management to rent this space. Residents sign their names on a sheet of paper with 10 minute time slots. Residents are seen individually in this setting and bills are submitted to Medicare. The initial bill will contain an E&M and procedure codes. What is the correct place of service code for this?
Richard Simmons, DPM, Rockledge, FL
Response: This does not sound like a type of “facility”. I think you are seeing these patients in their “home”. I suggest you use POS 12 – Location, other than a hospital or other facility, where the patient receives care in a private residence.
Jeffrey D Lehrman, DPM, Fort Collins, CO
For information on Codingline subscriptions, click here
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| QUERIES (NON-CLINICAL) | |
Query: Podiatry's Adjusted Gap Difference
A dentist friend forwarded this chart to me asking why there is so much of a difference between podiatry and the other health professions.
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Adjusted Gap in Real Annual Earnings |
I do not know. Any ideas?
Neil Scheffler, DPM (Retired), Baltimore, MD
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC EDUCATION) | |
RE: Podiatry Schools Should Accept DAT Results
From: W. David Herbert, DPM,JD
I have met several dentists who told me that they would have probably applied to podiatry school if they had known more about the profession. I understand that almost 15,000 applicants take the dental aptitude test every year. I also understand that less than 50% of the applicants to dental school actually gain admission.
Maybe the profession could consider accepting the dental aptitude test (DAT) results for admission to podiatric medical school. Just by having podiatric medical schools as an option to send scores to would put podiatric medical schools in contact with students who could eventually become podiatric medical school students.
W. David Herbert, DPM, JD, Billings, MT
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) | |
From: Paul Jones, DPM, Lancing Malusky, DPM
Is it possible to get clarification as to this post? Why was the neurologist so adverse to Metanx? Was it the B6? The L-methyl folate? The B12? Why is Metanx “the worst thing you can take?” Is it the attitude of an all-knowing neurologist? Is it legitimate? What are the studies?
Paul Jones, DPM, Portland, OR
I recently developed type 2 diabetes. My current A1c level went from 6.2 to 5.3. More importantly though, I requested Metanx for night time foot neuropathy from my PCP (who had never heard of it). The non-generic Metanx resolved my night pain. The A1c change may be coincidental, but the resolution of my neuropathy is not.
Lancing Malusky, DPM, Kettering, OH
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (BILLING AND CODING) | |
RE: Fraudulent Billing of CPT 11305, 11306 and 11307
From: Name Withheld
I am an RN with 25 years of O.R. experience working with orthopedic and podiatric surgeons, and I work part time for a DPM. I’m also a certified coder and fully understand proper billing practices. I make a majority of my income as an outside consultant for many insurance companies when there is suspected fraud. The past two years have been keeping me busy reviewing literally thousands of claims for procedure codes CPT 11305, 11306, and 11307 billed by DPMs.
I have reviewed thousands of these claims with a committee which includes two DPMs and a dermatologist. Over the past two years, we did not review a single claim sent by a DPM where the code was justified. These codes are for a...
Editor's note: This extended-length letter can be read here.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
From: Tip Sullivan, DPM
In my home state, we do not have an independent podiatry board (yet). I have been involved in podiatry issues at the medical board level for many years. There are some issues when dealing with the board that are not fair - like the fact that you are not allowed to know the accuser or allowed to look at their record on you. That takes a court order and the court will most likely side with the board.
Since the board investigators found no fault in your actions, I advise you to either have your attorney or you yourself contact the attorney for the board and discuss the matter. Perhaps bring it up at the next board meeting so the board may be able to find a way to prevent future issues in the way they handle complaints such as yours and maybe even correct your problem. Take an active part.
On a personal level, anytime I have a valid complaint, it bothers me-- board or no board! To have one that is frivolous would make me very mad, and I might try to petition the court to find out the nature of the complaint as well as the complainant.
Tip Sullivan, DPM, Jackson, MS
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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| What to wear when visiting Disneyland? |
Source: Patricia Cox via Virtual Shoe Museum
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MEETING NOTICES
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| CLASSIFIED ADS PART 1 - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - ESAOTE MYLAB 5 ULTRASOUND
Esaote MyLab 5 ultrasound. 5 years old, great condition. All original manuals included. Mobile cart also included. Please email nefootandankle@optonline.net for further information and pricing.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - LUNULA LASER
Lunula Laser, low level light laser for fungal toenails – 1 year old. 19K. Unit recently inspected, calibrated. The manufacturer with waive normal equipment transfer fee and host an interactive training webinar. Very little training required. Contact. Mkurlanski@lighthousefootandankle.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - ORANGE COUNTY NEW YORK
ACQUIRE MY PRACTICE AS I RETIRE. Well-established solo practice of 37 years in my hometown. Working 4 full days a week as I continue to provide my patients with the compassionate, conservative foot care they are accustomed to. Full surgical privileges available, with heavy emphasis on biomechanics, patient education, and IMEs. I am looking for a motivated young practitioner who understands the importance of being a podiatrist, not just a surgeon. I see working patients at 5:30 am, emergencies within 24 hours and am still going strong, but want to slow down. Send resume to mlwodka@hotmail.com
PRACTICES WANTED - FL, CA, TX, NY, NJ, PA, AL, TN, KY, GA, SC
Looking to buy podiatry practices large, small, rural or urban. Podiatrists who are looking to retire soon or in the near future, or wanting to join a larger group to handle business operations can contact us by clicking here. Competitive compensation and benefits package for those who would like to sell and work within the larger company..
PRACTICE WANTED - NORTHEAST FLORIDA
I am looking to purchase a practice in Northeast Florida. I am well trained in forefoot/hindfoot reconstruction including total ankle replacement, trauma and diabetic limb salvage. Financially sound practice with potential for future growth is a must. Immediate or transitional buy-outs considered. Please e-mail ankleandfootse@gmail.com if interested.
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,500 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 18,500 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@prodigy.net or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770.
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PART 2 - ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS |
ASSOCIATE POSITION – HOUSTON, TX
Established Houston practice seeking motivated, hard-working recent graduate for associate position in all aspects of podiatry. Long-term plan includes partnership. Send CV to dpm2docs@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MASSACHUSETTS
We are a well-established, very busy, hospital-based multi-doc practice located just north of Boston, seeking full-time DPM. Must be Board Qualified/Certified. Excellent referral base and high volume of new patients. We are well integrated within the medical community and active in both hospital out-patient and in-patient care. Competitive compensation and benefit package. Please email CV to footdocsma@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – LONG ISLAND, NY
FT/PT, BE/BC associate positions available with a 35+ year experienced, thriving, expanding, multiple office, full scope group on Long Island. Ideal for someone looking to be considered for future partnership. Hospital affiliations throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Generous offer includes competitive salary, production bonus, pension, medical and malpractice insurance, PTO, etc. Join our cutting edge, high tech facilities where you are, simply, expected to deliver high end care to the patient and let our supporting staff do all the rest! Forward CV to: mikeswae@optonline.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – LONG ISLAND, NY
Recently completed your podiatry residency? Congratulations! You’ve finally done it and with your training behind you this opportunity can be your final destination. Long Island, office-based, state-of-the-art “minimal incision” surgical practice seeks an energetic, well-groomed doctor with a great personality willing to be trained in cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques. Email your Letter of Interest and CV to: Seiwerik@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE NY
Excellent opportunity to start your career in a fresh practice! Seeking an associate to join, grow, and become partner. Key attributes: Board Qualified/Certified, self-starter, willingness to build practice. Looking for a motivated individual to contribute to our growth through all aspects of podiatry. Please send CV to: docryanlee@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST IOWA
Looking for a hard-working, caring, board eligible/certified podiatrist to join established, well-rounded practice. January 1 start date preferable but may be willing to wait for the right person. Competitive salary and benefits. Email CV and questions to drbarnes@cbfootcare.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – TEXAS, MISSOURI, FLORIDA, UPSTATE NEW YORK
A provider of high quality podiatric care in nursing facilities is looking for podiatrists to treat patients in Texas, Missouri, and Florida.. We are a fast growing company looking for motivated, caring podiatrists. Full-time and part-time positions available. Please send your CV & cover letter to office@easternpodiatrypllc.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ANNAPOLIS, MD
www.podiatrygroup.us seeks FT DPM to join our successful team. Latest technology, in office ASC, excellent support staff, marketing and protocols to help achieve your financial success. Candidate must possess surgical training, positive personality and great work ethic. Send cover letter/CV and referrals to mokane@podiatrygroup.us
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ST LOUIS, MISSOURI
Well-established, successful podiatry practice seeking dedicated, hardworking and motivated physician to join as an associate. Excellent referral and patient base. Special emphasis on at risk population. No nursing homes or house calls. Compensation by salary and bonus. Malpractice, health/dental and retirement benefits included. Email CV to sharikaminsky@hotmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – BALTIMORE, MD
MedStar Health is seeking a podiatric surgeon for full time employment Baltimore, Maryland. This position would be based at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital with a focus on limb salvage and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Preferred candidate would have 3 years post residency work experience, be fellowship trained and ABFAS board qualified for foot and RRA. The physician would join a growing multidisciplinary team in a hospital based surgical practice and would have the opportunity to work with and teach residents and students. Please send letter of intent and CV to john.steinberg@medstar.net.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – MARYLAND
Established practice looking for a full-time podiatrist for our three Maryland locations. The ideal candidate will have strong clinical skills including ulcer care, diabetes, surgery and general foot care. Must have a strong office personality with the ability to maintain and attract patients. Must be willing to merge into an already established protocol based office. Please send C/V to footdocs17@gmail.com
TEAM PHYSICIAN – SOUTH CAROLINA
Physicians Footcare, SC largest provider of podiatric services, is seeking a highly skilled and personable physician to join our TEAM. South Carolina License is necessary an d next exam is December 2018. Exam application must be submitted 90 days prior to exam date. If you are ready to live, work, and play comfortably; send letter of interest and CV to: scdpmjobs@gmail.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 18,500 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 18,500 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@prodigy.net or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at davidekagan@gmail.com or call (215) 808-0770.
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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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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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