The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

September 27, 2010 #3,969 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

A service of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2010- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
express written permission of Kane Communications, Inc.

Foot Relief is Often Simple as Replacing Worn Shoes: TX Podiatrist

The average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. While this is considered healthy activity, maintaining foot comfort can be a challenge for some. "Fifty percent of adults suffer from tired, achy feet, especially if they have jobs that keep them on their feet all day," says Dr. Leslie Campbell, a podiatrist and consultant for Dr. Scholl's.

Dr. Leslie Campbell

"Many aren't getting the relief they need, but there are simple ways to help relieve foot discomfort to keep you on your feet longer," says Campbell.  This can be as simple as being shoe savvy. Replace worn-out shoes as soon as possible and think carefully before purchasing new ones that might look great, but provide minimal support and comfort.

Source: Paris Beacon News [9/19/10]

APMWA Announces 25th Annual Student Writing Competition

The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 25th Annual Student Writing Competition.

• All papers MUST be non-technical in nature. Appropriate subjects include practice management, ethics,or any topic that would be suitable for a lay publication.
• There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
• First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), sponsored by an APMA Educational Foundation endowment from Dr. and Mrs. Steven Berlin, and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
• This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
• Entries must be received by 4/1/11 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
• Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry.

CA Podiatrist Teams up With Soccer Great to Form Reach uP! Foundation

Brandi Chastain was always an inspiration on the soccer field, and she's still going to be one after she leaves her professional career behind. Chastain, who lives in San Jose's Rose Garden neighborhood, has invited a few of her friends to play in a "testimonial game" Saturday at Santa Clara University's Buck Shaw Stadium. Friends such as Mia Hamm and Nomar Garciaparra, and that's just a sampling of the athletes and celebrities who will be taking part in the 6 p.m. match.

Dr. Joan Oloff

Of course, the day's about a lot more than Brandi getting one more chance to play soccer with her friends. She'll also be raising funds for the Reach uP! Foundation, an organization she's launching with Los Gatos podiatrist Joan Oloff to encourage girls to embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Source: Sal Pizarro, Mercury News [9/26/10]

Editor's Note: PM News is proud to present excerpts from Meet the Masters.

Bret Ribotsky: If you were a consultant to a podiatrist, what would you tell them to help build a value proposition statement?

Dr. Allen Selner

Allen Selner: The value proposition is, “I do not know what a podiatrist does. There are 100 (podiatrists) in the Blue Cross/Blue Shield book. Who is best to see?” You need to create a branded value proposition that you are a hi-tech person in the community and the latest, greatest technology is in your office. Once you have a hi-tech brand, you build it by branding of your cards - you build it by pamphlets and handouts - you build up a website that looks hi-tech and which allows people to be interactive with.  Don’t just use a website that puts your information on. Don’t be boring. Make it interactive. It costs you a few bucks, but people are going to appreciate it. 

Go on a TV show or radio show and say, “look everybody who has heel pain can go to our website now and put in their weight and their age and the demographics, and we will give them some guidance (not make a diagnosis). Do you know how powerful that would be and how many people would let you do talk shows and radio shows, if you were the hi-tech guy in your community? 

Dr. Bradley Bakotic

Meet the Masters is broadcast each Tuesday Night at 9 PM (EST). The next segment  will feature  dematopathology specialist Brad Bakotic, DPM, DO. You can register for this event by clicking here

New RCT Supports Efficacy and Safety of Spiracur SNaP Wound Care System

Spiracur, Inc. has announced important results from a clinical study highlighting the safety and efficacy of its SNaP Wound Care System for the treatment of chronic lower extremity wounds. The 12-center, 65-patient randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) between the KCI Wound VAC Therapy System and the SNaP Wound Care System for the treatment of chronic lower extremity wounds.

The poster was presented by David G. Armstrong, DPM, MD, PhD (principal investigator), William A. Marston, MD, Alexander M. Reyzelman, DPM and Robert S. Kirsner, MD, PhD. The subjects were randomly assigned to treatment with either the SNaP System or the VAC System, and the trial evaluated treatment for up to 16 weeks, or until there was complete closure of the ulcer. Planned interim analysis of the first 65 patients from 12 centers found no significant differences in the proportion of subjects healed between the two devices evaluated or in percent wound size reduction.

Source: Device Space [9/24/10]

Deal with Patients’ Anger

You know what an angry patient’s voice sounds like: high-pitched tone, elevated volume, long pauses and sighs, or a condescending tone. You may hear threats, swearing, shrill demands or terse answers. Once you have identified an angry caller, what next? An angry patient actually has two problems: a relationship problem with your practice and a specific problem that prompted the call. You must acknowledge the first problem first.

The best way to repair the patient’s relationship with your practice is to attend to the following needs. Angry patients need you to make them feel:

•  Valued. Say: “We value your business, and I am sorry that your experience was less than you expected and deserved.”
•  Appreciated. Say: “Thank you for taking the time to make us aware of this situation.”
•  Respected. Say: “You make a valid point” and “I can understand why that would make you upset.”
•  Understood. Say: “That makes sense” and “I see what you mean.”
•  Comfortable. Say: “Let me know what we can do to make that up to you.”

Source: Adapted from Keep Them Calling! Superior Service on the Telephone, Sherry Barrett, American Media Publishing via Communication Briefings

RE: Chronic Skin Irritation (James Breedlove, DPM)
From: Gino Scartozzi, DPM

In regard to the treatment afforded this patient, I strongly suggest a biopsy of the leading edge of this lesion and another in the central aspect of involvement. The patient being in work boots with a hyperhydrotic state leads me to be highly suspect of a chemical contact dermatitis. The distribution of the lesion to a non-weight-bearing portion of the lower extremity does not lend itself to a diagnosis of a dermatophyte infection readily, although this is rarely possible. I would correlate the biopsy results with a discussion with the pathologist. If there appears to be an eosinophilic infiltration within the biopsy sites, that would be suggestive of an allergic response as would be seen in a contact dermatitis. Skin scrapings with PAS stain to rule out dermatophyte infection can be considered if punch biopsies are non-contributory.

If the biopsies suggest a contact dermatitis, change of boot wear should be considered. Rotation of boot wear would be helpful. The use of a topical corticosteroids for intermittent use and/or Caladryl Clear (Benadryl with Calamine) for minor reactions may be helpful. Controlling the patient's hyperhydrotic state with any topical preparation you prefer, with corn starch/talcum powder each day would help. Also, the use of running socks specifically designed to "wick" away perspiration can be useful in prevention. Follow-up with an allergist for skin testing may help patient determine the chemical irritant to avoid.

Gino Scartozzi, DPM, New Hyde Park, NY Gsdpm@aol.com

RE: AZ Scope of Practice (Randall Brower, DPM)
From: Robert Bijak, DPM

Podiatrists appear to be lost. We can't amputate a toe. We can't do "cosmetic" surgery without jail time. We're foot doctors, but some work on the leg, some can't do a wart on the ankle. The schools gave us a piece of paper and left us out to dry. That's why we have podiatric businessmen doing better than podiatric doctors. The country is a mish mash of different laws and training. Take your project 2015 and debride it to good tissue. Admit podiatry is dead at this stage without a full-scope license. This will be going on another 30 years until the members pressure the leadership and schools to have one focus. Ohio reduced its class size because it can't guarantee post-grad training for its students.

We're going backwards, despite the Pollyanna podiatrists' fantasies. The focus that will cure all our political ills forever is an MD or a DPM with full scope. Why waste any more time with ideas that put off the inevitable. Podiatrists, aren't you sick of seeing the same complaints year after year after year?  Save your profession from elite complacency. It's way past time for full scope training, and we need a mechanism for the forgotten podiatrists already in practice!  The schools and leadership are as quiet as a grave.

Robert Bijak, DPM, Clarence Center, NY, rbijak@aol.com

RE: Co-operative Marketing of Podiatry (Brian Kiel, DPM)
From: Lawrence Rubin, DPM

Kudos to those podiatrists who are joining together to form local cooperative marketing programs. They will discover that there is "Power In Numbers." In the Las Vegas area, our cooperative is diabetes amputation prevention-focused and is being developed in collaboration with the 501(c)3 non-profit Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention (LEAP) Alliance. Although the cooperative is very new, the support we are receiving from civic leaders, hospitals, diabetes service groups, and physicians is already resulting in a stream of referrals to participating podiatrists.

It is win/win for patients and doctors. Diabetics benefit through a program of early detection and prompt treatment of potentially hazardous foot problems, and the practices of the podiatrists who treat them benefit as well. The LEAP Alliance encourages podiatrists in other areas to develop similar programs.

Lawrence Rubin, DPM, Vas Vegas, NV, lrubin@leapalliance.org

RE: Colombian Narco Terrorist Meets End Because of Diabetic Feet

This Thursday, Mono Jojoy was killed in his secret jungle base. He was the military boss of the narco-terrorist group FARC, responsible for the deaths and kidnappings of thousands of people in Colombia. Caught and killed thanks to a boot.

He suffered from diabetes which, combined with the rigors of the life in the jungle, had caused painful injuries on his feet. That was the reason why he had to order a new pair of special boots. And that was when Operation Sodoma started and his death began. The guerrilla command sent a message asking for these special boots, which was caught by Colombian intelligence. The Colombians were able to intercept the boots and rig one of them with GPS circuitry. When Mono got them, his fate was sealed.

Source: El Mundo via Dr. David Armstrong's Diabetic Foot Blog

ASSOCIATE POSITION – LONG ISLAND, NY

Associate full-time. Well-established, busy, well-rounded podiatry practice looking for a motivated podiatrist. Suffolk Co. LI NY. Board eligible, Board certified PSR-24/36 trained. Fax resume to 631-581-0857

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WEST COAST, FLORIDA

Outstanding opportunity for PSR-36 graduate to join successful group podiatry practice in Summer 2011. Seeking a sociable, articulate graduate who is confident in rearfoot and ankle reconstructive cases but also enjoys all phases of podiatry. Long-term opportunity for the right candidate with generous pay and benefits. Reply to jwicks@cortezfootandankle.com

ASSOCIATE WANTED - DELRAY BEACH FLORIDA AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY

Rapidly growing well established practice seeking part-time leading to full-time. PSR 12-36. Great opportunity for highly motivated, personable individual. Please reply by emailing a CV to nursebsf@aol or fax (561) 498-9068.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FREDERICK, MARYLAND

Well-established group practice is located only 45 minutes from both DC and Baltimore. Immediate opening for a minimum PSR 36 Podiatrist for full time position. We have it all: EMR, digital x-ray, ultrasound, ASC, etc. Excellent salary with bonus structure and benefits. Please email resume to docsbnb@aol.com

NORTHEAST OHIO PODIATRY OPPORTUNITY

Western Reserve Senior Care, an innovative home visit practice that makes visits to seniors in assisted living facilities and SNF’s, is recruiting for a Part-Time Podiatrist. Make a true difference as you make visits to homebound seniors while managing the full scope of podiatric disease. This opportunity offers a perfect balance of superb lifestyle and excellent compensation. Practice is affiliated with world class health systems in Cleveland, OH. Email CV to wmills@westernreserveseniorcare.com

PART TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED-LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Busy podiatrist looking for assistance with patients located in facilities, home, office etc. Flexible hours, independence, and great compensation. If interested email CV to homefootcare@hotmail.com or call Terri at 323-353-8103.

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE- ASSOCIATE POSITION -CT (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN)

Great opportunity. Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Well-established and progressive offices. Electronic medical records, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, nerve conduction studies, pinpoint and CO2 lasers, electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapies. Seeking a well-trained, personable, and highly motivated individual. Please send resume and current photo to dr.kassaris@yahoo.com

PART-TIME, LICENSED PODIATRIST - WEST BLOOMFIELD, MICHIGAN
Immediate opening for treating patients in a nursing facility setting. If interested, please e-mail drteetime@aol.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MARYLAND, DC SUBURB

Great opportunity. Retiring after 38 years in practice at the same location. Practice is fully equipped with digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, computer network, orthotic scanner and state licensed ambulatory surgical center that is fully equipped. Owner will stay on as needed for easy transition. dpmpracticeforsale@yahoo.com

AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER PRIVILEGES AVAILABLE - NJ

Privileges available in a new 2 ORs. New certified multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center in Fairlawn, NJ - 8 minutes to the George Washington bridge. Specializing in podiatric surgery. Center will pick up and return patient home. Syndication is available. Center will accommodate doctors in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, and long Island. Will assist in getting NJ License. Call for information (516)476-1815 e-mail podo2345@aol.com. To view center, go to FAIRLAWNASC.SHUTTERFLY.COM

MEDICAL SPACE AVAILABLE- MANHATTAN

Multispecialty Medical Building with 24/7 doorman. Prime Luxury Building and Location, Gramercy, Stuyvesant, Peter Cooper Area. 305 Second Avenue (17th-18th). Prior tenants past 23 years; podiatrist, dentist (plumbing/electric intact), internist. Ideal for podiatry, co-share with dentist, MD, etc. (flexible lease terms). E-Mail; jbdrun@aol.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,000 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 12,000 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.

• To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
• Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
• Notes must be in the following form:
  RE: (Topic)
  From: (your name, DPM)
  Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
  Your name, DPM City/State
• Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.