The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

October 16, 2010 #3,985 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Toning Shoes Can Help Those With Arthritis: CT Podiatrist

Recently, researchers from the American Council on Exercise decided to put the toners to the test. They recruited subjects; laced them up in EasyTones, Shape-ups, and MBTs; and put them on treadmills. Then they used electromyography to measure the muscle activation in their calves, quads, hamstrings, buttocks, back, and abs. The researchers found no significant increase in muscle activity when comparing toners to normal sneakers. "There is simply no evidence to support the claims that these shoes will help wearers exercise more intensely, burn more calories, or improve muscle strength and tone," the report found.

Dr. Josh White

But some doctors have noted that the rocker soles do have therapeutic benefits for people with specific conditions. "They can reduce strain on certain joints, which benefits people with arthritis, and they're good for people with soreness and calluses on their feet," says Connecticut podiatrist Josh White, who works with diabetes patients. Some doctors prescribe them to arthritic patients as substitutes for air casts.

Source: Newsweek.com [10/14/10]

No Evidence That Barefoot Runners Get Fewer Injuries: CA Podiatrist

Is running barefoot better? Not according to Dr. Kevin A. Kirby, Associate Professor of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University. He says, "I don’t deny that minimalist shoes can help certain people, but to say they will help everyone is dead wrong. Running is a very individual thing, and you have to experiment and find out what works for each individual. I am putting this in the context of 40 years of distance running and 25 years of treating patients. As a sports podiatrist, I look at the type of injury, foot type, and training, and then recommend options that change bad patterns."

Dr. Kevin Kirby

There’s not a single shred of evidence that barefoot runners get fewer injuries. In fact, many clinics are reporting that they’re now seeing different types of injuries in barefoot runners. We’re seeing a rash of metatarsal stress fractures in people running in Vibram FiveFingers. This is a shoe that’s supposed to be preventing injuries, but it’s causing them, after only a few years on the market. Shoe companies are starting to make a lot of money, but we’re only beginning to see new injury patterns resulting from this trend, said Kirby.

Source: Jedd Ferris, Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine [10/1/10] 

CA Podiatrist is Amputation Prevention Medical Director for APCA

Paradigm Medical Management, Inc., a company dedicated to the development, implementation, and management of hospital outpatient wound care, amputation prevention, and hyperbaric medicine centers, has introduced Amputation Prevention Centers of America™ (APCA), a specialized division of PMM that addresses severe wounds and prevents unnecessary amputations.

Dr. Lee C. Rogers

Led by PMM’s Amputation Prevention Medical Director, Dr. Lee C. Rogers, the APCA programs utilize a team-based approach that pairs podiatrists and/or foot and ankle orthopedists with vascular surgeons, generating significant results in reducing major amputations for the growing number of people in the country who suffer the complications of diabetes and/or peripheral arterial disease. Dr. Rogers is a board-certified podiatrist specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of diabetes-related, lower-extremity complications, and is fellowship-trained in diabetic limb salvage.

Source: Kansas City Star [10/14/10]

ACFAS Division IV Educational Seminar Draws Over 110 Podiatrists

The ACFAS Division IV educational seminar held October 8-10 in Scottsdale, Arizona was a success. More than 110 podiatrists registered for this meeting. As part of this Seminar, Division IV hosted a resident lecture competition. Five residents from three residency programs participated in this competition. Residents who presented a lecture were: Matthew Hinderland, and Adam Toren from the Highlands/Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center in Denver CO; Rebecca Haugen from DVA-Tuscon AZ; Michael Nielsen and Brandon Wilde from DVA-Albuquerque, NM.

(L-R) Drs. Kerry Zang, Janna Kroleski, Michael Nielsen, and James Dancho.

The first prize was awarded to Dr. Nielsen from New Mexico.  ACFAS Division IV includes the states of AZ, UT, NV, CO and NM. The success of this seminar was due to the hard work of officers: Drs. Jim Dancho (President); Kerry Zang (President-elect); Gregory Still (Vice President); Veasna Srey (Treasurer); Michael Kooyman (Secretary); and Aprajita Nakra (Co-Secretary).

Labor-Related Tax Breaks Businesses Need To Know - Part 1

In this tough economy, every business could use a break. Here is a list of available tax credits to businesses who hire employees fitting in the following categories:

Job Corps Graduates: Job Corps is a free educational and vocational training program available to eligible youth between the ages of 16 and 24. Businesses who hire Job Corps graduates not only get a highly trained entry-level employee, but qualify for a $2,400 tax break for at least six months of full-time employment and a $1,200 tax credit for part-time employment for the same amount of time.

Veterans: Federal tax benefits are available for business owners who hire veterans under the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). There is a credit of up to $2,400 if a business hires a veteran who is a member of a family that has received food stamps or a disabled veteran who is participating in a vocational rehabilitation program. Businesses can receive up to $4,800 in tax credits for hiring a veteran within one year of being discharged or released from active duty or who has been unemployed for any six of the last 12 months.

Source: Jennifer Vander Sanden

Query: Verapamil for Plantar Fibromatosis

I have an active 45 y.o. patient who has painful plantar fibromatosis but is not a surgical candidate. I have heard about Verapamil topical ointment as a treatment. What is the proper protocol/dosage to follow?
 
Payam Nikravesh, DPM,  Los Angeles, CA

Query: Billing Services for Medicare

We have been using the software from Medicare for a few years now, but it has become cumbersome and is about to become more so. Any suggestions for a billing service for all of these: Medicare Indiana, Medicare Illinois, Railroad Medicare. and Medicare DME?

Paul Stepanczuk, DPM, Munster, IN

Query: Rules for Rewarding Patient Referrals

I recently started at a new practice in Florida, and the owner of my group asked me to listen to some CD's on capturing patient referrals. These CD's were primarily aimed at chiropractors and dentists, but in them, the speaker recommended sending patients who refer other patients to your practice thank-you cards with gift certificates in them. He also suggested holding raffles for high-cost items (such as LCD TV's, mini vacations, etc.) for patients who send referrals. He even suggested rewarding staff who refer new patients to the practice with cash gifts. I was always under the assumption that rewarding people for sending patient referrals violates state law in most locations. Is anyone aware of what IS or IS NOT legal to do in this regard?

Peter Walimire, DPM, Cape Coral, FL

Editor's comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. While sending out thank-you notes to patients is an excellent practice management technique, including gift certificates is problematic. This is particular if the referred patient happens to be a Medicare recipient. It's best to check with a healthcare attorney in your state to determine if this practice is legal. If so, what are the limits on the value of the gift you can send?

In terms of employees, we are not aware of any prohibition on rewarding employees who refer new patients to the practice.

Query: Getting a Copy of Podiatry Specific CCI Edits

Where is the best place to find a copy of current podiatry-specific NCCI edits?

Mary Scharf, Office Manager, Office of Edward Stein, DPM, St. Peters, MO

Response: If you are look for what I consider the best place to find podiatry-specific CCI edits plus a whole lot more coding resources, including the 2011 ICD-9 codes, CPT, HCPCS, ICD-9-to-CPT linkage, etc., go to the American Podiatric Medical Association's Coding Resource Center: apmacodingrc.org

Paul Kinberg, DPM, Dallas, TX

Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription

RE: Drug Debacles Continue
From: Bob Kornfeld, DPM

The latest news regarding Avandia comes as no surprise to me. The investments that drug companies put into testing and marketing their drugs is enormous. Suppressing potentially lethal information is what they do to protect their bottom line. So, when will the next one surface? It is just a matter of time. The human body is not a lab experiment. It should not ever be desecrated for the sake of profit. This further deepens my resolve to teach my fellow podiatrists the beauty and safety inherent in treating patients through the integrative medical model.

This paradigm is here to stay. It is not going away. I am urging all of you to at least open your minds and attend integrative seminars. Come to learn. Shed the limitations that keep you feeling stuck. You have the power to implement change. Change and grow your practice in a whole new way. Go to work and feel satisfied that what you are doing is for your patients' ultimate good. I promise, you will feel really satisfied with the feedback they give you.
 
Bob Kornfeld, DPM, Manhasset, NY, Holfoot153@aol.com

Query: Doctor (DPM) Doctor?

The cover story  of this week's Modern Healthcare is titled "Fueling the turf battle: Institute of Medicine report pushes expanded scope for nurses; docs say study draws illogical conclusions." The question begs: Doctor Nurse…what about Doctor (DPM) Doctor?

Modern Healthcare

Podiatry needs to expand scope of practice to be included as primary care providers. Our medical education is the same; so why waste it?  If we sit back and do nothing, we will be moved lower on the professional totem pole behind physician assistants and nurses who will see their scope of practice (and recognition) expand while ours continues to shrink. Title XIX recognition as a physician is okay and commendable, but expansion of scope of practice and full recognition as primary care providers willing to help with the impending physician shortage, is imperative. This needs to be the challenge and goal of the APMA.

Vincent Mandraccia, DPM, Des Moines, IA, VMandracchia@Broadlawns.org

RE: Is Parity Achievable (Name Withheld)
From: Robert Haynie, MD, PhD

It is with great sadness that I read about the well-trained podiatrist who is having to deal with the issues around the scope of practice brought out by the folks in orthopedics. As a former full-time hospital physician and member of the credentialing board, we went through a similar case in which I was outspoken on this issue, which solved the problem. If you have a champion on the committee and the request does not violate any of his state medical board rules and regulations, then the privileges should be granted.

Robert Haynie, MD, PhD, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, rxh31@case.edu 

PART-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN NEW MEXICO

Associate needed for a dynamic group practice in Northern New Mexico. We are looking for a well-trained 3-year surgical resident to help us build our practice leading to partnership. In New Mexico we have a leg law. Besides a great professional experience, we have the mountains for skiing, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. Ideal for an experienced podiatrist looking for a location change. Please send a resume to FootandAnkleAssociates@comcast.net

ASSOCIATESHIP - MARYLAND

A great opportunity to join and gain ownership interest of a well established, diversified practice in Maryland. 2-year residency needed, EHR, ultrasound, ASC, hospital close by with wound care center. Fax resume to 410-749-6807.

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ST. LOUIS, MO

Leading group practice looking to add one podiatrist to established location. Group's podiatrists enjoy incentive compensation plan (production and sharing group profits), benefits including health and malpractice, and supported with integrated practice management and EMR systems. Perfect opportunity for solo practitioner to join group setting. Could also be part time opportunity for the right individual. Please forward CV to StlPodGroup@gmail.com

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE- ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO

Join a well-established modern practice with an excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $100,000 and benefits with a bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, all aspects of DME, Padnet vascular studies, and CO2 lasers. We seek a surgeon that is well trained, personable and motivated to join our group of 3 Podiatric Surgeons. Would like this individual to buy in the practice eventually. Please send resume and photo to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NYC, NY

Part/time, full/time associate for busy, well established multi-doctor, multi-office NYC group. Seeking motivated, ethical, NYC licensed DPM with excellent office management and clinical skills in all phases of Podiatry. Board Qualified/Certified preferred. Salary plus incentives, pension/medical/dental. Partnership potential. Fax CV to 631-369-6570.

PART-TIME / FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED ASAP - CHICAGO

Part-time podiatrist needed for 2 offices in Chicago with an average of 20 hours/week. Must have Illinois license. Must have completed 2 years of surgical residency. If qualified, email to f-massuda@footexperts.com

PART-TIME/FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - INDIANA

Part-time full-time Podiatrist needed for our Indiana offices. Must have Indiana license. Must have completed two years of surgical residency. If qualified email to  f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – LONG ISLAND

FT/PT Associate position available with busy multi-office podiatry group on Long Island. Our practice is state-of-the-art, and encompasses all phases of podiatric care. We welcome new practitioners, or someone who would be open to merging a smaller practice with ours, and benefitting from our practice management overlay. We also invite residents graduating in 2011 who want to practice on Long Island to apply for this position. Compensation includes competitive salary and bonuses. Vacation pay and malpractice insurance are also offered with a full time position. Please send your CV by fax (631) 293-3462 or e-mail to mets724@gmail.com

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

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

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: PADNET SYSTEM BY BIOMEDIX

Less than 1 yr old. Two computer laptops included to allow flexibility of testing in 2 offices. Training by Biomedix included in price. Willing to sell for remainder of balance on lease. Contact by email at hassenfratz@hotmail.com

SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP

The Palo Alto Medical Foundation Surgical/Sports Fellowship Aug 1, 2011 thru July 31, 2012. APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO OBTAIN A CALIFORNIA LICENSE. Responsibilities include assisting in all types of foot and ankle surgery (approximately 500 cases), seeing patients in the sports clinic and completing 2 papers/research projects. Benefits include salary of $56,500/yr, medical, dental, malpractice, and CME allowance. Interviews at the Midwest Podiatry Conference Mar 3-5, 2011 & ACFAS Mar 8-10, 2011, but on-site visit is preferred. Minimum 24-month surgical residency training pre-requisite. Send a letter of interest, CV and three letters of recommendation to: Amol Saxena, DPM. HeySax@AOL.com

TRAUMA FELLOWSHIP - FOOT & ANKLE

Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, IA is currently accepting applications for its 12 month trauma surgery fellowship beginning August 1, 2011. Fellowship to include advanced techniques in all foot and ankle surgery with an emphasis on lower extremity trauma, reconstruction & total joint replacement. Residency training required. Competitive salary and benefits. Please submit a letter of interest, CV, and 3 letters of recommendation to: Ben Olsen, DPM, Director: Foot and Ankle Trauma Fellowship, Broadlawns Medical Center,  1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314, 515-282-7927,  bolsen@broadlawns.org 

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SW LOUISIANA

Only full-time podiatrist in city of 30,000. Great economic base of oil refineries and numerous petrochemical companies as well as riverboat casinos. Located in sportsman’s paradise. Practice comes with 2600 sq. ft. office building and all supplies. 7 area hospitals. Reasonably priced. Contact peshdpm@pol.net

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

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,500 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 12,500 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.

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