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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,264 Podiatrists Daily
October 30, 2013 #4,902  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2013- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PODIATRISTS AND POLITICS | |
VA Podiatrist Appointed to RNC Advisory Council
Stanley Idiculla, DPM has been appointed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Republican Party of Virginia to be part of the Republican Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Council for the state of Virginia. He the only physician to be appointed.
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Dr. Stanley Idiculla |
Dr. Idiculla is the President of Northern Virginia Podiatric Medical Association. He is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the Virginia Podiatic Medical Society. He has received numerous awards for his involvement and contributions, both nationally and statewide.
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL | |
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| PUBLISHED PODIATRISTS | |
PA Podiatrist Self Publishes Suspense Novel
As a podiatrist, Dr. Maasi J. Smith knows a whole lot about scary - gangrenous cysts, bulging bunions, hammertoes so pronounced that they need surgery, icky fungal conditions and worse. Not much freaks him out. He's cool, calm and unflappable, which is why he's attracted to the horror genre. Smith recently came out with the revised edition of his self-published suspense novel, Mischiefmakers. It's an eerie tale about a young woman in Newark who's caught between reality and some sinister place.
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Dr. Maasi Smith gives advice to Jocelyn Guillen, a Temple podiatry student (Photo: Jenice Armstrong) |
Like most first-time authors, he got a pile of rejection letters. But he kept at it, inspired by the late E. Lynn Harris, who sold copies of Invisible Life from the trunk of his car before finally getting a major publishing deal and landing on the New York Times best-seller list multiple times.
Source: Jenice Armstrong, Philadelphia Daily News [10/28/13]
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| PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
Climbing The Corporate Ladder Requires The Right Shoes: APMA President
Climbing the corporate ladder requires marketable skills, initiative, creativity and ... the right shoes? While the importance of proper footwear may seem obvious for professions that require standing or walking all day, such as waitressing, nursing, or cooking, poor shoe choices can also trip you up in an office setting.
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Dr. Matthew Garoufalis |
“At best, sore feet can be a troublesome distraction when you need to concentrate in a meeting or be at your best during a job interview,” says Dr. Matthew Garoufalis, a podiatrist and president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). “At worst, severe foot injuries from poor footwear can require corrective surgery that puts you out of commission – and out of the office – for extended periods of time.”
Source: Indianapolis Recorder [10/28/13]
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| SUCCESS TIPS FROM THE MASTERS | |
Bret Ribotsky: What are you looking for in a podiatry student?
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(L-R) Dr. Vincent Hetherington, Fatima Cassim, and Prof. Stuart Baird |
Fatima Cassim (South Africa): First, you need somebody who knows what they are getting into and knows about podiatry. Then you want that person to be empathetic and sympathetic with patients. You also need someone with good hands who is adept at problem solving.
Stuart Baird (Scotland, UK): In the British system, students often start at 18 years old, so maturity is something we look for. Podiatry is a four-year program, but keep in mind that medicine is five years.
Vincent Hetherington (USA): Ninety-nine percent of the time, our students have a degree, so they are more mature. We look at how they have done on the core required science classes and the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). We make sure they know that they are making a life-long carrier decision when they enter podiatry school.
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(L-R) Dr. Joseph Caporusso, Alison Wishart, and Dr. Matthew Garoufalis. |
Meet the Masters on Tusday night will feature interviews of world podiatry leaders Dr. Joseph Caporusso, Alison Wishart, and Dr. Matthew Garoufalis held at the World Congress of Podiatry. You can register for this event by clicking here
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Subtalar Arthroeresis Gone Bad?
My patient is a 9 year old obese boy who had significant symptoms and pathology related to his pes planovalgus foot structure. Conservative orthotic therapy did not help. Thus, a subtalar arthroeresis was performed first on the right foot, and then the left foot. The patient did very well with the right foot and was back in shoes in a month. The left foot has been nothing but pain and problems. He will not put the foot to the ground.
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Subtalar Arthroeresis Gone Bad? |
He has been immobilized in both a cast and a CAM-type walker. I am at a loss as to why he has problems with the left foot. I have the patient scheduled for removal of the implant (it has been in now 3 months). Is it advisable to replace the implant (smaller or larger?). Do I need to retrograde the implant out some?
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Physical Therapist to Be Added to the Practice
We are adding physical therapy services to our clinic (incident to the physician's services). The physical therapist will perform the evaluation. The physical therapy assistant will provide the service. The PT and PT assistant will be employees of our clinic. Can you give any basic guidelines for billing purposes?
Amy DeGirolamo, DPM Oxford, MS
Response: Physical therapy assistant's (PTA) services *cannot* be billed "incident to" a physician's service, so you must make sure that your physical therapist is enrolled with Medicare *and* that the physical therapist is on site whenever the PTA is providing services. The services will then be billed under the physical therapist's PIN number, not yours.
Billing in the physical therapist's name will *not* lower the reimbursement rate for the service, so there's absolutely no reason to be concerned about billing in the physical therapist's name. That said, however, if you don't mind a bit of free practice management advice, have the physical therapist *also* perform physical therapy services. Beyond that, make sure that the documentation -- both that of the evaluation of the patient by the PT, as well as the rendering of the various modalities by the PTA, are documented in accordance to APTA documentation standards. There are some unique nuances to physical therapist billing. Hopefully, the physical therapist is knowledgeable of those. If not, you probably want to send them to one of APTA's coding and billing courses.
Joan Gilhooly, CPC, CHCC, Lebanon, OH
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
RE: Unknown Skin Lesion
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Elliot Udell, DPM
An unknown skin lesion without a biopsy is a mystery indeed. This is the main reason for the performance of a biopsy. If you want to know who is at your front door one way to find out is to open the door and see who is there.
One of the things we have to consider is the possibility of an allergic reaction to a permanent suture that was not totally removed or an absorbable suture that the patient's body did not absorb and is causing the depicted untoward reaction. If steroid injections into the area or strong acting topical steroids do not remedy the problem, you might have to do a superficial exploratory surgery to look for remaining sutures.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 2 | |
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Dr. Mullens makes an important point. Just as lightning takes the path of least resistance, insurance companies always take the path of least payment. If they can show that there are no double-blinded studies supporting an expensive treatment, they will run from payment.
What is most puzzling is why haven't there been any studies to support PRP. We should not fault the clinicians since most private practitioners neither have the training nor have the economic means to initiate expensive,clinical research. Yet, PRP is a high ticket item and its use crosses the boundaries of at least two different professions. The manufacturers of the devices and supplies can certainly afford to initiate and fund research, and there are no shortages of orthopedists and podiatrists in academic positions who would be willing to take part in such studies. Perhaps there have been well conducted studies which never made it into the literature?
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
From: Stephen G. Ruby, MD, MBA, Kristin Happel
In response to your poll on office staff fraud, I would like to let you readership have access to a white paper that I authored on this topic last year. I believe your readership will find this very useful, especially in light of your survey.
I am the office manager for a solo podiatrist. My co-worker and I have collectively worked for her for thirty-eight years. In that time, we haven't stolen so much as a paperclip from the office. Therefore, I find the sentiment behind the responses I have read so far concerning the doctor whose practice was embezzled to be insulting and offensive, in that it seems to be saying it is just a matter of time before an employee starts embezzling.
I hope employers do not start looking suspiciously at honest employees, wondering if they are thieves, simply because of a few responses that relate situations where employees were dishonest and unethical. Those are the bad apples, and they do not define or characterize the bushel. The majority of us are dedicated, loyal, honest, and ethical. No amount of money is worth stealing if it means losing those principles, our jobs, and the respect of our bosses, family, and friends.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CODINGLINE CORNER) | |
From: Tom DeBenedictis, DPM
Prior to becoming a podiatrist, I was a nurse anesthetist and patients frequently would say they were either "borderline " or "only a little diabetic." We would always treat them as if they were diabetic for safety. I remember an old but very smart nurse once told me, "being a 'little diabetic' or 'borderline diabetic' is like being a little pregnant." You either are or are not. The smart nurse was my Mother! If you do not take the precautions needed for a diabetic patient and then something goes wrong, do you think the patient or the patient's attorney will agree that a borderline diabetic is not really diabetic?
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) | |
I was shocked to hear of the passing of Tom. I first met Tom and Guido La Porta when they both chaired the surgery department at PCPM. They took it upon themselves to set up monthly evening lectures for all of the residents of programs within the Delaware valley. They lectured on the latest surgical techniques and theories. It was the first time I was introduced to Root biomechanics as they both were trained on the West Coast. Tom left the school 6 months into my first year and joined William Goldfarb, DPM in practice. He became my residency director, and I eventually joined the practice as a partner in 1975. Tom became the president of the ACFAS, and with Bill's encouragement, the president of PPMA. He eventually returned to California to work at CCPM and then left to become the president of OCPM. He dedicated his life to his family and to his profession. We all lost a very special individual. I only hope that his family can get some comfort in knowing that Tom has influenced countless lives and has left an extensive legacy in the podiatric profession.
Franklin N. Levinson, DPM , North Bergen, NJ
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MEETING NOTICES
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Choose any or ALL (50 CME Contact Hours) from the 30+ CME Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
HOME FOOT CARE, INC. - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Looking for reliable, honest, and motivated podiatrists to join our group to assist with house calls to patient’s home residences, and some group facilities. Candidate must be willing to drive throughout the San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. Part/Full time, flexible hours, independence, great compensation! If interested, please email resume to: homefootcare@hotmail.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 - FLORIDA
Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. Florida has a great scope of practice law and we rotate for ER call at all 4 hospitals. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner OK. Base salary, percentage, benefits including 401K. Fax CV to (239)566-8778 or Email CV to Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – PENNSYLVANIA
We are looking for podiatrists to see patients in nursing homes in the following parts of Pennsylvania: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, State College, Pittsburgh, and the Greater Philadelphia Area. Please contact doconcall02@aol.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO
Join an established group practice in Dayton, Ohio excellent reputation, large referral base. Base Salary$120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR;diagnostic ultrasound; Padnet; CO2 and Cutera Laser for nails, all aspects of DME. We need well trained personable PSR24/36 surgeon. Future Buy-in available. Please send CV to: Ohiomedical@aol.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – TX
Are you looking for a permanent practice home? Do you have great biomechanics skills and maybe not so interested in ankle surgery? Are you highly motivated and ready to work in the Grapevine, Keller or Bedford area? If you answered yes to any of these questions, email: newfaantassociate@yahoo.com Put Hire Me in the subject line.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND
Seeking highly motivated, ethical, enthusiastic associate to join successful, well-established practice located in close proximity to Maryland and Delaware beaches. Certified/qualified by ABPS with rearfoot experience preferred. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care, sports medicine and general podiatry. Fully equipped office with diagnostic ultrasound, fluoroscopy, vascular testing, radio frequency ablation, six treatment rooms and three satellite offices. Main office has accredited ambulatory surgery center. This opportunity has excellent salary potential with benefits for the right individual. Send CV to dpmkthomas@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - PENNSYLVANIA
Associate Wanted for busy, multifaceted podiatry practice in Chester and Delaware counties, Pennsylvania. Seeking PSR-24/36 trained podiatrist for full/part time associate position. Two offices and hospital privileges. Send CV and letter to: 123bunion@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA
Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com
RECONSTRUCTIVE FELLOWSHIP POSITION – SOUTHWEST, FL
R U a SuperStar? PM&S36 or PSR24. prerequisite. Hardworking w/o Ego. ABPS BC/BQ required RRA. 1 year Fellowship will entail Ring, Rods, complex reconstructive planning/procedures and practice management. Research projects and posters to present at yearly fellowship conference. Send CV, Tell why you are a superstar. mny1029@gmail.com
CENTRAL KENTUCKY DIABETES MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP
Directed by Dr. Jonathan Moore of Cumberland Foot and Ankle Centers of Kentucky, this non-accredited, 1-year fellowship starts in July and offers a wide variety of training opportunities that focus on diabetes, but span a wide variety of pathologies and unique training opportunities. Work hands-on with our office administration team to learn ICD-10. Our on-staff certified orthotist, physical therapist, shoe store staff, MRI director and other team members will make this the most valuable training year of your career. Generous stipend, benefits, and free housing. Learn more at www.myhappyfoot.com (click the Fellowship Tab). Send CVs to jmoore@aappm.org.
DEAN - KENT STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE
The College of Podiatric Medicine at Kent State University invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean. The Dean of KSU’s College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM) will lead the college, with complete line responsibility for personnel, general administration and management, budget, academic, and development functions. Interested candidates should have a DPM degree and academic credentials appropriate for appointment to the rank of full professor. Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Interested candidates should submit confidentially, a curriculum vitae and letter of interest to: Dr. Jett Pihakis, KentStatePodiatry@russellreynolds.com (202) 654-7800 Kent State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
PRACTICE FOR SALE – GLENDALE, CA
Retiring from part-time practice averaging 15 hours a week practice, grossing well over $130,000 a year. No HMO, PPO or hospital surgeries (but located 20 minutes from 5 major area hospitals). Only accepting private insurance, Medicare and cash. Not participating in the diabetic shoe program. Unique practice specializing in off label liquid SILICONE injections (no insurance…cash only), Cryoneuroablation, x-rays, ultrasound imaging, Lixiscope, soft tissue surgeries, and some palliative care. In same great location, in the center of everything for the past 43 years. Unlimited potential. Call….818-384-2479
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - 10 WATT LASER
10 watt laser. Hardly ever used 9K Still under warranty. E mail Dr. Zuckerman at: footcare@comcast.net. for questions and pricing .
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,500 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 14,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $119 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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| 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.
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