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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 18,452 Subscribers Daily
October 31, 2018 #6,298  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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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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Which test(s) do you use to confirm onychomycosis?
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| AT THE COLLEGES - PART 1 | |
NYCPM’S 2018 Alumni Gala Honors Four and Reunites Anniversary Classes
Over 200 attendees of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM) 2018 Alumni Gala celebrated four honorees, saluted the anniversary classes of 1958, 1960, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008 and 2013, and had an all-around great time. Members of the class of 1988 had the biggest showing but all were well represented.
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(L-R) Drs. Arthur Gudeon, Krupa Patel, Patricia Nicholas, and Joseph D'Amico |
The four honorees – Dr. Joseph D’Amico, named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year; Dr. Arthur Gudeon, Class of 1960, winner of the Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Patricia Nicholas, Class of 1993, honored with the Alumni Outstanding Service Award; and Dr. Krupa Patel, Class of 2008, selected for the Alumni Rising Star Award – represented a spread of more than 40 years of NYCPM history.
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| AT THE COLLEGES - PART 2 | |
TUSPM Makes 27th Appearance at the 43rd Annual Marine Corps Marathon
Nine American Academy of Podiatric sports Medicine (AAPSM) Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine (TUSPM) chapter students traveled to Arlington, VA over the weekend for the 43rd annual Marine Corps Marathon. The students had the opportunity to work in the medical tents alongside physicians, physical therapists, nurses, and medics from the Naval Health Clinic at Quantico.
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Third-year students Madeleine Barbe and Kyle Miller |
The weather turned out to be perfect for running, but the students treated a variety of injuries under the guidance of clinical associate professor Howard Palamarchuk DPM. The students also had the ability to triage care with other medical professionals gaining valuable experience about comprehensive care of athletes.
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY | |
IL Podiatrist Joins SSM Health Medical Group
SSM Health Medical Group has announced the addition of Tyler Wishau, DPM, podiatric surgeon, to its specialty care medical team. Wishau is a fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon whose expertise is in performing forefoot surgery, rearfoot surgery, and total ankle replacement.
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Dr. Tyler Wishau |
Dr. Wishau earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at the Des Moines University College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. He served as chief resident during his surgical residency at SSM DePaul Health Center in St. Louis. He is an associate member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Source: Southern Business Journal [10/28/18]
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
Back Office Billing Strategies - Part 5
5. Conduct patient flow analyses regularly. Time is money, and any time there is a patient flow problem, it costs the practice. The office manager or practice manager should analyze patient flow for all services provided, find problems, and identify ways to streamline the processes. For example, you might perform a patient flow study. This will tell you how long it takes patients to complete the check-in process and be placed in the exam room. This will help you track and streamline processes at the front desk. A shorter check-in process can improve patient satisfaction and help keep providers from falling behind schedule.
Source: Avery Hurt, Physicians Practice [10/15/18]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: Nail Debridement Blues
Here in Pennsylvania, the “Blue” plans (Highmark, Capitol Blue Cross) have traditionally covered CPTs 11720-11721 when billed with a diagnosis of hypertrophic or deformed toenails (onychogryphosis) using codes L60.2 and L60.3. However, the diagnosis of mycotic or fungal nails (B35.1) is not traditionally successful. No class findings or “pain” diagnoses (M79.674 or M79.675) are necessary. This was “regular business” back in the day, not for Medicare Advantage plans.
Now I am getting rejections on several Highmark PPO patients, all under 65 years old, not on disability, not Medicare Advantage, etc. The reason for rejection is code of 07: rejected and non-billable. I don’t mind a policy change but non-billable? Is this a carrier mistake? My billing service, ever eager to write things off and not investigate following a re-submission with notes (which was done), has no answer. What am I missing?
PM News Subscriber
Response: I suggest that you need to demonstrate in your diagnosis coding that the patient qualifies for foot care. There are two paths by which they can qualify. One is with a qualifying diagnosis and class findings. If the patient has both of these and qualifies for at-risk foot care, I suggest you code both the condition of the nails and the qualifying diagnosis. Examples of qualifying diagnoses include diabetes and PAD. The other path by which patients can qualify for foot care is by having both onychomycosis and symptoms of pain, limitation of ambulation, or secondary infection as a result of the onychomycosis. If they qualify by this path, I suggest you code both the onychomycosis and the secondary condition.
Jeffrey D Lehrman, DPM, CPC, Fort Collins, CO
For information on Codingline subscriptions, click here
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1 | |
From: PICA, Name Withheld
Providers may or may not charge for copies and supplies necessary to copy depending upon the stipulations in the contract with payors. PICA recommends that you check your contract with the payor to determine if you can charge for charts being requested for audits.
PICA
I have gotten requests from Ciox a few times. On one occasion, I sent them an invoice of $25/chart for around ten charts. They did send a check. More recently, they requested four charts. I again sent an invoice but have not heard back from them. This was a few months ago. Still waiting. Did not send charts. I don’t want to give erroneous information but I believe a practitioner is entitled to get paid for this before sending chart requests.
Name Withheld
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 | |
From: Danae L. Lowell, DPM
It’s important to note that data quoted from salary.com and the annual PM survey are anecdotal and do not in any way accurately reflect current salary ranges. If we are going to have an educated discussion on current salaries, data from MGMA and Sullivan Cotter should be utilized. This is officially validated data that provides accurate salary ranges in quartiles and most importantly delineates between surgical and non-surgical practices. It also goes beyond solo practitioners and includes hospital appointments, group practices, and VA salaries.
Quoting an annual median income for solo practitioner of $123,250 does nothing to promote the practice of podiatry. Indeed, it negatively represents the field. The true scope of practice possibilities and financial prosperity available to today’s podiatrist far exceed the solo practitioner making $123,250. Podiatrists completing a 3-year PMSR, PMSR/RRA residency and advanced fellowship programs have training worthy of much higher salaries and they are getting them.
Regarding the relatively new associate, the $192,738 is within the range of validated data depending on quartile and scope of practice. Pay him what he is worth according to validated data and performance.
Danae L. Lowell, DPM, Cleveland, OH
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) - PART 1 | |
From: Janet McCormick
In reference to Dr. Biernacki's comment on medical pedicures, his description of the medical pedicure being 5 minutes cannot be true, but it can be for a trimming service. Even if a medical nail technician or podiatrist is performing the 5 minute service he describes, it still should be listed as a trimming. Clip, clip, the patient is gone (though a culture can be taken also to determine fungus or a bacterial disease).
Only if a massage, nail trimming/shaping, callus reduction, and moisture application is included does it meet the definition of a...
Editor's Note: Ms. McCormick's extended-length letter can be read here.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) - PART 2 | |
From: Aakruti Bhalja, DPM
I must disagree with a statement made regarding the contribution of yoga to the development or exacerbation of plantar fasciitis. Though there are advanced levels of yoga that may be far too demanding for those who are unstable or disabled, most poses can be easily modified or designed to be suitable for almost anyone. In addition to proper arch support during ambulation, improving flexibility in the gastrocnemius complex and regaining strength in the posterior tibial tendon are critical to the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Evidence-based research is highly supportive of the ability of yoga to not only improve physical function and muscle-specific lower extremity strength, but also to decrease depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
Aakruti Bhalja, DPM, Hamilton, NJ
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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Perfect for trick or treating! |
Source: etsy
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MEETING NOTICES
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| CLASSIFIED ADS PART 1 - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE |
PRACTICE FOR SALE – BLOOMINGTON, IN
A well-established, profitable 47 year-old podiatry practice is for sale in Bloomington, Indiana. All office equipment and inventory is separately for sale, including but not limited to a digital x-ray, c-arm, laser, and power chairs. Inquires can be made to blmpodiatry@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - WESTERN WASHINGTON
30 year established practice in Auburn Washington. In medical office building connected to hospital. Practice scope includes clinic, hospital-based surgery, and hospital consultations. Forefoot, rearfoot, and ankle surgery. Will stay on three months during transition. Contact/send resume to Dgusman@hotmail.com
SPACE AVAILABLE – NY AND LONG ISLAND
Offices available to sublet and share, Manhattan and North Shore Long Island. Offices fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment extremity MRI, foot/ankle CT scanner, diagnostic ultrasound and the availability to become a staff member of a certified ambulatory surgical center. Call 1516 476-1815 podo2345@aol.com
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 16,500 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 16,500 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, TEXAS
Busy podiatry practice seeks motivated DPM to join our team. Amazing opportunity for someone looking to grow with us. Incredible company culture. Suburban outpatient practice in an active part of town. Sports medicine and lots of kids. No weekends or hospital call. Interested applicants invited to send CV's to: HoustonDPMJob@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
Seeking a dedicated, hard-working podiatrist to join our practice in Birmingham, Alabama. Must demonstrate compassion for patient needs, close attention to detail and thrive in collaborative environment. This position includes a competitive compensation and benefits package with dental, health, and vision coverage. Please email CV to podiatrymanagementinc@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY
Our busy, multi-office practice is still growing and needs another doctor who understands the importance of creating an amazing patient experience as much as providing great medical care. You will be working with supportive doctors and staff who are committed to your success. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.
MULTI-LOCATION GROUP - CHICAGO/NEAR WEST SUBURBS
Seeking F.T. ABFAS Board Certified/Eligible associate- P.T. available. MINIMUM 2 year practice experience required. Surgical/ortho patients. Great staff. DME, MIS, EMR, ultrasound, PRP, shockwave, digital x-ray, laser, sx center & Physical Therapy- Top pay, associateship & practice equity available for experienced candidates. Contact podiatryoffer@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – FLORIDA
Join a podiatric team whose work positively impacts the lives of seniors every day! KG Health Partners, the largest podiatric practice in Florida, is seeking full- and part-time podiatrists who will provide mobile-based foot, ankle, and lower leg care to residents living in more than 200 long-term facilities throughout Florida. Achieve work-life balance with a Monday through Friday schedule, competitive wages, malpractice insurance, and exceptional benefits (health, paid time off, 401K retirement plan with company match). You must maintain active Medicare and Florida licenses. Email CV to kgadmin@kghealthpartners.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
www.martinfootandankle.com is looking for a well-trained, personable, energetic associate interested in future partnership with our successful team. Practice is high volume, high tech and full scope. ASC investment opportunities available. Practice facilities include: five office locations, four Physical Therapy gyms and two shoe stores. Competitive compensation and benefits. Those interested, please send letter of interest and CV to: hr@martinfootandankle.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 - WASHINGTON, DC
Growing, well-established practice seeking well-trained, hard-working surgical trained podiatrist. Practice with concentration in foot & ankle surgery as well as sports medicine. Excellent referral base. Downtown location. Full benefits package. Please send CV to WDCDPM@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
Busy two physician practice in Upstate South Carolina seeking highly motivated, ethical associate. PSR-36 trained. High surgery case load. Competitive benefits & salary. Send CV to upstatescpodiatry@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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- 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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