The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

November 03, 2010 #4,000 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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PM News Publishes 4,000th Edition

This marks the 4,000th issue of PM News. For over 16 years, it has been our privilege to provide the podiatric community with a daily newsletter containing news, coding and billing information, as well as an interactive forum for a discussion of issues important to this profession. In short, we have attempted to keep everyone on the same page and give them a voice. We are proud to be the longest running periodical of this type serving any profession.

PM News Editor Dr. Barry Block, circa 1995

We would like to thank all those who have made this endeavor a success, especially our readers, who have provided us with a continuous stream of provocative questions and informative responses. Contributers are the lifeblood of this publication. We’d also like to thank Hermine Block, who copy edits each issue, our strategic partner Codingline.com (Harry Goldsmith, DPM), and our webmaster Al Musella, DPM for their vital daily assistance. Finally, we’d like to thank our many sponsors for their continuous support.

NJ Podiatrist Honored by CEC and CPME

David George, DPM, ABPOPPM  Past President, was recently honored by the Continuing Education Committee (CEC) and the Council  on  Podiatric Education (CPME) for serving on the Continuing Education Committee  for the past six years.  Dr. George was presented  with a plaque “in recognition of significant contributions to the progress of the Continuing Education Committee 2004-2010."

Dr. David George

The CPME has delegated to the CEC Committee responsibility for recommending the Council's approval of sponsors of continuing education in podiatric education. This  committee reviews applications, petitions for continuing approval, evaluation reports, progress reports, and other information  submitted by the sponsors within its review area.

LA County Society Fundraiser Raises $12,000 for CAL PPAC

The LA County Podiatric Medical Society (LACPMS) held its third annual “One Voice” event on  October 30, 2009 at the Peninsular Hotel in Beverly Hills. Jack Morgan, DPM, Vice President of Central East division of the society developed a concept to strengthen the economic and political power of podiatric medicine. The goal is to raise money for political action and awareness of the strength of the profession when podiatrists speak with one common voice.

(L-R) LACPMA President Dr. Vladimir Zeetzer with One Voice Chair, Dr. Jack Morgan

Dr. Comfort and Blaine Laboratories returned this year with new sponsors BAKO Labs, Direct Medical, and AFLAC. L.A. County podiatrists who attended the event donated $299 per couple to CalPPAC. The evening included elegant dining and entertainment. The event raised an additional $12,000 for LACPMS.

NY Podiatrist Kicks Off Charity Shoe Drive

Dr. Bruce Pinker, a podiatrist in Pomona, NY is conducting his annual holiday shoe drive through Dec. 10. All types of shoes including sneakers, boots and sandals for men, women, and children may be brought to his office.

Dr. Bruce Pinker

Pinker holds the drive to help homeless people who are unable to purchase shoes and become the victims of injuries and diseases of the feet including frostbite, gangrene, and other foot infections.

Source: Lohud.com [10/30/10]

Shortages Led to Re-Use of Unsterilized Instruments at MS Podiatric Clinic: VA Report

Last week, the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) transmitted to the President and Congressional oversight committees findings of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) investigation confirming that improperly cleaned and poorly sanitized instruments were distributed to clinics and operating rooms at the VA’s G.V. Montgomery Medical Center (Jackson VAMC) in Jackson, MS.

The report also stated that prior to 2006, providers specifically in the Jackson VAMC podiatry clinic experienced frequent instrument shortages, resulting in the re-use of unsterilized instruments. The agency stated that this problem was resolved by the purchase of additional instruments. A podiatrist was also added to both leadership rounds and the Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) Oversight Committee, and a quality manager was hired for RME.

Source: Infection Control Today [10/29/10]

Tiny Microchip Can Help Doctors Retrieve Sponges

Retained foreign objects, or RFOs, are instruments and tools that surgeons forget inside their patients. About one in every 5,500 patients who underwent surgery at the Mayo Clinic over a three-year period was wheeled into the recovery room with a forgotten object inside, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The most common RFO is the surgical sponge, even though these sponges are manually counted before and after surgery. Studies have shown that in more than 80 percent of the cases where sponges are left inside patients, the manual counts in the operating rooms were correct.

Doctors and private industry are seeking solutions. In an effort to eliminate counting errors, UNC Health Care teamed with RF Surgical Systems, a company near Seattle, in a study using microchipped surgical sponges. The microchip is the size of a rice grain. Sewn into the sponge, it sends out a radio frequency that a surgeon can pick up with a wand before the end of an operation. Any microchipped sponge hiding in a patient gives off a beep that helps the surgeon avoid having to cut open the patient a second time.

Source: Sabine Vollmer, charlotteobserver [10/31/10]

Query: Emesco Handpiece Repair

I have an Emesco No. 6 handpiece that needs to be repaired. Does anyone know of a company that does this type of work? 
 
David Finkelstein, DPM, Oak Lawn, IL

RE: Dr. Robert Frykberg on Meet the Masters
From: Stephanie Michael, DPM

I had the great opportunity to be one of Dr. Frykberg's residents a few years ago. It was an incredible experience. He is a huge asset to our profession through his research, lectures and his residency directorship. He truly cares about training his residents and students.

Even after being out for 5+ years, I still rely on everything he taught me when I am seeing patients or in the OR. Thank you, Dr. Frykberg, for your enormous contributions to our profession and to my career. You truly are one of the masters!
 
Stephanie Michael, DPM, Marietta, GA, samichael2002@yahoo.com

RE: Yellow Pages Listings in South Florida (Dale Feinberg, DPM)
From: Pete Harvey, DPM   

Although I agree with Dr. Feinberg that the Yellow Pages are becoming a moot issue, there may be a broader concern. I became interested in podiatry politics in the early seventies over this same issue. At that time, Southwestern Bell Yellow Pages had podiatry listed after the plumbing section. Through the actions of the TPMA Board of Directors, we were able to change the listing alphabetically to Physicians and Surgeons D.O., D.P.M, and M.D. respectively. That correction lasted for about twenty years. However, the Board at Yellow Pages, several years ago, reversed themselves and reverted to the old, non-alphabetical format. Although D.P.M is now still listed under Physicians and Surgeons, we are at the BACK, after MDs. As I have told Yellow Pages and my local politicians, this is discrimination all over again.

In the seventies, the newly formed Foot and Ankle Society published a series of small books. In the prologue of the first of the series, a contributor flatly stated, “We will bury podiatry.” At every turn, forces are at work to do exactly that. The Yellow Pages issue is only the tip of the iceberg. No podiatrist should ever forget that. vigilance is the price of freedom.

Pete Harvey, DPM, Wichita Falls, TX, pmh@wffeet.com

Query: Integra Bilayer Matrix Dressing

Could anybody tell me the appropriate CPT codes to use for the application of Integra Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing?

Robson Araujo, DPM, Cullman, AL

Response: CPT 15175-15176 codes represent acellular dermal replacement on the foot/digits for products such as Integra.

CPT 15175 has a 90-day Medicare global. This code allows for separate billing of wound prep/debridement codes. Multiple applications are allowed with a modifier.

The supply codes are Q4104, Q4105, Q4108.

You should read any LCD or medical policy that the payer plan has on skin substitutes to ensure you will get paid for using the product on the foot/digits for the presenting conditions.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

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

RE: Pharmaceutical Companies Detailing Podiatrists
From: Robert M Cropper, DPM

I also have not seen any reps in a long time. I feel strongly that I am able, by way of my education and training, to recognize the difference between objective information and the self-serving claims of the drug company/rep. I feel no guilt for taking pens, notepads, samples, etcetera, and being able to supply my patients with samples before they spend a small fortune on what might be an ineffective medication.
 
Robert M Cropper, DPM, Sarasota, FL, Ftdrbob@aol.com

RE: PM News Publishes 4,000th Edition
From: Bret Ribotsky, DPM, Larry Kollenberg, DPM, Pharm D

I want to congratulate PM News and Dr. Block on reaching the historic milestone of 4,000 issues. This is an incredible accomplishment, especially when we consider that this virtual newspaper to the profession is put out by a single individual (with some copy editing by his wife.). No other specialty has an interactive communications vehicle that even comes close to PM News.
 
We are alive in the greatest period of time EVER…… and through it all, Dr. Block with his bride, have provided us almost real-time help with almost any situation that could develop in our practices. I also want to thank all those podiatrists who regularly contribute to PM News. Together through Barry’s leadership, we have built a “village” that could tackle any obstacle forthcoming.
 
4,000  issues - "a labor of love" says Barry, that evolved into a much needed business. Each morning, PM News is the first e-mail that I read, and I look forward to reading issue #8,000 from a place of medical equality and financial success for all my brothers and sisters in our great profession.

Bret Ribotsky, DPM, Boca Raton, FL

As one of the multitude who have worked with you over the years, I would like to take this time to congratulate you on the 4000th edition of PM News. Over the past two plus decades, it has always been a pleasure to know you, work with you, and have a small part in the tremendous undertaking that you have compiled for the profession. May you continue always with the great service you provide to everyone.

Larry Kollenberg, DPM, Pharm D, Baltimore, MD 

RE: PA Podiatrist is Among Doctors Paid By Pharmaceutical Companies on Posted Database (Alan Sherman, DPM)
From: Bryan Markinson, DPM

Dr. Alan Sherman hits the major points right on the head regarding this invasion of privacy for those on the lecture circuit. However, these "public interest" groups are not the end of this particular attempt to have doctors' income from industry divulged. Major academic centers, like the one I am currently in, are proposing that all of its faculty list their industry income on the hospital's website voluntarily. The word "voluntarily" is used loosely, because if it is approved, it will be mandatory.

This all stems from studies done by elitists that conclude unequivocally that physicians are influenced to...

Editor's note: Dr. Markinson's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Patient Balances and Rescheduling Office Visits (Name Withheld)
From: Lynn Homisak, PRT

Rather than deal with this after the fact...I'd like to suggest tackling this problem with a more proactive approach. The questions I would research are these: Why are you having so many of these types of problems in the first place? Do you have a financial policy? Is it a good one? Is it personally reviewed with the patients, and do they sign off on it stating that they understand their financial obligations up-front? Do you check their benefits and implement a policy to collect deductibles, co-pays and co-insurances at their visits? Do you have the right person at your front desk who is skilled in proper collection technique?

It is always much harder to collect on the back end (everything seems to take precedence over the medical bill!), so making the extra effort at the time of their appointment and putting certain systems in place to avoid that statement down the road is always the most effective plan. I will share  "7 Steps to Collecting Your Money" with PM News readers. Just write to me. 

Lynn Homisak, PRT, Renton, WA, lynn@soshms.com

RE: Ridiculous Shoes - Part 3

Perfect for lounging around the pool?

Source: Submitted by Dr. David Secord

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Immediate opening for the right candidate. Join a well-established podiatric group in Southwest Florida. We are a multi-office practice with EMR, Digital x-ray, and more. Seeking full-time associate that is PM and S-36 trained, personable, independent and highly motivated individual. Must be BC/BS in rearfoot and ankle with confidence in complex reconstructive cases. Full benefits package, competitive salary, excellent lifestyle. Please respond to JLH459@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA

Busy, surgically-oriented practice in Bakersfield, CA seeks ABPS qualified/certified surgeon to join our existing two surgeons. Must be hard-working and honest. Strong reconstructive surgical practice with trauma privileges and wound care center/diabetic limb salvage center. Starting in December or January. E-mail CV to aghams2@aol.com

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 Ohiodoctors@aol.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

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTH, CENTRAL & SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Quality Podiatry Group provides quality services to residents at long term care facilities. We are currently offering full-time or part-time positions for motivated ethical podiatrists. Immediate openings are available. If interested, fax curriculum vitae to 847-674-2113 or e-mail to feetwork@aol.com

ASSOCIATION POSITION - MARYLAND AND DC

Immediate opportunity to join our group in Maryland and DC. Will consider full or part-time. Our practice is general podiatric care with a heavy slant on sports medicine/orthotics. In-office ASC. Must be PSR 24-36. Send cover letter and CV to hgodpm@verizon.net

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

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.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN MI (NOT DETROIT!)

Associate To Partner Position-Salary/Bonus/ Benefits. Part of podiatrist group. All phases of surgery, forefoot/rear foot/ankle…whatever you want. Great chance of obtaining all cases needed for board certification in your first year! Area has lots of lakes, change of seasons, within a couple hours of Chicago. If interested email: paulapmac@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PHILADELPHIA, SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

Seeking motivated, independent foot & ankle surgeon to join large practice. Our multi-office practice covers all aspects of foot and ankle pathology, including heavy hospital volume. Offering competitive salary and benefit package. Send CV and two references to bleich5252@yahoo.com

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

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.

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

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 - CONNECTICUT

Outstanding solo practice for sale in northern Fairfield county, CT. Shared space with other medical professionals. Very low overhead. Grossing almost $300K on 30 hours per week. Referrals from three different primary care physician offices. If interested e-mail CTPodiatry@gmail.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

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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