The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

November 03, 2011 #4,296 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Housecalls Will be More Cost-Effectove Under New Medicare Program: IL Podiatrist
 
A pilot program, which starts in January, will test whether providing coordinated care at home reduces costs. Participating doctors and nurses will be able to share in the cost-savings as an incentive, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Podiatrist Dr. Monty Peerbhai said the reason why there are so few doctors who offer house calls now is because the Medicare or private insurance reimbursement doesn't currently cover costs. But by being able to share in the cost savings they achieve, physicians have an opportunity to increase their revenue -- under the new provision.

Dr. Monty Peerbhai (Photo: Tanya Flores)

 

Peerbhai said house calls are not currently cost-effective. "It is not the best way to increase revenue," he said. "You have to drive out to the house. You can only see 10 to 12 people a day. In the office, I can see 25 patients a day." But Peerbhai has a strong sense that house calls are worth the added expense. "I'm serving the needs of patients who otherwise would be underserved," he said.

Source: Taya Flores, Jconline.com [10/31/11]

NYSPMA Podiatrists EducateThe Public For Diabetes Month

Every 30 seconds, a lower limb is lost to diabetes somewhere in the world. People with diabetes are more prone to develop foot infections, called foot ulcers, which can quickly result in amputation. Preventing amputation means knowing the main warning signs.

Dr. Timothy Sheahan

“Nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes,” said Dr. Timothy Sheahan, president of the Southern Tier Division of the NYSPMA. “During November, foot specialists across the state are working to educate patients on the important role regular foot exams are in managing diabetes, helping to save limbs and lives, he added.”

Source: WBGH NBC-TV - 34 (Binghamton, NY) [10/31/11]

AR Podiatrist Re-Appointed to State Board of Podiatric Medicine

Gov. Mike Beebe today re-appointed Dr. John Robinette, of Sheridan  to the Arkansas Board of Podiatric Medicine. The appointment expires Sept. 1, 2014.

Dr. John Robinette

Robinette graduated from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences - Des Moines, IA and completed his residency at Doctors Hospital in New Boston, TX. He is board certified by the  American Board of Podiatric Surgery.

Source: Arkansas News [11/1/11]

NH Podiatrist Aiming to Collect 2,000 Pairs of Shoes

Exeter Hospital Core Podiatry employees are collecting shoes for charity. The workers are collecting the shoes for Soles4Souls, which provides free shoes to people in need all over the world. The organization says it gives away a pair of shoes every seven seconds, and that Americans have 1.5 billion pairs of unused shoes lying in their closets. 

Dr. James Dolan

“We talk with patients about shoes each day, and often have patients bring in multiple pairs of shoes to be evaluated,” said Dr. Jim Dolan, of Core Podiatry. “Collecting gently worn shoes is a natural fit for a podiatrist’s office and a great way to help people who really need shoes. "Last year we collected over 1,600 pairs of shoes, and this year we hope to collect more than 2,000 pairs.”

Source: Jason Claffey, Exerter Patch [11/1/11]

Make No Mistake About Mistakes

Mistakes happen, but belittling the behavior and doling out blame fosters deception and procrastination when no one wants to confess. Practice these habits to establish a work environment that handles mistakes professionally and effectively:

• Make employees feel safe. Express your appreciation when employees show courage and speak up. Indicate that promptly pointing out small mistakes prevents the situation from escalating into a more challenging problem.
• Acknowledge that you don’t know all the answers. Your role as a leader includes consulting with your staffers before making informed decisions. Show that you depend on their knowledge, expertise, and feedback.   
• Learn from mistakes. Thoroughly evaluate the situation to understand how the error happened. Identify how to avoid making the mistakes again.

Source: Adapted from Tanveer Naseer, “5 Questions to Figure Out How Well You Manage Mistakes” via the Organized Executive

Decline in Doctor Office Visits Could be Permanent

The number of visits patients make to physicians in a given month -- a vital sign for the whole healthcare economy -- has been declining consistently, according to multiple tracking studies, companies, and researchers. According to a Thomson Reuters survey, September physician office visits were down 8% compared with September 2010, and August visits were down 7% from August 2010. Office visits were down 2.7% in a six-month period ending September 2011, the worst decline since mid-2010.

Analysts say those numbers may not bounce back, even with health system reform. That's because a struggling economy, higher insurance deductibles, and the efforts by health plans and others to reduce utilization have altered patient patterns, perhaps permanently. Patients now often seek office visits -- or any interaction with the health system -- only when a problem can't be ignored.

Source: Emily Berry, AMNews [10/31/11]

Query: EHR Criteria 13

I am trying to qualify for the EHR incentive but have come up against a problem. Criteria 13 requires patient enrollment for electronic  medical record access which requires a patient's e-mail address. Most of my Medicare patients don't have an e-mail address nor are they interested in getting one. An alternative solution would be to print the medical record and provide a copy as they leave, but it's too time-consuming. Any simpler approach or advice would be appreciated.
 
John Moglia, DPM, Berkeley Hts, NJ

RE: Excellent Article on MRI Over-Usage in Sports Medicine (Rich Rettig, DPM)
From: Lawrence Oloff, DPM

I have been intrigued by the negative comments popping up in reference to the recently published article from the New York Times concerning MRIs. Before we move back into medieval medicine, let me make a few comments. Most people reading that article miss the point. Diagnoses are rarely ever reached by tests. They are reached by a combination of the diagnostic acumen of the examiner and pertinent tests.

We don’t treat MRIs; we treat patients! Our studies, whether they be MRI’s, bone scans, or whatever, help to confirm our diagnosis or deny it. Another problem is the quality of the radiologists. Some are astute musculoskeletal radiologists, fellowship-trained, while others are generalists, not sophisticated enough in training or experience to assist us with useful, accurate, and clinically relevant diagnoses. As a result,...

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

RE: The Allopathic Podiatrist (Paul Kruper, DPM)
From: Name Withheld by Editor

I have read the various posts regarding this issue. First of all, for a point of clarity, DPMs practice allopathic medicine but it is limited to a certain anatomical location.

The idea of a full-scope expansion of the DPM degree to become the third physicians (MD,DO, DPM), or obtaining of an MD/DO upon graduation from podiatric medical school or residency has positives and negatives. Personally, I have gone back and forth on the concept. On one hand, achieving an MD would not change the practice of most DPMs. We all know that most of the surgeons in medicine do not...

Editor's note: Name Withheld's extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Super Group Formation in Maryland
From: Jay D. Lifshen, DPM

The concept of grouping has been going on in healthcare for decades. In recent years, the concept has become more popular in podiatry. Podiatry still remains a very fragmented specialty, with most practices being made up of only one or two practitioners. Depending on the market dynamics within a given region, many small practices could benefit from consolidating to survive and thrive in the future.

Over the years, there are several proven legal and accounting structures that can be customized to fit a group’s operational needs, clinical philosophies and regional regulatory requirements. Seventeen months ago, our members merged fifteen practices at the same time and launched...

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

RE: Early Diagnosis of Bunions Can Prevent Surgery (Dennis Shavelson, DPM)
From: Robert Bijak, DPM

Dr. Shavelson lavishly opines on how his system "freezes" bunion formation and impugns Dr. Kiel. He avoids real proof and forgets the main topic. He talks about lecturing about toenails to dermatologists. Let's see some real scientific proof, not anecdotes. If his allegation was accepted scientific theory, all types of providers would be re-imbursed for an effective treatment.

The prevention of bunions with an arch support is not supported. Podiatry is full of myths and self-delusions (MDs don't know anything about the foot, and that we invented and own biomechanics, etc.). Dr. Shavelson is the one who proudly claimed he charges $800 for supports, and I believe he has some interest in an orthotics lab. We need to take these podiatrists' opinions with a large grain of salt.

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

Codingline & PM News
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The Greenbrier Coding & Practice Management Workshop
(Following the 2012 APMA Annual Meeting in Washington, DC)  August 20-22, 2012

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Click Here for information  or  to Register

SUB LEASING TIME on MRI (NYC)

Don't refer out $$ when they can go into your pocket. Beautiful state-of-the-art 5th Avenue medical office is offering lease time on a .31 tesla Esaote extremity MRI, complaint with Stark laws. This particular magnet is the only one accepted by insurances and Medicare as of 2012. For more information email dri@myfcny.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - CRYOPAC, LASER UNITS

1 Cryopac unit for cryosurgery with 3 probes for sale at $1,000 - 1 Class III ML830 nm laser for sale $1,000 - used for pain management and inflammation control, great cash generator.. Contact: klamdpm@hotmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE -  REVO VASCULAR SYSTEM

REVO vascular system for sale, 3 years old, excellent condition, all probes and digit sensors in excellent working condition. Asking $4,000 or best offer. Please contact drkhoury@nefas.us

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – 2 MICROVAS UNITS

2 used Microvas units (approximately 5 years old) for sale at $6,,000 each plus shipping. Each unit includes 1 carrying case, 8 flex cable leads, 1 battery charger. Paid $16,000, for each machine. Great way to add therapy modality to your practice. Contact: DrBlatstein@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - (2) MICRO-VAS UNITS
 
Less than one year old. Barely used and in excellent condition. We have seen remarkable improvement in Diabetic neuropathy, tendonitis, fibromyalgias, and atypical neuropathies. Also works great to reduce limb edema. Can be used for acute & chronic conditions. Selling $10K each, or both for $17.5K. Contact: coastalmgr@gmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - CLASS FOUR LASER- USED K-LASERS

I have used K-laser for sale. Still in Warranty. Used for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, neuroma, arthritic conditions and even fungus toe nails This laser is portable, re-chargeable and can be move from room to room or office to office. This isn't the cold laser that you see. It is a 10 watt laser. We have used this laser on NFL sports players. For those that understand a good laser. E-mail David Zuckerman, DPM for Details and pricing. footcare@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - ENTIRE PUTNAM COUNTY, NY OFFICE

Moving from location. 3 PDM chairs, 3 cabinets, sterilizer, waiting room chairs, surgical light, Stryker power equipment, x-ray view boxes, and all other office furniture. Priced to sell. Available after December 23rd. email marshall39@hotmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE/LEASE - NORTHERN, NJ

Part-time practice for sale or lease. Flexible terms, will consider lease with option for sale. Structured for a fast sale, first option on real estate. Great opportunity for a start-up or satellite with immediate income. Call 201-573-0555 or 551-574-0776 billfeet@aol.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE – NANAIMO, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Have you ever dreamed of owning a practice where...you can see 0-50 patients daily * average 100 new patients monthly * have zero accounts receivable * gross $480 M per year * live in a beautiful community with skiing, hiking, fishing, and boating on your doorstep. This could be yours! If interested contact pistone@telus.net or call 250-754-4192.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - NORTHERN NJ  

Well established, part-time practice is for sale in Northern NJ. Digital X-rays, EMR, located in a medical condo building. Surgery 35%, Routine 30%, Average Gross is $130K on 2 half days per week. Priced for quick sale. Real estate available for purchase. Please call 800-983-4194, or  e-mail  contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHEAST GEORGIA - SAVANNAH

Beautiful weather year round & near the Coast. Opportunity for Early Buy-in. Seeking associate or new residency graduate to join practice. Must be PSR-24/36 trained. Multiple locations. Full range of services with new facilities. E-mail cover letter & CV to melissafoot@pol.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST TENNESSEE

30 year old practice with 5 offices in greater Knoxville area seeking ethical, personable, hardworking, team player. Extremely competitive base salary with bonus incentives and benefits. Knoxville is consistently ranked in top 5 places in U.S. Post-residency experience a plus. Please send resume to ddavidphawk@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA/N.W. FLORIDA- TALLAHASSEE AREA

Home of Florida State University. Great university town! Well established full scope solo physician with busy practice. Looking for a full time associate leading to partnership in a short time. Great general practice with 2 locations. Staff privileges with 2 local hospitals and 2 surgery centers. Offering competitive salary, health insurance. Will need forefoot and rearfoot surgical competency. Friendly office with fun staff that’s easy to work with. Call/Text – 850-510-4371.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

Multi-office group seeks highly trained surgical associate to join us. Prefer person with frame and trauma experience. Our practice is state-of-the-art and has all modalities: EMR, PadNnet, on-site billing, diagnostic US, PRP, digital x-ray, etc. Excellent salary, bonus structure and benefits with partnership available. Please forward CV and letter of intent to docsbnb@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH WEST FLORIDA

Full-time associate positions for an established group practice in Southwest Florida. Willing to train the right new graduates. Job will involved all aspects of podiatric care. You must be ambitious, hard-working and should have good people skills. Please e-mail your resume/CV to contactus@ankleandfoot.net

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM 

PODIATRY OFFICE TO SHARE - SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

 Fully equipped podiatry office in North Gate area of Seattle. Office located in medical professional building near I-5. Office has 3 treatment rooms, 3 physical therapy rooms, direct digital x-ray, PAD- net, NCV testing equipment, physical therapy equipment. Please contact us: website Tel. 425-643-8901 isbinc2006@gmail.com

FOOT SKELETONS FOR SALE

The Anthropology Department at St. John Fisher College (Rochester, New York) has many sets of specimen-quality, disarticulated human foot (and hand) skeletons. The department (NYDOH licensed) is selling them to institutions that will use them in medical research or instruction to support an endowed fund for a lectureship series. Contact:  Dr. John Rhoades, Chair, Anthropology Department, St. John Fisher College, Rochester, NY 14618 jrhoades@sjfc.edu

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 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. Weekly ad rates start as low as $109 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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