The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

November 18, 2011 #4,309 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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AZ Podiatrist Participates in IHS Diabetes Panel

Physicians, surgeons and nurses from across the country dedicated to healthcare for Native Americans gathered today in Phoenix to discuss collective methods to improve wound care and amputation prevention.  Dr. John Ferris and Ms. Pat Stevenson joined Dr. David G. Armstrong, Professor of Surgery and Director of the University of Arizona's Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance, on the expert panel. 

Dr. David Armstrong

Dr. Ferris and Ms. Steveson shared their leadership experience in forming a highly successful wound healing program within the Oklahoma City area Indian Health Service (IHS) community which has now begun a nationwide rollout. "Coordination is key. What we'd like to see are these hugely successful programs emulated across the IHS. Improving access to cutting-edge care while reducing costs by four-fold is both good medicine and good sense," said Armstrong.

PA Podiatrist Sponsors Name the Mascot Poll

The Lehigh Valley Steelhawks are proud to announce that they will have an official team mascot for the 2012 season. The name of the mascot will strictly be decided by the fans.

Dr. Thomas Rocchio

The Mascot poll is presented by PA Podiatry and Dr. Thomas M. Rocchio. Dr. Rocchio is one of two designers of a unique external fixation frame utilized by hundreds of foot and ankle surgeons across the United States and is also a specialist in sports injuries.

Source: Our Sports Central [11/16/11]

CA Podiatrist Recommends Carpooling and Route Planning to Save Gas

If you haven't done it since grade school, reconsider carpooling. Dr. David Rizzo, a 60-year-old Los Angeles podiatrist and transportation expert known as Dr. Roadmap, calls it "the best possible way to immediately cut your driving costs in half." Alternating drivers saves gas (one rider doubles your passenger miles per gallon*) and reduces vehicle wear.

Dr. David Rizzo

Rizzo, alas, can't follow his own advice: He averages 100 miles a day seeing patients around Los Angeles. For solo drivers, route planning is key. Instead of multiple short hops, pack several trips into one longer errand, and drive to your farthest destination first (that also gets the engine warm, so it runs most efficiently).

Source: Joe Eaton, AARP The Magazine [November 2011]

FL Podiatrist Arrested Again on Drug Charges

A podiatrist arrested in August on charges of forging prescriptions to obtain oxycodone and other medications was arrested again Wednesday for reportedly doing the same thing. Dr. Boyd Allen Robinson, 44 turned himself in at the Charlotte County Jail. He faces two felony charges.

Sarasota County detectives arrested Boyd in August on six counts of fraud and one count of forgery.

Source: Herald Tribune [11/16/11]

Set up a Calendar That Works - Part 2

Manage your time effectively in 2012. Choose the right calendar for your work style and plan now how you will use it. Follow these guidelines:

•  Schedule yourself first. Before you begin filling in other appointments, block out time for yourself to work on important projects. Doing so ensures that you have enough time for that work. Key: Reserve the days and times when you are most alert for the tasks that require your full concentration.
•  Adopt routines. Ensure that nothing slips through the cracks and you aren’t pushing tasks back each week. Set regular times for dealing with common tasks, such as managing your email and managing your files.
•  Widen the view. Adopt a habit of looking ahead on your calendar at least once a week. Check the following week and two months ahead to prepare for what is coming up.

Source: Adapted from Communication Briefings [December 2011]

Query: Request for Records When Balance is Outstanding

A patient came to me once and did not pay her bill. Now, she wants a copy of her record. Can I tell her that the record can not be given to her until her balance is paid in full? Also, can I charge for providing copies of the record?

Sean S. Ravaei, DPM, Beverly Hills, CA

Editor's Comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. Under HIPAA and most state laws, podiatrists are required to provide a copy of a patient's chart within a reasonable time after the request is made regardless of whether any money is due. The amount that you can charge per page is generally regulated by your state law.

Query: Wavelengths for Laser Treatment of Onychomycosis

Some lasers have dual wavelengths; some only have one. Some of the machines run at the same wavelength; some at different wavelengths. Can someone tell me is there one wavelength (that the literature shows) best for onychomycosis, or will any of these wavelengths work? Are dual wavelengths necessary? Why do some wavelengths require fewer or more treatments?
 
Jeffrey Kass, DPM, Forest Hills, NY

RE: MRIs and Hardware Placement (David Weiss, DPM)
From: Charles Lombardi, DPM

There is NO contra-indication to using MRI with screws or plates. Titanium is not ferrous, and thus not magnetic. The same is true for the high quality stainless steel used in implantable surgical hardware. 

Charles Lombardi, DPM, Bayside, NY, ChazDPM@aol.com

RE: Podcast Defining Who We Are
From: Ira M. Baum, DPM
 
I listened to an ACFAS podcast this afternoon, and it motivated me to ask myself, "What are podiatrists?" All members on the panel of the podcast identified themselves as foot and ankle surgeons, not as  podiatrists. I am board-certified by ABPS and a Fellow in ACFAS. I consider myself a podiatrist. I am not ashamed to be a podiatrist.

I am strongly in favor of a change in the status of our profession to an allopathic or osteopathic degree, but we’re not there yet. The last time I looked at my professional diploma, the title Doctor of Podiatric Medicine appeared. I proudly display it in my office and consider myself a podiatrist. As far as I know, credentials as a foot and ankle surgeon will not allow you to practice medicine or surgery in any of the 50 states and associated protectorates.
 
Ira M. Baum, DPM, Miami, FL, ibaumdpm@bellsouth.net

RE: NY Podiatrist Performs Sinus Tarsi Implant Surgery on Ecuadorian
From: Arnold B. Wolf, DPM

It is always nice to see successful outcomes, be they performed as a charitable endeavor (as seen in this article) or, through the normal course of our respective private/hospital practices. My concern is with what appears to be a "fast and loose" definition of what a dislocated subtalar joint is. In point of fact, subtalar joint dislocation is an extremely rare phenomenon, and probably the result of a high velocity injury. Furthermore, it would seem to defy logic that the insertion of an arthroesis implant would be the cure for that horrific diagnosis. I assume that the pathology surmised from this article would be more consistent with a symptomatic hypermobile pes valgus. If I were to take what I think is a logical extension for the use of this treatment, perhaps we should consider this treatment for vertical talus - arguably a congental subtalar dislocation (please note the sarcasm).

My concern with this posting is not that the procedure was performed (or the concern that the diagnosis of "subtalar dislocation" may be the tool to "justify" a CPT code {28585} that is payable - noting that the previous S2119 is typically a non-reimbursible code), but with dissemination of information within a "professional community" that may not withstand the scutiny that "community" should place on such articles.
 
Arnold B. Wolf, DPM, Sterling Heights, MI, omnifootcare@prodigy.net

RE: Early Diagnosis of Bunions Can Prevent Foot Surgery (Kevin Kirby, DPM)
From: Dennis Shavelson, DPM

It’s rare that Dr. Kevin Kirby and I (and the East and West Coast) agree when debating biomechanics. I thank him for his reinforcement of my statements in order to unite, and promote the need for a new level playing field for biomechanics.

His last post, coupled with his article in Podiatry Today asking candidly “Is Root Biomechanics Dead?” place us both on the same page.

I believe that we agree that subtalar joint neutral biomechanics and subtalar joint neutral joint casting is no longer a viable...

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

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. 425-643-8901isbinc2006@gmail.com

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

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

CPME-CERTIFIED WOUND CARE FELLOWSHIP

Open position available Jan.31, 2012. St. John`s Episcopal Hospital, Far Rockaway New York. State-of-the-art wound care center. All aspects of wound care including hyperbaric oxygen & reconstructive surgery. One year, excellent salary & benefits. Must have completed approved residency and passed boards. Contact Mariann (718) 869-7256

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - SUPERPULSE 45 WATT PEAK POWER LASER ( LUMIX2)

Superpulse 45 watt peak power Laser ( lumix2) used once or twice. This is a real superpulse 910nw up to 100,000 HZ. Great Laser Used in the super bowl by the Green Bay Packer Why am I selling? I have too many lasers in my office now ( six) This is a great laser for plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendonitis. Lightweight portable. easy to use, fully programmable Sold to first person under $$12,000 You will NEVER get a laser like this at this price. Enjoy. it I just have too many lasers. David Zuckerman DPMfootcare@comcast.net

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

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 $480K 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.

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 - MARYLAND

Looking for 3rd associate. Must be personable, well trained and highly motivated. Great locations in Southern Maryland, including an Ambulatory Surgical Center. We currently have EHR, digital radiography, dispensing center and PADNet. Looking for immediate hire! Please send CV to: myfeetfeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST TENNESSEE

30 year old practice with 5 offices in greater Knoxville area seeking ethical, personable, hardworking, team player. $160,000 base salary with bonus incentives and benefits. Post-residency experience a plus. Please send resume to ddavidphawk@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Well established, expanding podiatric medical and surgical practice with multiple locations Northeast of Dallas, Texas. Modern offices with EHR, digital radiography, Padnet vascular studies and laser. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package for a motivated, ethical, personable and well trained PSR/36 or board equivalent. This individual will also assist managing the residency program. Send resume (CV) to northtexaspodiatry@yahoo.com along with a letter of intent

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 CAROLINA

Upstate practice seeking PSR-24/36 trained associate. Full-time position with  partnership opportunity. Must be ethical, highly-motivated with strong surgical and medical skills. Please send CV topalpodiatry@att.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS PERMANENT P/T

Podiatrist needed for Medinah Spine/Rehab/Podiatry. Upper middle class suburb multi-disciplinary established office seeks perm P/T podiatrist to service established podiatry practice. Please call SueL 630-529-0077 or fax resume to: 630-529-0087.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA / BAY AREA
 
We’re looking for someone entrepreneurial who can help grow our practice. Must have great people skills, clinical/surgical skills, and positive demeanor. California license required. Send your CV and cover letter to cvpodiatrist@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 24-36 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977 Diane Coulter, Office Manager

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK CITY/ LONG ISLAND

Seeking an ethical, competent, and responsible associate with a minimum of board qualification, who is proficient in all facets of podiatric medicine, surgery, and biomechanics for a multi-doctor and interdisciplinary medical practice in NYC with suburban NJ/NY satellite offices. Must be able to practice independently with excellent management skills. PT/FT with potential forpartnership.ambulatewell@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BAKERSFIELD, CA

Busy surgically-oriented group in Bakersfield, CA searching for 4th doctor. Wound care center privileges. All 3 current surgeons have 3+ years post-graduate training. Send letter of interest with CV to: aghams2@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - UPSTATE NEW YORK

Outstanding Opportunity. Our medical surgical group is recruiting a well-trained licensed podiatric physician. Located in Beautiful upstate NY. Full hospital privileges, as well as working with two residency programs. Must be highly motivated and great with patients. Opportunity for growth. Competitive salary and benefit package. Please send CV to associateinfoot@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Immediate position for associate to potential partnership available for a surgeon that is BQ/BC by ABPS. Must be a PSR 24 or PM&S 36 graduate. Salary with bonus. Must be ethical, self starter, hard worker and a team player. Willingness to learn and work as part of a great team is a must. Great ancillaries and surgery facility. Email CV to: susmitad86@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN, NJ

Well-rounded practice. No Nursing Homes or House Calls. All phases of foot and ankle care. Must have good surgical skills and like treating patients. Applicants must take care when doing both Surgery and/or Routine Foot Care. Must be ethical, logical and thoughtful when treating patients. This position can lead to purchase of practice. Send CV to ToeBizCenter@Yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.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

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 13,500 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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