The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

November 21, 2012 #4,618 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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FL Podiatrist Helps Cyclist Overcome Injury and Win Title

Steve Agronick was told he was done with competitive bicycling — or any kind of cycling for that matter. The doctors told me, "You’re never going to ride again, you’re going to walk with a limp and you’ll need all kinds of constructive surgery," the Village of Winifred resident said. Agronick said, "No, I can’t accept that.” He also found a doctor who didn’t think he needed surgery.

"I first saw him in 2011. He had been having some problems with his Achilles and nerve impingement,” said Dr. Melissa Verde, a podiatrist based in Longwood. “Instead of surgery, we used stretching, ice, injections, physical therapy, and electrical stimulation. I tried to pull out everything that I had to get him to heal and get him back to his sport.”

Dr. Melissa Verde

Verde’s program worked but she credits Agronick with its ultimate success. I always thought it was possible he’d get better, but to make it all the way back to the level where he competes — I wasn’t sure,” she said. “But he was so motivated. It’s great when you have a patient like that. It motivated me.” That was two years ago. Today, the 71-year-old is fully recovered from a torn Achilles tendon and is back among the elite master cyclists in the United States. His most recent triumph came last month in the Florida State Road Race Championships in Clermont, where he won the gold medal in the Men’s Masters 70-75 division.

Source: Jim Cheesman, The Daily Sun [11/19/12]

IL Podiatrist Receives Gregory Shaskan MD Memorial Award

The Chicago Marathon has awarded the Gregory Shaskan MD Memorial Award to Dr. Stephen Weinberg. Weinberg has served as the lead of Podiatric Services at the Chicago Marathon for 21 years. He has also served as the National Speaker on Podiatric Sports Medicine, Race Medical Director for the Chicago Triathlon for 25 years, and Chairman of the Chicago Area Runners Association’s Sports Medicine Committee during the 1980s.

Dr. Stephen Weinberg (R) receives award from Chicago Marathon medical director Dr. George Champus.

Regarding his experience with the Chicago Marathon, Weinberg said, “I have seen this event evolve into the word class event it is today, and I know that with the current leadership, race organization, and medical production team, it will continue to be one of the most popular, well-run races in the world.”

KSUCPM AAPPM Student Chapter Kicks Off 3rd Annual Food Drive

The Student Chapter of the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management (AAPPM) at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM) has kicked off their 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Last year, the club raised just under a quarter of a ton of food for the Cleveland Food Bank. “The need for food at food pantries is greater than ever, and we are confident that the students and faculty will surpass the amount of food we donated last year,” said Daniel White, AAPPM KSUCPM Student Chapter President.

(L-R) Amory Baker (Club Secretary) Daniel White, (Club President), Drs. Hal Ornstein and Jeffrey Frederick.

KSUCPM has a four-year comprehensive curriculum on practice management. Several of the classes throughout the year teach the importance of volunteerism and giving back to the community. All students in the classes are encouraged to get creative with ways they can collect food for the drive.

Query: Vasily Custom Orthotics

I have a patient who has had and likes the Vasily custom orthotics, but I have been unable to order the size: Women's 4 1/2 or 5. Any ideas as to where they may be obtained?

Chuck Ross, DPM, Springfield, MA

Query: Coding for TightRope HAV Repair

What code would be used for repair of a hallux abductovalgus deformity utilizing a tightrope fixation?

Scott Margolis, DPM, Houston, TX

Response: There is no specific procedure code for TightRope use. It is simply a form/technique of fixation and not separately reimbursable. If you performed a McBride-type bunionectomy and used TightRope to reduce the intermetatarsal angle, it is still a McBride-type bunionectomy procedure, CPT 28292.

You could try to add a "-22" modifier, but, there is no guarantee of increased payment, and your claim will be hung up in a manual processing purgatory.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Almeda, CA

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

RE: Pea-Sized Plantar Fibroma (David Kahan, DPM)
From: Michael Forman, DPM

I have seen a number of small fibromas along the medial strip of the plantar fascia. If they are asymptomatic, I leave them alone. I know some of my learned colleagues think that this might be below the standard of care, but it is almost impossible to biopsy the lesion and if you open it, you might as well excise the lesion.

My usual course is to leave the asymptomatic ones alone. If you feel that the lesion might be anywhere other than the fascia or if it is compressible, I get an MRI. Assuming everything is normal, I inject the lesion with a corticosteroid. I attempt this twice. It almost always goes away. If not, there is always surgical excision. You may be concerned about "fishing" around for a tiny lesion, but they are easy to find if you expose the medial slip of the fascia. They can be palpated.

As far as Verapamil, I have thought about it often but it is VERY expensive and it never made for more than a thought.

Michael Forman, DPM, Cleveland, OH, Im4man@aol.com

RE: EMR Auditing
From: James Breedlove, DPM

The support staff at my electronic health record company just brought up some disturbing information. It seems that now, CMS is performing audits on doctors that got their stimulus check for using electronic health records. According to the support staff, everyone knew that there was going to be certain security protocols for using an EMR program, but when CMS was called last year (by mulitple EMR vendors), CMS said that they either hadn't decided on what the rules were going to be or that they had not been published yet. Now, they are published and apparently some doctors have been audited. If they do not meet audit criteria, they may have to give the money back.

I have been reviewing the audit listing. This borders on insane. I don't have the launch codes for ICBMs. I agree that measures should be taken, and offices should be made aware, but the format laid out by CMS and the gross range is crazy. In one document, it suggests that we "hire" a security firm or appoint someone a "security officer" (this actually has to be in print). Many offices can't hire a security firm, etc. due to finances.

If there was ever a time for the APMA, AMA and others to unite against something, this is it. My security is better than most, but if I get "dinged" for this, I'm going back to paper and there isn't a damned thing they can do about it.

James Breedlove, DPM, San Luis Obispo, CA, bigmanzotz@aol.com

RE: Podiatry-Specific Coding (Paul Galluzzo, DPM)
From: David Gurvis, DPM, Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM

You might want to check out a coding manual by Martin Taubman, DPM.  You can reach him at (619) 298-1733.
 
David Gurvis, DPM, Avon, IN, deg1@comcast.net

No worries. If you are a member of the APMA, then you can have access to APMA's Coding Resource Center, which you are really going to need if ICD-10 is actually shoved down our throats!

Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL, Doc@FootSportsDoc.com

RE: Podiatry Specific Coding  (Paul Galluzzo, DPM)
From: Michael G. Warshaw, DPM

Yes, Dr. Bluth did retire, however that was over one year ago. The writing, updating, and production of the book has been taken over by myself. The book has been revised and the format is much more reader-friendly. The 2012 edition was my initial production. I look forward to the 2013 edition to be even better. The reviews from past and present users of the book have been overwhelmingly positive.

To order the book, call McVey Seminars at (800) 227-7888. The price of the book is $90.00.

Michael G. Warshaw, DPM, mgwarshaw@aol.com

RE: Shoe Recommendation (Ayne Furman, DPM)
From: Peter Harvey, DPM

Few people realize that Nordstrom started as a shoe store and made its name by selling mismatched shoe sizes for people with polio at no extra charge.They still specialize in hard-to-fit feet. Perhaps they can help.
 
Peter Harvey, DPM, Wichita Falls, TX, pmh@wffeet.com

RE: Minor Foot Problems Can Worsen if Unchecked: MD Podiatrist
From: James Christina, DPM

Unfortunately, it appears that journalistic integrity on this article was compromised. With regard to the comments about podiatry treating only “minor problems,” that comment was never made nor was it even discussed in the interview. Also, that comment was not attributed to me in the brief piece that ran in Money Magazine. Looking at the entire piece, the writer broke the article into “Five Things to Know about Foot Pain.”

I was quoted in the first item that dealt with ignoring foot problems leading to more costly solutions. When APMA was contacted by the fact checker, we had to correct several misquotes about podiatry. Even though the statement about podiatry only treating minor conditions was not attributed to me, we asked the writer to change that part to something like...

Editor's Note: Dr. Christina's extended-length letter can be read here.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

Multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to : practiceforsaleswfla@gmail.com.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED Q-CLEAR LASER

Still under warranty . New laser head just added. First Best Offer. Marketing and training included. Dr. Zuckerman will train you. e-mail with questions to mook863@comcast.net

PEDORTHIST WANTED – NEW JERSEY

Certified pedorthist interested in part owning-working in a therapeutic shoe store in busy podiatrist's office. Please email to advancedfoot1@aol.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 PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815.

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 - PORTLAND, OREGON

Busy office with good steady referral sources looking to expand. Areas of expertise wanted: wound care, surgery of all aspects, knowledge of running an office. Please come with good personality and hard work ethic. New main and satellite offices. Email: office.pfac@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION NEW JERSEY - PASSAIC COUNTY

Associate Position Available leading to Practice Purchase. 25 year old well established general, well rounded practice seeking residency trained, ABPS eligible/certified podiatrist. Must be able to perform general foot procedures/surgeries without assistance. Well equipped office with digital x-ray, ultrasound, Doppler, 3 treatment rooms. Hospital Privileges available. Must be logical, Ethical and hard working. Pay commensurate with performance. Call 201-986-1900.ToeBizCenter@Yahoo.Com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Welcome to paradise! Immediate opening in a busy, multi-location practice. Six figure income potential possible for the motivated individual in the first year. Surgical training a plus. Hospital privileges available, depending on training. Must be Florida licensed. Great benefit package. Send CV and cover letter to 1foot.ankle@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY

Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. I am looking for an entrepreneurial minded associate who wants to grow and then own part of an already successful practice. If you are the right candidate for this associate position, you will enjoy a competitive compensation package and you will be working with a doctor who is as committed to your success as he is to his own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NAPLES, 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. Candidate should have the skills and desire to perform rearfoot/ankle surgery. Florida has a great scope of practice law and we rotate for ER call. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner. In a cover letter tell me why you should be selected for the team. Email cover letter and CV with subject line "I am your new team member." to: Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NC PIEDMONT

Excellent opportunity for highly motivated, ethical, and personable PSR 24/36. This well established, 3-physician practice has excellent rapport with physician community, multiple office locations, and hospital privileges. Intent is an associate leading to partnership for the right individual. Competitive salary & benefits. Email CV to dpmassociatenc@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 12/24 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

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Exciting Opportunity! Associate position. Must be Board Qualified. Joining all Board Certified Doctors in foot surgery and reconstructive rear-foot and ankle surgery. Respond to: Podiatryoffice@doctor.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - MARYLAND (PART-TIME/FULL=TIME)

Are you motivated, personable and enjoy working with the elderly? We are offering part-time positions in Maryland. Our group, Podiatry Management Services, provides care in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, Senior Homes, Adult Daycare and other similar facilities. Please e-mail your CV to: drhprosen@verizon.net or fax to 410-486-2049 or call Dr. Herbert Rosen at 410-580-0255.

ASSOCIATE POSITION LEADING TO PARTNER - NJ HAMILTON SQ

Looking for a 2/3 year surgically trained podiatrist for a position in my well balanced practice. A full schedule of patients is waiting. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care and clinic, general podiatry and sportsmedicine. Starting salary is $90,000 plus bonus +health+401K+paid vacation and seminars+all dues. Starting immediately send resume to Drj4foot2012@aol.com.

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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 14,000 DPMs. Write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 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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