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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 22,110 Subscribers Daily
November 21, 2024 #7,899  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management® https://podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2024- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
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Have you been sued for malpractice? |
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| NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR PM FUTURE STARS | |
Nominations Open for 2025 PM Future Stars
In 2025, Podiatry Management Magazine will be publishing our continuing series highlighting young practitioners. We are asking our readers to nominate potential candidates who are making a difference. We invite you to send us the name of a young practitioner (graduated 2015 or later) and why s/he should be recognized. Self-nominations will be accepted. Simply write to bblock@podiatrym.com
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Don't Overlook Using Lotions and Creams for Feet: TX Podiatrist
We obsess over the perfect serums for our faces and slather our bodies in luxurious lotions, but when it comes to the best foot cream…where to start? They’re often an afterthought—until you suddenly notice those cracked heels and think, damn. They can be a game-changer alongside a foot scrub.
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Dr. Anne Sharkey |
“The skin on the soles of our feet is up to five times thicker than other body parts. That thickness provides essential protection and cushioning, allowing feet to handle pressure and friction daily,” says Anne M. Sharkey, DPM, a podiatrist at North Austin Foot and Ankle Institute in Cedar Park, TX. But even though our feet our built tougher, “the skin on our feet shouldn’t be overlooked,” she says.
Source: Christa Joanna Lee, Allure [10/24/24]
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| PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
MI Podiatrist Emphasizes Importance of Good Footwear
Footprints of Michigan provides shoes to thousands of children. The non-profit has been operating for more than 10 years and knows proper footwear makes a world of difference. For five years, Footprints of Michigan has partnered with Foremost Podiatry to educate people on the importance of good footwear. James Toney, DPM works with all ages and says they have the same goal in mind. “It’s important to have proper fitting shoes to prevent certain types of sports-related injuries, or pressure sores and whatnot,” said Dr. Toney.
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Dr. James Toney |
“So, in the homeless Community, there’s a high number of patients that are diabetic. Diabetic patients with an ill-fitting shoe, shoes that are too tight or too small can cause rub sores, or if they’re going with no shoes or shoes with holes in it, that can also cause sores on the feet. So, getting the proper fitting shoe, prevents those kinds of sores and injuries,” says Dr. Toney.
Source: DeAnna Giles, MSN [11/14/24]
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRY IN THE NEWS | |
Indian Institute Sees Rise in Diabetic Foot Amputations
Diabetic foot conditions among patients visiting the State-run Karnataka Institute of Endocrinology and Research (KIER) are on the rise, especially in males aged between 35 and 55. Overall, from 2022 till October 2024, 17,804 patients have undergone minor and major procedures at the institute. Doctors said the number of amputations are also on the rise. From 55 minor (one to three toes) amputations and 12 major (below or above knee) amputations in 2023, the number shot up to 65 major and 17 minor amputations this year so far.
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Dr. Belehalli Pavan |
Associate Professor Dr. Belehalli Pavan, who heads the Department of Podiatry at the institute, told The Hindu that the average amputation rate at the institute ranged between 8% and 10%. “Many patients, who get surgeries done outside after the diagnosis and evaluation, are not in our records,” he said.
Source: Afshan Yasmeen, The Hindu [11/19/24]
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| FROM PM's CURRENT ISSUE | |
Several times a week, PM News posts an entire article from a recent issue of our partner, Podiatry Management Magazine. Please note that the views expressed in Podiatry Management Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of PM News or Barry Block.
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Today's featured article |
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
How to Talk with Patients About Billing
You know how much you have invested in your career and how much money it takes to run a medical practice, but your patients may not. If you let patients know from the beginning that you are running a business and expect to be paid, you’ll have far fewer collections problems in the long run. Fortunately, having this conversation is not as difficult as you may think.
2. Educate clinical staff
It would be nice to leave billing to the billing department and patient care to the clinical staff. But that’s not always possible. Billing staff don’t know what’s going to happen before or during the visit. For example, a clinician may perform a procedure that requires an additional copay. “[Before] these things happen, someone from billing needs to come back and explain the extra charge to the patient,” says Karen Lake, healthcare consultant at the firm Pearce, Bevill, Leesburg, Moore.
Source: Avery Hurt, Physician's Practice [7/9/24]
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| WRITING TIPS FROM THE AMERICAN PODIATRIC MEDICAL WRITERS ASSOCIATION | |
Proper Use of Professional Titles
Incorrect: Dr. John Doe D.P.M.
Correct: John Doe, DPM
In the incorrect version:
1) It is redundant to use both Dr. and DPM.
2) A comma is missing separating the name and degree.
3) Modern style is not to use periods between degree abbreviations.
The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association (APMWA) is a related organization of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). For membership info, write to bblock@podiatrym.com.
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| QUERIES (CODING & BILLING) | |
Query: Billing for Flatfoot
I recently received a denial from a patient with Medicare for CPT code of 99202 with the following ICD codes M21.41, M21.42, M79.671, and M79.672. It was listed as a denial due to flatfoot as exclusion with Medicare. I understand the Medicare exclusion of flatfoot, but my question is how would you bill/what ICD codes for a patient who needs flatfoot surgery and only has Medicare?
My question extends to the visits leading up to the actual surgery as well. The denial is for what I would normally use for those visits leading up to surgery.
Kyle Gleeson, DPM, Miami Beach, FL
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
From: Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH
Unfortunately, the medical billing rip-off is rampant in medicine and podiatry. I do forensic reviews and am privy to DPMs’ billing and I can tell you that 90% of the bills I review are toxic.
Recently a plantar fasciitis patient came to see me who had been treated by a local podiatrist. The patient was not getting any better and explained his treatment. He thought he would save money and went to an insurance podiatrist instead of me, a direct pay podiatrist first. Here is what happened. He was charged for a new office visit and x- rays were billed to his insurance. He was then told he needed to start shockwave therapy that was not insurance covered, and he was given stretch exercises. There was NO mention of an oral non-steroidal, orthotics, or a steroid injection. The shockwave therapy did not work; meanwhile he was in pain. He then was told that he should have orthotics and if that did not work, the DPM would try a steroid injection. He was told if that did not work, he would need surgery
Unfortunately, this treatment was about making money first and the patient last. It is truly unbelievable that there are docs out there ripping off not only the system, but their patients, and making their patients suffer at the expense of making an almighty dollar. Truly listening to this patient made me disgusted about the ethics of some of the younger doctors out there in practice.
Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH, Newport Beach, CA
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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Who says you can't take your doll house with you (Photo: Charlotte Visser) |
Source: Linda Van Deventer-Van Reenen via Virtual Shoe Museum
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MEETINGS & WEBINARS
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Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE AND FACULTY POSITIONS, AND FELLOWSHIPS | |
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 20,000 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 21,900 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW JERSEY
Well established podiatric, surgical and medical practice located at the Jersey shore. Over 30 years in practice with over 30,000 charts. Two fully equipped office locations, including x-ray highly trained office staff with in-house billing, fully electronic medical and billing system, grossing approximately $500,000. Practice for sale. Contact at drkachmar@icloud.com
MOBILE PODIATRISTS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY! – SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Home Foot Care, Inc. Mobile Podiatry Co. is hiring FULL OR PART TIME Podiatrists to treat home bound patients throughout SoCal. Choose your own days/hours, excellent GUARANTEED DAILY RATE, benefits, cloud based EHR, equipment/supplies, support staff, we teach billing/coding. Great opportunity! Email CV to: homefootcare@hotmail.com Check out www.footdocs2u.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – TEXAS
Full-time position available for two-office practice. Practice sees 50% general podiatry conditions and 50% wound care. Our practice is looking for a self-motivated go-getter podiatrist who is friendly with great bedside manners as well as excellent podiatric skills. Candidate must be willing to accept consults at the hospital. Email: totalfootandanklecare@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – DAYTON, OHIO
Well established, fully equipped single office private practice looking for part/full time associate. Candidate should be highly motivated with strong surgical and clinical skills. Competitive salary, bonus structure, paid malpractice and benefit package. Potential for buy-in available if interested. Please email CV to schapman1@woh.rr.com
MOBILE PODIATRIST - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Leading mobile podiatry practice in California. Positions available in Los Angeles County and San Diego County both full/part time. The most competitive compensation, bonus opportunities. Great for new graduates, those with families or anyone wanting to increase their revenue. Podiatrists love working with us! Unique opportunity with a flexible environment and full support of a well-established healthcare team. Access to full office staff and AI tech. Email info@anywherefootandanklecare.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – AL, GA, IL, KS, LA, MO, MS & TN
Aria Care Partners is seeking Mobile Podiatrists to work 1-2 days/week in skilled nursing facilities. You will have autonomy and focus on clinical care while we take care of all scheduling and billing. Guaranteed daily base rate plus competitive compensation. Electronic charting and all equipment provided. Make a true difference in an under-served population. New graduates or experienced practitioners are welcome! Email CV to: kcampbell@aria.care.
ASSOCIATE POSITION OPEN IN DALLAS/FORT WORTH AREA
Join our dynamic multi-specialty group, spanning 6 locations in DFW, equipped with cutting-edge technology, physical therapy and an established patient base. Our practice also includes a surgery center. We offer a competitive starting salary with bonus and benefits. Send your CV to Cnunez1940@gmail.com.
TEXAS THE WOODLANDS - WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY!
Successful, multi-location, expanding, innovative, well respected, patient centered, podiatric practice seeking well-rounded physician. Must be personable, skilled, ethical, proactive, versatile, and well-trained. Live, work, raise your family in the Woodlands, TX …voted the “Best City To Live In America”. Texas does not have personal income tax, the economy is always strong, and everyone is moving here. We are thriving and building the future. We have our own surgery center, physical therapy imaging center, and in-house billing. We offer competitive base salary with bonus and benefits. Become one of the BEST! Immediate Opening. Send Resume to: alexandra@nevillefeet.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA
Growing podiatry practice is seeking a high energy associate interested in providing care to multi senior living facilities as well as working into a partnership to own the practice in 2 to 4 years. The office is located in Annandale, Virginia. Great opportunity to add a surgical aspect to the practice as surgery is currently referred out. Compensation is personal productivity commission based. There is a 1,000 dollar sign on bonus. Please respond to: DrBreiner@AOL.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND
Immediate associate position to join our team. An expanding, dynamic podiatry practice with lots of room to grow. Limb salvage, deformity, trauma & clinic. Multiple hospitals to take call, hospital call required. Maryland license preferred, BQ preferred, not required. Full benefit package available. Please email CV to footanklerecon@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - WASHINGTON STATE
We are a busy, 4 office practice in Western Washington with free standing surgery center, seeking a board qualified/certified podiatrist to begin as soon as possible. Please send CV to bbrickman@pacpodgroup.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LAS VEGAS, NV
Busy and well-established practice located in a medical district and two blocks from the hospital. Must have excellent bedside manner. Send cover letter and CV to: SIERRA@LASVEGASACFAC.COM
FULL TIME PODIATRIST - NEW JERSEY
Established Podiatry practice in New Jersey with multiple locations and Doctors. We are currently looking for a full-time motivated and caring Doctor to join our busy practice. Benefits include: competitive six-figure compensation ranging from $155,000-$250,000, health insurance (including vision & dental), paid vacation time off, paid malpractice insurance and 401(k) plan. Great prospects for experienced Doctors as well as new Associates. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your podiatric medical experience in an office-based practice! If interested, please submit your CV to DrSamofal@PodiatryCenterNJ.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY
Well-established, busy podiatric group seeking surgically trained podiatrist. Multiple locations, full patient schedules, lower extremity MRI, state-of-the-art technology, competitive compensation. Lexington is located within a few hours' travel to approximately two-thirds of the U.S. population and provides healthcare needs for Southern, Central and Eastern Kentucky. Submit CV and 3 references to dr.allen@LFAAC.com
POSITION AVAILABLE – MARYLAND
Great opportunity to join a well-rounded, growing, podiatry practice in Maryland. We hire employees with high integrity, a belief in teamwork, and a passion for our brand. We strive for accuracy and consistency. We desire a physician who is centered on patient commitment. Cleanliness is a must. If you are an energetic, enthusiastic, and tenacious, podiatrist, email us your contact information and resume. Text 410 459-4909 or Info@HLESfootcare.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA
Small multi location practice seeks podiatrist, non-surgical/surgical. Flexible schedule with percentage based salary. Licensed in Florida with immediate start date. Please send resumes to nppodiatry@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - NEW MEXICO AREA
Associate position as part of a rapidly growing practice providing care in the New Mexico area. Position includes hospital rounding, clinic, and SNF providing wound care and limb salvage. Comes with a $180K base + bonus with full benefits including CME allowance, Health, Dental, Vision, 401K plan. Email resume to kim@innovationmedgroup.com
PER DIEM POSITION – CENTRAL NY
Bassett Healthcare Network, a progressive, academic health system in central New York, major teaching affiliate of Columbia University, is seeking a per diem podiatric surgeon to join our staff. Bassett Healthcare Network is an integrated healthcare system that provides care and service to people living in an eight-county region covering 5,600 square miles in Central New York. Rotational On-Call expectations will be required • 180 Bed Primary Hospital with Level III Trauma Center • Instant Referral Base provided by over 300 Primary Care Clinicians • Salary Range: $130/Hour For confidential consideration, please contact: Ashley Camarata, Medical Staff Recruiter 607-547-6982 or Ashley.camarata@bassett.org
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA
US Foot and Ankle Specialists (USFAS), the largest podiatric group in the United States is hiring! USFAS is looking for Associate Doctors to join our team in Virginia. Our group of physicians use state of the art, podiatry-specific technology, and software to stay on top of today’s changing medical trends and provide our patients with the highest quality care. USFAS is an excellent opportunity for those who are seeking long-term employment. Please send a cover letter and resume to recruiting@us-fas.com. Candidates must be either licensed or in the process of becoming licensed.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - RICHMOND, VA
US Foot and Ankle Specialists (USFAS), the largest podiatric group in the United States is hiring! USFAS is looking for Associate Doctors to join our team in Virginia. Our group of physicians use state of the art, podiatry-specific technology, and software to stay on top of today’s changing medical trends and provide our patients with the highest quality care. USFAS is an excellent opportunity for those who are seeking long-term employment. Please send a cover letter and resume to recruiting@us-fas.com. Candidates must be either licensed or in the process of becoming licensed
BALANCE HEALTH SURGICAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
Balance Health is dedicated to supporting our future and has developed multiple one-year surgical fellowships with some of the brightest in our field. Fellowship opportunities exist in Chicago (Weil fellowship) and in California in the San Francisco area, Sacramento, Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego for the 25/26 year. We offer a competitive fellowship salary and benefits while offering in depth surgical training. Balance Health, the largest podiatry majority owned and operated practice in the nation with nearly 250 doctors, over 100 offices, a dermatopathology lab with an on-staff dermatopathologist and operates in nine States. Interested candidates can email Devon Glazer, DPM at fellowships@balancehealth.com or learn more at https://balancehealth.com/surgical-fellowship-program/
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| CLASSIFIED ADS - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE | |
PM NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 22,000 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 22,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
OFFICE FOR RENT - PARAMUS NEW JERSEY
Beautiful Office for rent configured for podiatry. All other offices in the building are medical. Four treatment rooms, waiting room, reception, storage room, private office, x-ray room, lab, kitchen, two private bathrooms with public bathroom in hallway. Beautiful glass building, exceptional amount of parking right off 17 North next to Paramus Park and close to VALLEY HOSPITAL. Reserved doctor’s parking space under building. 2300 ft². If interested, send text to. 201.452.2774.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - ANNAPOLIS, MD
26 year old practice grossing over 7 figures, newly renovated, turn-key protocol-based practice ½ mile from hospital. 8 treatment rooms with space for more, ultra sound, x-ray and on-site ASC with 1st floor parking. Owner doc staying to help transition amazing team. Contact annapolispodiatry@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - BAYONNE, NEW JERSEY
Bayonne’s own Dr. Schail C. Frank, a trusted podiatrist serving the community for 48 years, is selling his beloved practice. All essential equipment included for a seamless transition. Don’t miss this opportunity to continue his legacy. Contact Dr. Frank at 201-858-4600 or broadwaypodiatry@yahoo.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - BERGEN COUNTY, NJ
Established practice with two locations for sale. ully equipped and staffed practice locations. Opportunity to purchase, generate immediate cash flow and grow the business. Full range of service offering with surgery center and hospitals conveniently located. Contact: MCrosby518@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - NY CITY - MANHATTAN PRIME LOCATION
Established practice for sale. Owner desires to sell and transition. Opportunity to take over established patient base and ground level location. Well-pointed office with consistent retentive patient flow. Contact: MCrosby518@gmail.com
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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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