


|
|
|
|
PMNews
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 16,724 Podiatrists Daily
November 26, 2014 #5,227 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2014- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the written permission of Barry Block
|
|
PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
|
Do you plan on participating in Meaningful Use in 2015? |
 |
|
|
PODIATRIC RESIDENTS IN THE NEWS |
Washington, DC Residents Travel to the Middle East for Diabetic Foot Conference
|
(L-R) Drs. David Engorn, Vinay Matai, and Virit Butani |
Three MedStar Washington Hospital Center podiatric surgical residents recently returned to the U.S. from their invited oral abstract presentations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The residents were presenting at the 5th International Diabetic Foot Conference on cutting edge techniques in limb salvage while learning about the emerging epidemic of diabetes in the Middle East. The conference was attended by specialists from around the world with the focus on creating a multidisciplinary team approach to limb salvage.
|
|
|
INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
High Heels Actually Benefit Some Foot Conditions: NZ Podiatrist
For Canterbury foot surgeon Dr. Frederick George, bunions are the most common problem he sees. And he's adamant – "it's an inherited trait; it has nothing to do with shoes." Shoes might aggravate the problem, but people can be genetically predisposed to having a foot problem such as bunions, hammertoes, or spurs, whether they wear high heels or not. Very few people have perfect feet, so over a period of time, they might develop different sorts of bone deformities from the way they walk and where they lean their weight, he explains.
|
Dr. Frederick George |
He does see shoe-related problems – typically corns and calluses caused by friction and rubbing against the fourth and fifth toes – but these are normally caused by tight, pointy shoes, not necessarily heels, he says. "High heels are actually good for arch and heel pain, shifting weight from the heel to the front of the foot. And heel pain is very common, especially if people are heavier," George says. "Wearing a higher-heeled shoe is often as good as wearing an orthotic. I tell patients 'if you can wear a heeled shoe comfortably and it doesn't bother your toes, then it can be… actually quite beneficial.'"
Source: Aileen Nakhle, The Southland Times [11/25/14]
|
|
|
PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY |
New Jersey Monthly Names 20 NJ Podiatrists as "Top Doctors"
New Jersey Monthly provides the only statewide list of top doctors based entirely on an independent survey of New Jersey’s licensed doctors. To compile the list, New Jersey Monthly commissioned an independent survey by Leflein Associates, a research firm in Ringwood. Leflein Associates mailed a questionnaire to every doctor licensed in New Jersey for at least five years. Each of the doctors was asked to vote for physicians he or she would choose to treat him or herself or a family member.
The following podiatrists were chosen as NJ's Top Doctors: Richard Adler, Kyle Alessi, Robert Barbuto, Patricia Berran, Mark Biebel, Wayne Caputo, Joseph Cione, John Cozzarelli, Mark DeCotiis, George Fahoury, Jr, Stephen Greenfogel, Lawrence Levine, Douglas McKay, David Millili, Morris Morin, Barry Mullen, Fawaz Neshseiweit, Ritchard. Rosen, Jacqueline Sutera, and Neil Yudkoff.
Source: New Jersey Monthly [November 2014]
|
|
IN THE COURTS |
$6.75 Million Judgment Against Botox Manufacturer
Mild redness, irritation, and fever were the side-effects that Lori and Kevin Drake were warned about when their son, Joshua, received therapeutic Botox treatments. After receiving injections of the drug to treat muscle spasms in his legs, the 7-year-old Essex County boy developed epilepsy and now requires daily medication and constant observation to monitor him for seizures. Joshua’s parents sued the drug manufacturer, California-based Allergan, and were awarded a $6.75 million verdict in U.S. District Court in Burlington on Thursday.
A persistent muscle spasm that affected Joshua’s balance led his parents to consult a podiatrist who recommended the Botox treatment. Being told of the potential benefits and seemingly mild side-effects of the treatment, the Drakes placed their trust in medical professionals who they believed had been informed on the correct use of the drug. Joshua's injections were administered by a doctor at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, though Drake noted that the family did not seek litigation against the doctor or the hospital on the grounds that they had been misinformed by Allergan on details about the Botox treatment.
Source: Ben Rowe, Press Republican [11/23/14]
|
|
PHARMACEUTICAL NEWS |
FDA Approves Extended-release Hydrocodone with Abuse-Deterrent Properties
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Hysingla ER (hydrocodone bitartrate), an extended-release (ER) opioid analgesic to treat pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. Hysingla ER has approved labeling describing the product’s abuse-deterrent properties consistent with the FDA’s 2013 draft guidance for industry.
Hysingla ER has properties that are expected to reduce, but not totally prevent, abuse of the drug when chewed and then taken orally, or crushed and snorted or injected. The tablet is difficult to crush, break or dissolve. It also forms a viscous hydrogel (thick gel) and cannot be easily prepared for injection. The FDA has determined that the physical and chemical properties of Hysingla ER are expected to make abuse by these routes difficult.
Source: FDA [11/20/14]
|
|
CODINGLINE CORNER |
Query: CPT 64450 Denial - Not Medically Necessary
Over the last few months, Medicare has denied every CPT 64450 claim we have submitted using diagnosis code, ICD-9 355.8 (mononeuritis of lower limb, unspecified). According to the LCD for CPT 64450, ICD-9 355.8 is an acceptable diagnosis code. I am aware of the limit of three billings of CPT 64450 in a six-month time frame, but none of these denials have exceeded this limit. Am I missing something? Is there a new CPT code to be used with ICD-9 355.8 just as CPT 64455 is dedicated to ICD-9 355.6 (Morton's neuroma)?
Gary A. Lieber, DPM, Delray Beach, FL
Response: The key here is that the LCD appears clear. This happens all over the country, and if your carrier has a written policy on the use of CPT 64450 and you are following it, the claim should be paid. Appeal with copies of the notes and the LCD, and see what they say. The same problem is happening now in New England with NGS. Use the LCD as your leverage and make sure your notes are complete as to the medical necessity, of course, without tinkering with already made notes.
Mike King, DPM, Fall River, MA
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
|
|
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (DME) |
From: Richard Stess, DPM
Here is a list of a few custom Gauntlet AFOs that currently supply the podiatric community:
Arizona AFO, Buffalo Brace, Cyberkinetics, Langer Biomechanics, Pine Tree Orthopedic Lab, Pro Lab, Richie Gauntlet, Rybo, and Tru life
Richard Stess, DPM, President and Co-Founder, STS Company, Mill Valley, CA
|
|
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (EMR) |
From: Michael Brody, DPM
In answer to this question, I could go on for quite a long time, but I will keep it brief and only touch on a few points.
With Meaningful Use our software can alert us as to potential medication interactions prior to our completing prescriptions (Stage 1 and 2).
With Meaningful Use, we have the ability to track...
Editor's note: Dr. Brody's extended-length letter can be read here.
|
|
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP |
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
|
Bound for Gory? |
Source: Dr. Michael J Felicetta
|
MEETING NOTICES

|
|
|
CLASSIFIED ADS |
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET
PRACTICE FOR SALE – MARYLAND
Well established, turn-key busy podiatry practice with accredited hospital-grade ASC is available for sale. Situated in a full service medical building located in a very desirable and convenient area of Northwest Baltimore County. Strong referral base and modern facility with EMR, digital x-rays, hi-def ultrasound and multi-use laser equipped. A great opportunity for a group to expand services into this area or for a very motivated and well trained individual. For more information contact Mr. Jesse Delanoy, attorney representative c/o Offit/Kurman Law Group: jDelanoy@offitkurman.com or at his office 301-575-0301.
PRACTICE FOR SALE- ARIZONA
Central Arizona - between Phoenix and Tucson. Well established and very busy 35 year old solo-practice. High volume surgery and general practice with good cross-section of patients from pediatric to geriatric. Hospital, surgicenter and in-office surgery. Located in professional center. Contact E-mail: pmmpod@gmail.com
LOCUM TENENS WANTED – NEW YORK
Seeking recent podiatry graduate who can speak English and Spanish to run 2 offices in Queens January, February, and possibly March due to medical absence. Position can lead to associate/ partnership. Please email: Hsd18@aol.com if interested.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND
Multiple office practice located on the Eastern Shore of MD near beaches. Seeking motivated, energetic individual to join our three existing physicians. We are an expanding practice with focus on all aspects of podiatric care. Offices equipped with ultrasound, digital imaging, 3-D scanners, onsite ambulatory surgery center and many other state of the art amenities. Excellent salary with bonus and benefits package. Send CV to dpmkthomas@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina's largest provider of foot care is a multi-doctor, multi-location practice currently seeking a highly skilled, personable, and hardworking physician to join our TEAM. South Carolina License is necessary. Salary range $120k-$140k (base + bonus) and benefits. Please send Letter of Interest and CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com
IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR A DPM - DC METRO AREA
Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, LLC is in need of a replacement practitioner in our Downtown Silver Spring and DC offices. Come join our team of top docs. If you are an established practitioner (available now), and you are enthusiastic, personable, motivated and well-trained, we would be delighted to discuss an associate position in our 33-doctor group with 21 locations with you. Significant patient flow, EMR, computerized scheduling, certified ambulatory surgical centers, hospital and physician referral base. Please send cover letter and resume to: newdpm@footandankle-usa.com.
BUSY PRACTICE SEEKING FULL TIME / PART-TIME ASSOCIATE - WASHINGTON, DC
Active DC License required now. All facets of podiatry including office, ER, hospital surgery, and nursing homes. We are in three offices in the DC area. We treat you right. Applicants should be PSR-24/36. Competitive salary. You will be seeing 20 patients a day from the start. Opportunity to get cases for boards. Hospital based practice.. Come grow with us. Send CV and references to DCMDfootdoc@aol.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALIFORNIA
We are a group practice based in Irvine (Orange County), with a second office in the high desert city of Victorville. Currently, there are four doctors in the group and we are ready to bring on a fifth doctor. Both offices are attached to surgicenters. We have a high patient volume and very little C & C. Our compensation is competitive and negotiable. If you are interested in this opportunity, please feel free to reply via email or call me at your convenience. Michael Goddard 949-289-0685 Email: mgoddard@cafai.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK
Well-rounded, hospital based podiatry practice. Large number of new patients monthly, digital x-rays, and EMR. Team podiatrist for Division 1 college sports program. Currently have 3 DPMs and 3 offices. Senior partner is Chair of Pod Dept.; Partner & Associate are involved in wound center. Offices located 75 miles north of New York City, in the beautiful Hudson Valley. More affordable cost of living; great place to live. Looking for a personable individual with strong ethics and high motivation. Seeking an associate leading to potential partnership. Must have PM & S-36 training. Please call (845) 471-2243 or email eriksims@hotmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHWEST INDIANA/CHICAGOLAND AREA
Busy established practice looking for a full time Associate with long term goal of partnership. Two to Three PSR trained. Modern office with EHR/Digital X-ray. Competitive salary, bonus and benefits. Please send cover letter, and CV to Pjames@cffaac.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA
Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA FLORIDA
Beaches, great weather, great restaurants, culture, laid back lifestyle – all year! "old-style" work ethic, unique thriving practice. Associate to "Buy-In" Opportunity. Customer service, sense of humor detailed, driven, laid back personality. Market yourself and the practice, Good surgical skills, great practice management ability. Email, "I'm the ONE!", CV, docmkatz@gmail.com
PODIATRIC PHYSICIAN WANTED - CHICAGO/SUBURBS
If you are working in private practice and have the time to see more patients; we can significantly increase your income. Chicago Podiatric Surgeons is looking for a minimum of two days per week commitment to work at one of our offices located in Chicago, Tinley Park or Lombard. Enjoy a full schedule and high compensation immediately. We would consider part or full time employment, independent contracting, partnership or merge. If interested or want more information contact, Thomas Carr, DPM at dr.tcarr@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION, IMMEDIATE – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/SF EAST BAY
We are seeking podiatrists to join our multi-office practice, immediate opening. Must have great people skills, bedside manner, and positive demeanor. California license required. No nursing home visits. Prefer private practice experience, credentialed with insurance. Full and Part Time positions. Send CV and cover letter to: ebpod2008@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MULTI-SPECIALTY GROUP IN LOS ANGELES
Looking for PMSR/RRA graduate to join the group and the residency training faculty. Must be well trained in limb preservation, trauma, and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Starting guaranteed base salary of 120,000/yr with incentives & benefits. Send CV with 3 references topodiatricri@yahoo.com attention Stan Mathis, DPM
ASSOCIATE POSITION - AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY- KANSAS CITY
Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. We are 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 doctors who are as committed to your success as we are to our own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 16,000 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 16,000 DPMs. For details, click here or write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.
|
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.
| Guidelines |
- To Post a message, send it to: bblock@podiatrym.com
- Notes should be original and may not be submitted to
other publications or listservs without our express written
permission.
- Notes must be in the following form:
RE: (Topic)
From: (your name, DPM)
Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use
Spellchecker
Your name, DPM City/State
- Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.
|
|
Browse PMNews Issues
Previous Issue | Next Issue
|
|
|
|
|