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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 16,637 Podiatrists Daily
November 05, 2014 #5,209  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
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
Quick Poll
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| PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE | |
Maximalist Shoes are Now "In" For Marathoners: CA Podiatrist
Just a few years ago, runners were shedding shoes with padding, convinced that so called “minimalist” models would allow their feet to move more naturally and so would prevent all-too-common running injuries. Some people dumped the shoes altogether and ran barefoot on pavement. Now, as thousands of Sacramento area runners gear up for the California International Marathon (CIM) in early December, the padding is back. And it’s thicker than ever. With stack heights as tall as 35 millimeters, Hokas, a line of “maximalist” road and trail shoes have more than twice the midsole material of a standard model. They contain more than twice as much ethylene-vinyl acetate, a polymer with stress and impact-resistant qualities as a standard pair of running shoes.
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Dr. Kevin Kirby |
The result is a responsive and stable shoe that keeps runners going for longer with less pain, said Dr. Kevin Kirby, Sacramento podiatrist with a specialty in biomechanics. Kirby, a former UC Davis runner and 2 1/2 hour CIM finisher, said the Hokas are “fairly radical” in their ability to secure the foot with extra cushion and rocker technology. Previously, softer shoes allowed the foot to pronate and supinate, or roll inward and outward from the subtalar joint below the ankle, increasing risk of injury. Shoes with a hard, flat midsole kept the foot in place, but did little to countershock the impact of hitting the ground, he said.
Source: Sammy Caiola, Sacramento Bee [11/1/14]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 1 | |
Onychomycosis is a Cosmetic Issue, Except in Diabetics: VA Podiatrist
Hammertoes, mallet toes, bunions, corns, calluses, fallen arches, flat feet, neuromas, plantar fasciitis — a lot can go wrong with feet. Dr. Simon J. Mest, a podiatrist and assistant professor in the VCU Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, talked about common foot problems during a free seminar held recently at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Problems with feet are more common as people get older and as they get heavier, Mest said. After his presentation, he answered questions from the audience. Here is one:
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Dr. Simon Mest |
QUESTION: Is there a problem with not doing anything for nail fungus? ANSWER: Not for the average individual, but if you are a diabetic, it is a problem only because if the nail gets thick, you don’t have feelings in your toes and you’ll develop a sore under the nail plates. For the average individual, it’s just an ugly toe.
Source: Tammie Smith, Richmond Times [11/2/14]
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 2 | |
MA Podiatrist Opens New Practice
Ayleen Gregorian, DPM, FACFAOM, a podiatrist with Emerson Hospital, has opened a practice in Acton, allowing her to treat pediatric and adult patients. Gregorian also has practices in Lexington at Bedford-Lexington Internal Medicine and at Emerson Medical at Sudbury.
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Dr. Ayleen Gregorian |
Gregorian received her medical degree from Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine and completed her residency at MetroWest Medical Center. She is board-certified in orthopedics and podiatric medicine.
Source: Acton Beacon [11/2/14]
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| APMA IN THE NEWS | |
Including Podiatric Care for Diabetics Reduces Healthcare Costs: APMA President
A major cost associated with diabetic medical care is lower-limb amputation. Diabetes can cause patients to lose sensation in their extremities, so an individual may not immediately notice injuries to their feet. "For those who have diabetes or are at risk for the disease, regular checkups by a podiatrist are one of the easiest ways to prevent most foot complications," said American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) President Frank Spinosa, DPM. "Including a podiatrist in your care can reduce amputation rates by as much as 85 percent."
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Dr. Frank Spinosa |
A study by APMA found that among patients with commercial insurance, each $1 invested in care by a podiatrist results in $27 to $51 of savings for the healthcare system. Among Medicare eligible patients, each $1 invested in care by a podiatrist results in $9 to $13 of savings. "With proactive foot care, diabetes patients can reduce the risk of infection and amputation, improve function and quality of life, and reduce healthcare costs," he adds.
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| INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS AND PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINE | |
UK Podiatrist Suspended for Inappropriate and Bullying Behavior
Podiatrist Fiona McWilliam has been suspended from the HCPC Register for inappropriate behavior towards patients and conduct amounting to bullying and harassment during her employment with NHS Highland. A panel of the HCPC Conduct and Competence Committee heard that Fiona McWilliam received a first written warning at a disciplinary hearing in November 2011 following complaints of her conduct towards four patients. The Panel further heard that allegations of bullying and harassment towards a colleague led to a second disciplinary hearing in December 2012. At the conclusion of this hearing, Fiona McWilliam received a final written warning resulting in her dismissal. The Panel decided the most appropriate action was to suspend Fiona McWilliam from the Register for a period of 12 months.
Source: Health & Care Professions Council [10/31/14]
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| MEDICARE NEWS | |
Medicare Payments Slated to Decrease by 21% in April
Under final rules issued by the CMS late Friday, physicians could see all Medicare payments cut by roughly 21% in April if the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula cuts are allowed to take effect. Under the rule, the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula — a payment policy that has forced Congress to repeatedly intercede to avoid major cuts to physician payment—would slash reimbursement to doctors by 21.1% as of April 1.
The rule also affects reporting of manufacturers' payments to physicians under the Sunshine Act. Friday's rule finalized the elimination of the exemption for reporting indirect manufacturers' payments to physicians for continuing medical education participation. According to the CMS, applicable manufacturers and group purchasing organizations now will be required to report compensation provided to physician speakers at continuing education events, unless the payment or other transfer of value is specifically excluded.
Source: Melanie Evans, Modern Healthcare [10/31/14]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Ulcer & Ostectomy Coding
What code would I use for excision of ulcer with ostectomy (1st metatarsal head)?
Diane M. Phalen, DPM, San Marcos, TX
Response: It depends on the specific circumstances. A partial exostectomy would be coded as CPT 28288, CPT 28122, CPT 28104, or, if the entire metatarsal head was excised, CPT 28111. Where was the ulcer? If it was overlying the incision area (where, for example, a simple ellipse would remove all the non-viable tissue), then typically that procedure would be a component of the more comprehensive bone resection.
Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
From: Robert Kornfeld, DPM
Once again, I am amazed at the lack of accurate information being espoused by those with "credentials." For one thing, Dr. Caplan is NOT a physician and is not involved in the clinical treatment arena. Secondly, the blanket statement that "supplements don't do anything" is about as ignorant a statement as I have ever heard. I challenge his opposition simply by stating that there is no conclusive evidence that any of the chemotherapeutic agents being used for cancer have any effect on curing cancer. The evidence that has become the standard of care in current medicine is nothing more than symptom control without any emphasis on cause.
There is no argument here that supplements are not medicines and have no "medicinal" effect on symptoms. However, when combined with the appropriate epigenetic controls, supplements have proven themselves to...
Editor's note: Dr. Kornfeld's extended-length letter can be read here.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2A | |
From: Steven J. Kaniadakis, DPM
Perhaps for you, it's a sad economic reality. If you don't sign up, then someone else will sign up. Recall HMOs? This generation of technology disruption makes the idea of another fellow DPM moving into an office across from yours look like the happy and glory days of podiatry. What happens when other technology moves in on the methods which you currently believe are below the dignity of the profession (For example, when your patients can webcam your physician using another form of popular and emerging technology)?
Physician assistants are taking the appointments using ZocDoc and screening the appointments. ZocDoc is just a scheduling method, which is funded by Facebook investors. Keeping up on the side of technology means more than just completing a 3 year residency. I've tried to teach DPMs how to adapt to change, in part, using technology based on the gains and pitfalls of my practice experiences. If you don't listen to what's out there, then someone else will listen. What's even more sad? These companies are started by people who have no nexus to DPMs (like ex-truck drivers).
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 1B | |
From: Name Withheld
Be aware and avoid this site or call to complain. After being a customer for a long time, I was rudely awakened to their carefully hidden policy on patient reviews. They first sell you on having your office write reviews to make you have five stars, and then after you pay them your $3,000 for the year, they will allow patients to publicly bash you without any recourse.
The comment(s), no matter how egregious and unedited will stay up and serve as your primary review under your name until you beg for other Zoc Doc new patients to write you a good review to have that atrocious comment never removed but just...
Editor's note: This extended-length letter can be read here.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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| YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP | |
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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Is this "cane" heel an omen for the future of the wearer? |
Source: Dr. Millicent Brown
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
ASC STAFF PRIVILEGES AVAILABLE - NEW JERSEY
Fair Lawn ASC (ambulatory surgical center) is accepting applications for staff privileges. NJ license needed. Patient transportation available in the tri state area. Equity buy-in available. Call 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - DC/MD/VA
?Experienced practitioner needed! ??Come join our team of top docs. Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, LLC?,? is acquiring a busy, multi-faceted practice, with all the bells and whistles. From day one?,? walk into a full schedule, as the current and well-established doctor is ready to retire. See patients, do your charting and leave the rest to us. ?Please email your resume and cover letter to newdpm@footandankle-usa.com. ?We look forward to receiving your information.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CALGARY, ALBERTA
Growing new practice is seeking a highly motivated associate. State-of-the-art office (5 exam rooms, 1 surgical suite), EMR, digital x-rays, Cutera Genesis Plus laser, shockwave therapy and orthotic scanners. Must have excellent bedside manner and people skills. Please e-mail CV to info@alpinefootankle.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - GEORGIA
Join our Team! Thriving, five location, progressive, podiatry practice seeking a family-oriented Associate Podiatrist to build career and long-term relationship. Must be surgically trained (PSR-24/36) and have EMR experience. Position available in our Statesboro, GA location, one of the fastest growing cities in Georgia and home to Georgia Southern University. Associate will have full range of services and access to Surgical Center along with access to all of the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Email CV with Cover Letter to hr@atlanticfeet.com.
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.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MICHIGAN
Professional Foot & Ankle Centers of Davison and Lapeer is seeking personable and self-motivated associate(s) looking to build a career and long-term relationship/partnership. Must have PM&S 36 or equivalent training with a good work ethic and strong surgical skills. ER call and affiliation with a major wound care center is available. Modern offices with EMR and a fantastic staff. Competitive salary, bonus, benefits. E-mail CV with cover letter to: contactus@professionalfoot.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – BRIDGEVIEW, IL
Seeking a highly motivated Podiatrist for a part-time position (two to three days a week) mainly performing home visits, with potential for growth. Transportation, equipment, and a medical assistant are provided to assist the podiatrist. Call 708-477-6512 or email podiatry_123@yahoo.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – PART TIME – NEW JERSEY
Very busy practice is seeking a PT associate in the Toms River, NJ area. Office is state of the art with electronic EHR, digital x-rays, ultrasound and fully trained medical assistants. High RNC. Must have great people skills, bedside manner, and positive demeanor. Please email toesec@aol.com. Looking for associate to start ASAP.
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - MISSOURI/KANSAS
Podiatrists needed to join the nation’s largest growing, most technologically advanced and expertly managed nursing home medical and podiatry practice. We ensure your success by providing an established patient base, scheduling and billing assistance, medical assistant, allowances for equipment, coverage of travel expenses, and the newest tablet-technology EMR system to dramatically reduce your workload so you can spend more time providing quality care to patients. We offer generous benefits and flexible scheduling: base salary available, bonus opportunities, malpractice coverage, matching 401(k), health insurance benefits. Part-time positions available. Send CV tocareers@aggeus.org. Call 866-216-5518, ext. 305. www.aggeus.org. Confidentiality assured.
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
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL 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 our website.
FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION - WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
Beautiful mountain area near Asheville. Two doctor, busy, established practice looking for associate with long term goal of partnership. Growing two-office practice that is looking to expand days and hours in both locations. Ideal candidate would have a three year residency and a combination of surgical and in-office skills to meet the needs of our patients in this rapidly growing area. EMR, laser and modern up-to-date office features. Offer to include salary, bonus and benefits. Please send CV to drh@mountainpodiatry.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – TEXAS
Seeking three-year surgically trained podiatrist for busy podiatric medical and surgical practice in Texas. Must be hard-working, open to direction, and willing to do all phases of podiatric foot and ankle care. Please send CV, and salary history to: jmh6122@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SEATTLE WA AREA
General podiatry practice with offices in Kirkland, Everett and Renton seeking an associate. Must be board qualified or certified by ABFAS. Must be self-motivated, Office is state of art with EHR, digital x-ray, ultrasound, laser. Salary with bonus and benefits. Email resume with cover letter:seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com
INDIANAPOLIS-BASED PODIATRY GROUP SEEKING FULL-TIME HOSPITALIST PODIATRIST
Very busy established practice has an immediate position available for a full-time hospital on-call podiatrist. We service two of the largest hospital organizations in Indianapolis and are in need of a hospital podiatrist to manage a high volume call schedule with 2 office clinic days per week. PSR-24 Required. Base salary plus commission, benefits and malpractice included. Contact Marla Watson, Practice Manager:marlakwatson@aol.com.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - NEW YORK CITY
PDM Treatment chair, 2 treatment room cabinets, Burton Dual overhead ceiling mount OR/Tx room lights, stainless steel surgical back table, Zimmer nitrogen powered handpieces. All in great condition. Must be sold this week. Contact Dr. Dauber at sedauber@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - NEUROTHERM NT250
Podiatherm /NT250 Incoming test procedure with various accessories. Purchased in 2012 for 7075.00 now priced @ 4995.00. Training possible Please contact me @ no1footdoc@gmail.com or 845 454 0630 ext 106
SPACE TO SHARE - MANHATTAN AND LI
Desirable locations on Upper East Side, Gramercy, the Financial District, and Plainview (North Shore Long Island). Extremity MRI and cat scan available in selected offices. Call 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - PUYALLUP, WASHINGTON - SOUTH OF SEATTLE
Established practice 3 1/2 days a week plus one day for surgery. Great practice in perfect location. Call 386 597-5766 for info.
PRACTICE FOR SALE - LONG ISLAND
30+ year old practice located on a busy street. Referrals from Doctors, Senior residence and Hospital in the community. Neighborhood is very family oriented. Good mix of general podiatry, sports injuries, DME; seniors, working population and children. Please contact: drlschwartz@hotmail.com.
PRACTICE MERGER SOUGHT – NORTHERN NJ
If you are tired of the business aspect of running your practice, and are in the Paramus, Ridgewood, or Hackensack area, I am looking for the right practice to merge into my own. I will handle all aspects of your practice. No more worrying about ordering supplies, paying suppliers, dealing with employees, health insurance or malpractice insurance. Diagnostic x-rays, laser, vascular analysis, diagnostic ultrasound, EMR, etc., available. Earn more money without the day-to-day drudgery of practice. No practice is too small to consider. All information discussed will be considered confidential. E-mail Lfg3657@optonline.net
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.
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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.
| | Guidelines |
- To Post a message, send it to: bblock@podiatrym.com
- Notes should be original and may not be submitted to
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permission.
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RE: (Topic)
From: (your name, DPM)
Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use
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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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