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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,694 Podiatrists Daily
December 04, 2013 #4,932  Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com
E-mail us by hitting the reply key.
COPYRIGHT 2013- 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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| ASFP NEWS | |
ASFP Announces New Officers and Board of Directors
The American Society of Forensic Podiatry (ASFP) recently held elections for Board Members, President, and Secretary/Treasurer. The following are the results for the 2013-2014 term:
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Dr. John DiMaggio |
President - John A. DiMaggio, DPM
President-Elect - Steven Wachter, DPM
Secretary-Treasurer - Bryan Kagan, DPM
Member at Large - David Agoada, DPM
Member at Large - Michael S. Nirenberg, DPM
Member at large - Christine Miller, DPM
Member at Large Wesley Vernon, OBE, PhD
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| HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
CA Podiatrist to be Medical Director at Amputation Prevention Center
Dr. Lee Rogers has been selected to be the founding medical director of the Amputation Prevention Center at Sherman Oaks Hospital (located in Sherman Oaks - Los Angeles). Rogers is currently a candidate for U.S. Congress in California's 25th District.
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Dr. Lee Rogers |
Sherman Oaks Hospital selected the former burn center as the location for the new Amputation Prevention Center. The center will have dedicated inpatient and outpatient space, two dedicated operating rooms, and two hyperbaric oxygen chambers, all in one location.
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| PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS | |
3-D Scanner Provides Insight into Weight-Bearing Forces on the Feet
Orthopedic technology company CurveBeam have developed a 3-D scanner, which for the first time allows medical professionals insight into the way the foot behaves and functions in a weight-bearing position, which is of particular relevance to regular wearers of high heels.
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Brenden Brown |
“Anything higher than an inch puts a significant amount of pressure on your feet,” confirms podiatrist Brenden Brown. “The action of wearing a high-heeled shoe raises the heel up and forces the bones of the feet, the metatarsals, to point down. This deviated position puts an enormous amount of pressure on these small bones and the joints that connect the toes,” he explains.
Source: Cassy Small, Sydney Morning Herald [11/29/13]
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| PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY | |
Truly Listen to Patients
There is no debating that the number one purpose of listening is to capture the details of your patients' statements. However, when you actively listen to them, you have the power to do much more. You make that person feel valued, understood, and respected. Listening is the best way to build relationships and trust. So don’t squander the opportunity, and always fully tune in to what your patients are saying.
Source: Adapted from “Using the Big Ears Approach to Listen Better Naturally!” Kevin Eikenberry via Communication Briefings [December 2013]
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| QUERIES (CLINICAL) | |
Query: Diabetic with Lymphedema and Difficult-to-Fit Feet
My patient is a 75 year old morbidly obese diabetic female with very difficult-to-fit feet because of severe lymphedema. I finally tried casting her feet for molded shoes (TruMold). I have had the shoes modified with straps and Velcro; yet she still “walks out” of the shoe if the posterior strap is just snug, and she cannot tolerate the shoe (“too tight”) if I put more traction on the rear strap. The high toe box seems to work, but the severe lymphedema (intractable to compression) that includes the foot and ankle, precludes her from wearing any footwear.
I have two questions: what can I do now? Do I try recasting (if so, it will be the 4th time)? Is there another company I might try? Does anyone know of a company that might try to modify these shoes again? Is there some chance that Medicare will pay for failed shoes, and if so, what code would I use?
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| QUERIES (MEDICAL-LEGAL) | |
Query: Crash Cart Requirements
I am just curious if there are minimum requirements/standards regarding crash carts in a podiatry office? I am having trouble getting a definite answer. Any help is appreciated.
Jay Adamovich, Beachwood, OH
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: United Medicare Complete and Diabetic Shoes
We are having issues with UnitedHealthcare regarding diabetic shoes. The Medicare requirements clearly state calendar year, but United (UHC) has taken it upon themselves to define "year" as the 365 days following the delivery of the previous year's pair of therapeutic shoes. For example, we dispensed a pair of shoes to a patient in July of 2012. Those were replaced and dispensed April of 2013. .....well UHC has stated only one pair per year...NOT calendar year but it must be 365 days from delivery of the previous pair. Is anyone else having this issue with UHC Medicare Complete patients? How should this be handled?
Hal Bozof, DPM, Ft. Myers, FL
Response: The question here is whether a Medicare Advantage Plan has to offer a benefit with the exact same frequency as traditional Medicare. Attempt to resolve this with UnitedHealthcare (UHC) internally through their regular appeals process. Be prepared to provide them with the full copy of the Medicare LCD, and highlight the benefit frequency. You might even ask the outreach and education department from your DME MAC for a clarification point on the frequency of this covered benefit to send to UHC.
After all this fails, you can forward all this to your regional CMS office. Each one has a Medicare Advantage liaison who may be able to assist you. Your state CAC or PIAC Rep (contact UFO can be obtained from the Florida Podiatric Medical Association) should also be enlisted to assist you. After all is said and done, even if you eventually win, you will have expended lots of time and energy and UHC will not likely change their policy, but only their decision on this one claim. In addition, it's likely that UHC will pay you less than traditional Medicare, which begs the question, to whom is this plan an advantage? The lesson I take away from this is not to assume that a Medicare Advantage Plan will exactly follow traditional Medicare's policies. Obtain the policy in advance.
Paul Kesselman, DPM, Woodside, NY
Codingline subscription information can be found here
APMA Members: Click here for your free Codingline Silver subscription
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1A | |
From: Stephen Musser, DPM
This chronic condition is/can be frustrating to treat. Besides high potency topical steroids, apply a protective bandage/wrap (Unna boot) to protect the area from irritation. I also recommend monthly non-aggressive debridement as a way to prevent bacterial colonization/infection.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1B | |
From: Victor Chen, DPM,
Consider a course of oral corticosteroids. Rule out other possible concomitant conditions such as venous disease and bacterial infection.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL/LEGAL) | |
From: Daniel Chaskin, DPM
"There should be some form of alternate pathway for everyone! The fact is that there isn't, and that there won't be is shameful. An alternative path could exist " - Kass
Regarding the above, I believe an alternative pathway should exist in every state. Such equivalency criteria can consist of a certain number of years in practice in a sister state for all those who do not meet the residency and or board certification requirements for a basic podiatry license. I feel the first step should be to have every state accept a certain number of years in successful practice as a podiatrist as meeting any residency equivalency criteria in every state.
Furthermore, if an unmatched podiatrist is able to become licensed and currently competent as a podiatrist, he/she should be enabled to move from state to state without restriction due to residency criteria.
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The Traumatic & Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgical Fellowship Program sponsored by the Southeast Permanente Medical Group in Atlanta, Georgia, is now accepting applications for the 2014-2015 training year.
Our fellowship program has recently been granted candidate status by the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and offers an exemplary opportunity for advanced lower extremity surgical training. The Southeast Permanente Medical Group (TSMPG) is one of the largest multi-specialty medical groups in Georgia, working with the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan to provide medical care to members in metropolitan Atlanta. The foot & ankle fellow will be provided a broad-based clinical experience focused on adult reconstructive surgery, including sports-related injuries, Charcot reconstruction, total ankle replacement, and traumatic injuries of the lower leg, ankle and foot.
Interested senior residents can find a program application and other information on line at: www.acfas.org/fellowshiptucker/ Daniel J. Tucker, DPM, FACFAS, Director, Traumatic and Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgical Fellowship, The Southeast Permanente Medical Group, 770-677-6021 Daniel.J.Tucker@kp.org
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
RE: Postings by Dr. Bijak
From: Brian Kiel, DPM
We need more Robert Bijaks in our profession. Those who go along without questioning or challenging are doomed to mediocrity. Keep it up, Dr. Bijak.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) | |
From: Brian Kiel, DPM
There was a media blurb in which one podiatrist stated that one should wear thick cotton socks for cold weather. Not only is that wrong, but cotton is the worst thing one could wear in cold weather. Cotton is not warm, not insulating, and gets worse when wet. The best materials by far are synthetics and fleece, followed by wool.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
LOOKING TO PURCHASE A PRACTICE IN PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL
Obamacare!? Looking to get out...or stay? I am looking to purchase a practice in Palm Beach County, FL. Contact Ian S. Goldbaum, DPM at (561) 702-5637
PRACTICE FOR SALE – SOUTHWEST QUEENS, NEW YORK
Busy, well established , fully equipped , newly redecorated office in good neighborhood. Grossing approximately $500k. Doctor relocating, but will stay on through July. Contact dfoot35@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED CUTERA GENESISPLUS LASER
Purchased new July 2011, new handpiece, updated software and re-calibrated in September 2013. This is a great laser for treating toenail fungus, scar reduction & warts. $33,500.00 OBO. Please email dman1hansen@gmail.com or call 801-870-4161
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET
Padnet vascular testing machine with updated security software (purchased in 2012). Perfect condition only used for training. We do not have the patient population to provide this valuable diagnostic tool. Purchased for 20K, asking 12K (and we will pay for shipping costs). Please contact vcrismali@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT WANTED - LASER FOR TOENAILS
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ARKANSAS
Ethical, highly motivated, enthusiastic associate needed to join successful, well-established practice located in Northwest Arkansas. Certified/qualified by ABPS with rearfoot training preferred. The practice has an excellent working relationship with a high referral base from local PCPs and other specialists. Well-rounded practice incorporates general podiatry, surgery, wound care, and sports medicine. Salary plus excellent bonus potential for the right individual. Send CV to: footdocmanager@yahoo.com.
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION – CHICAGO, IL
part-time opportunity in Chicago to provide treatment to homebound patients. You can create your schedule- logistical support provided. Reimbursement is 40% of collection. If interested, please call 312-375-6430.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – CONNECTICUT (HARTFORD AREA)
Available immediately. Looking for a Board Certified Surgeon with strong RF and ankle skills. This 20 year established practice offers EHR, digital x-ray and Noveon laser. All dues, malpractice and health insurance paid as well as 401K available. Excellent compensation. email lynnleblanc@cox.net
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 www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Very busy, two location group practice seeking a full-time, self-motivated and hard-working podiatry associate. Competitive salary offered. Please email CV to: podiatrists@icloud.com
IMMEDIATE POSITION AVAILABLE IN SW FLORIDA
Podiatrist to join a small group must be Florida licensed surgical privileges pending experience. Board Certification or Qualified preferred but not necessary. Some nursing home care and also limited traveling. Excellent pay and lifestyle. Send resume to 1Foot.Ankle@Gmail.com
IMMEDIATE ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Largest podiatry group in Polk County featuring EMR, muscle laser therapy, digital x-rays, vascular and NCV studies, ultrasound machines, shockwave therapy, and much more. We are a very busy office so expect patients the day you start and a competitive salary with bonuses. E-mail CV tocontactus@flfootandankle.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA BAY AREA
Excellent opportunity to join a well-established multi-office group practice in the beautiful Tampa Bay area starting July 2014. We are seeking a highly motivated, ethical and outgoing physician with Florida license to join our growing practice. Competitive salary, excellent benefits, bonus structure with partnership opportunity. Please email CV to Kpontious9@yahoo.com
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
DIABETES MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP - CENTRAL KENTUCKY
CVs and letters of interest are being accepted now for the most unique and well-rounded fellowship in podiatric medicine. This non-accredited, 1-year fellowship starts in July of 2014 and offers a wide variety of training opportunities that focus on diabetes, including diverse pathologies and unique medical and surgical opportunities. Regular surgical case load, intensive practice management, and the best prep for real world practice. Work with our on-staff certified orthotist, physical therapist, shoe store staff, MRI director, etc. Generous stipend, benefits, and free housing. Learn more at www.myhappyfoot.com (click the Fellowship Tab). Send CVs to jmoore@aappm.org.
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 15,500 DPMs 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 15,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $119 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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| 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
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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
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either timely or free of viruses.
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