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| PM News | |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,677 Podiatrists Daily
December 07, 2013 #4,935  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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| EDITOR'S NOTE | |
Remember to Vote for Dr. Degen
Yesterday's PM News featured a story about Dr. Gary Degen, a Kentucky podiatrist who is a finalist in a National Football League contest with a prize of three Superbowl tickets. You can show your support for a fellow colleague and help him win by voting here.
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| PM NEWS QUICK POLL | |
LAST DAY TO VOTE
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| PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS | |
Podiatry One of the Twelve Fastest-Growing Healthcare Jobs
With the Affordable Health Care Act, job opportunities in the healthcare industry are growing, and CareerCast.com has created a list of the hottest jobs in the sector. "More insured people means an increase in the need for different types of health services, ranging from direct care to research and maintenance of medical records," says Tony Lee, publisher of CareerCast.com.
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The top two highest paying and fastest growing healthcare jobs. |
There are 12 jobs that will see the fastest growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' (BLS) projections. Podiatrists had the second highest annual median salary: $116,440 with a BLS Projected Growth of 20 percent.
Source: ABC News Radio [12/5/13]
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| PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR | |
Varying Heel Heights Prevents Muscular Changes: MD Podiatrist
Foot doctors resoundingly recommend wearing comfortable shoes while commuting for women who feel pressured to wear heels every day as part of their office dress code. Dr. James Christina, director of scientific affairs for the American Podiatric Medical Association, said those women should also vary the heel height regularly to avoid any kind of muscular changes because of their choice of footwear.
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Dr. James Christina |
“If you know you’re going to have to go to a party and you’re not going to be standing the whole time, it may be okay to be in a higher-than-normal heel for shorter periods of time,” Christina said. If it’s an event with a lot of standing or walking, though, he recommends a shorter heel.
Source: Tara Garcia Mathewson, San Diego Union Tribune [12/3/13]
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| PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS | |
Nerve Health Support Supplement Introduced For Sale by Podiatrists
Nutritional supplements company Inergetics Inc. has announced the availability of Intrinsix, which is the only podiatry-exclusive nerve health support supplement enriched with calcium and vitamin D. They are in partnership with The Podiatree Company, a provider of podiatry pharmaceuticals.
According to the company, Intrinsix contains a unique pharmacist-formulated blend of alpha lipoic acid, benfotiamine, calcium, and vitamins B6, B12, and D. The formula is safe for patients with strict dietary restrictions, including vegetarians and those with sugar-free, sodium-free, and starch-free diets.
Source: Equitybites via COMTEX [12/4/13]
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| CODINGLINE CORNER | |
Query: Venipuncture Non-Payment
I've been advised by our coding and reimbursement department that Medicare doesn't pay for venipuncture when performed in a podiatry office. If we send the patient to the hospital, are the services reimbursed? How are others handling lab draws on Medicare patients in Illinois?
Theresa Hughes, DPM, Galesburg, IL
Response: I suggest that you enlist the help of the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association in petitioning the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (Podiatry) to see if this is a procedure within the scope-of-podiatric practice. If it is, and I can't believe it wouldn't be, then a letter from the Department to the MAC should suffice to open the code for podiatrists.
I find it much easier to perform venipuncture in my office and send in the samples using code CPT 36415 (routine venipuncture).
Paul Kinberg, DPM, Dallas, TX
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: Simon Young, DPM, Stephen Musser, DPM
Consider sesamoiditis or a sesamoid fracture.
Have you tested her biomechanically for first ray instability? Looking at the AP view, she has a long first metatarsal, which can be corrected with an Austin bunionectomy/Kalish modification (long dorsal arm). This would correct the TSP as well. I don't see a rounded metatarsal head that would be an issue.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1B | |
From: Scott Hughes, DPM, Don Steinfeld, DPM
The primary deforming force is a long 1st metatarsal. I think a shortening head osteotomy, or if you want to be more aggressive, reducing the IM with a Scarf will work. But with either, a medial wedge to reduce PASA would be the best procedure choice. Remember to plantarflex the osteotomy so you don't lose 'purchase' of the 1st met head with shortening.
You haven't mentioned the fact that this is an adductus foot. Any conservative attempt will lead to a disappointing result. I have taught myself this lesson more than once. Be forewarned.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL/LEGAL)- PART 1 | |
From: Michael L. Brody, DPM
EHR requirements are that a patient have access to a limited data set. This includes: active problems, active medications, active medication allergies, vital signs, test results, and a number of other items that can be put into a list.
The patient chart notes is just one of the items that is NOT included in the information that the patient must be able to view online. So, the online requirement is not the complete medical record. When a patient requests a copy of the records, it is the complete record they are requesting.
If the patient requests a copy of the records, you will need to follow the same policies and procedures you currently have in place.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (MEDICAL/LEGAL) - PART 2 | |
From: Jeffrey Kass, DPM
Dr. Udell brings up one of many SERIOUS problems with this new scope bill.
1) Not many of the practicing podiatrists even know what the new law is.
2) The law as written will increase scope for less than 1% of the current practicing podiatrists.
3) There is absolutely no alternate pathway for one to achieve an increased scope without going back and completing a 3-year residency that is rearfoot and...
Editor's Note: Dr. Kass' extended-length letter can be read here.
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) | |
From: Tip Sullivan, DPM
I tell all patients BEFORE surgery that there is no human on this earth who can perform a perfect surgery. Mama used to say you can’t make chicken salad out of chicken poop. I typically review pre- and post-op x-ray with them on the first post-op visit. We again review what our goals were (the same ones discussed during consent) and how well we did achieving them. If there was a technical problem during the case (i.e. screw stripped or fracture, etc.), I tell them and then tell them how I accommodated for it. If I didn’t get as much correction as I would have liked to, I tell them and I explain why. Patients understand that we are not perfect and if we can take the time to explain things to them in their terms, they usually understand.
Our courts would be much less crowded in the malpractice area if all doctors spent more time explaining things to their patients. I believe that this still happens in the small private practice setting much more than in the multi-physician clinics where there are patient quotas and maybe even competitions to see who can see the most patients. I have a small solo practice and see patients almost daily because they were not happy with the amount of time spent explaining things to them and the doctor-patient relationships formed in other practices.
Common sense usually will get you pretty far. CARe is common sense!
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) - PART 1A | |
From: Robert Creighton, DPM
The most interesting discussion about our scope of practice laws with regard to treating a lower extremity disorder with a recommendation that has systemic ramifications is once again being raised in this forum. This is a healthy reflection of a medical profession that is continuing to evolve and think like physicians. We can't escape the fact that the foot and leg are attached to the rest of the body. I have no doubt all involved in this discussion want the best for our unique medical specialty.
It's high-time our administrative leaders formally address this area in the proper and thorough medicolegal context if we as profession desire to maintain our positive evolutionary trajectory. The profession at large deserves it, and we owe it to our current and recent graduates from whom we now demand three years of post-doctoral medical and surgical training.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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| RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NEWS STORIES) - PART 1B | |
From: Ron Raducanu, DPM
Dr. Kornfeld, please link any scientific studies that show that diet has a global systemic anti-inflammatory effect, enough so to affect the pain and inflammatory response associated with plantar fasciitis. I would be very curious to read and evaluate the data available with respect to this topic. I would also very much like to learn what an anti-inflammatory diet is, and how the components of this diet have a specific anti-inflammatory effect.
That being said, diet and its effect on the morbidity associated with obesity and diabetes are very well documented. The same can be said for the effect diet has on patients who have gout. The global systemic effect of NSAID abuse is also well documented scientifically. This information has been known and is available through the scientific method for generations.
Lastly, I fail to see how one doctor's opinions can eventually lead to the "slow and painful death" of podiatry. Two extreme opinions are hardly the litmus test for the survivability of a profession. Moderation is the key to life, is it not?
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 3
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Choose any or ALL (50 CME Contact Hours) from the 30+ CME Category-1 articles posted
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| CLASSIFIED ADS |
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 – 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 - BOSTON SUBURB
Excellent opportunity to join a well-established practice. Located in western suburb of Boston. Office includes EMR, digital x-ray, orthotic scanner. Seeking personable, enthusiastic, motivated associate with goal to become partner. Practice includes surgery, sports medicine, general podiatry. PSR 24/36. Send CV to: jstewartdpm@comcast.net
IMMEDIATE OPENING - SOUTH JERSEY
Exceptional opportunity for a full-time, surgically trained podiatrist to join a busy, well rounded practice covering all aspects of podiatry including; surgery, wound care, and sports medicine. Must be highly motivated, personable, and have good communication skills. The practice is affiliated with a hospital residency program. Opportunity for future buy-in/partnership. Please send cover letter and CV tosuperstarstaff1@gmail.com. In the subject line, please write, "I am your next associate."
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
ASSOCIATE POSITION –OH
Group practice in Ohio seeks a well-trained surgeon, PSR24/36 preferred. Our practice provides all of the latest technology needed to provide patients with the best care, including Lasers, PAD Testing, DME, EMR and Digital X-ray. Competitive compensation package including salary and bonus. Please send CV to: DPMgroup1@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION – LONG ISLAND, NY
Looking for an experienced ethical, board certified/qualified podiatrist, must be personable, energetic and highly motivated. Well rounded practice incorporating all phases of podiatry including general podiatry, surgery, wound care, orthopedics. P/T, F/T position available, excellent salary. Please email CV to:jobke@aol.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
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 - 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.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – USED PINPOINTE LASER
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 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
PRACTICE FOR SALE – GLENDALE, CA
Retiring from part-time practice averaging 15 hours a week practice, grossing well over $130,000 a year. No HMO, PPO or hospital surgeries (but located 20 minutes from 5 major area hospitals). Only accepting private insurance, Medicare and cash. Not participating in the diabetic shoe program. Unique practice specializing in off label liquid SILICONE injections (no insurance…cash only), Cryoneuroablation, x-rays, ultrasound imaging, Lixiscope, soft tissue surgeries, and some palliative care. In same great location, in the center of everything for the past 43 years. Unlimited potential. Call 818-384-2479.
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
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