The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

December 21, 2012 #4,644 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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FL Podiatrist Performs Bunion Surgery on Tennis Star

Serena Williams has had surgery on her big toes and withdrew from an exhibition match against top-ranked Victoria Azarenka in Thailand this month. A medical certificate from Florida podiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Rockefeller says Williams "was treated for a chronic foot disorder which involved minor procedures on both of her great toes."

Serena Willams and Dr. Jeffrey Rockefeller

Rockefeller said she needs to minimize activity to fully recover. Williams, the WTA player of the year after winning Wimbledon, the U.S. Open and London Olympics, was replaced by Li Na for the exhibition on Dec. 29 in Hua Hin.

Source: Associated Press [12/19/12]

APMA and NAF Team Up With Jerry Mathers to Raise Awareness

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), the nation's leading professional organization for podiatrists, and Neuropathy Action Foundation (NAF), the premier patient advocacy organization for neuropathy education, have joined together to produce an educational video focusing on diabetic peripheral neuropathy featuring celebrity Jerry Mathers from the hit sitcom "Leave It to Beaver."

Jerry Mathers as "The Beaver" and Today

Mathers explains in the video that he has been diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but proactively monitoring blood glucose levels, following medication therapies, and seeking care by a podiatrist have worked for him.

Source: sys-con.com [12/18/12]

NV Podiatrists Conduct Shoe Drive for the Needy

Sierra Foot & Ankle (SFA) in Gardnerville is collecting gently used shoes for the Rural Center for Independent Living through the month of December. With the cold temperatures kicking in, the center is in particular need of adult-sized shoes appropriate for winter conditions. For every 10 pairs of shoes collected, SFA will donate a new pair of shoes from their shoe store.

(L-R) Drs. Victoria Melhuish and Christine Dobrowolski

The Rural Center for Independent Living is a privately-owned community support organization that connects people with disabilities with the services they need. The center's services range from the most basic needs of daytime shelter, food, and clothing, to advocacy, health, and human resources, and computer access. 

Source: The Record-Courier [12/19/12]

Specialists: Replace SGR This Year

In a letter to congressional leaders, the Alliance of Specialty Medicine is calling on Congress to create a permanent replacement for the sustainable growth-rate Medicare payment formula by the end of the year. If Congress does not act, an SGR-driven 26.5% pay cut will take effect Jan. 1. The letter from the alliance— a coalition of 13 medical specialty societies — notes that there is also the potential for another 2% Medicare pay decrease if Congress does not act to stop across-the-board cuts called for in 2011's Budget Control Act.

This payment uncertainty has led to physicians not making investments in electronic health records or other improvements to their practice infrastructure, the alliance said in the letter. It added that others are reconsidering their Medicare participation or limiting the number of Medicare patients they see. Ultimately, they argued, these potential cuts threaten seniors' access to healthcare and lead to longer waits to see a physician.

Source: Andis Robeznieks, Modern Physician [12/17/12]

Query: Displaced MBA Implant

An 18 year old female had arthroeresis performed bilaterally 7 years ago at age 11. The contralateral side is asymptomatic. As you can see in the x-ray, the implant on her left foot has shifted. Her weight-bearing radiographs show excellent foot position, and her calcaneal stance position is only a couple of degrees valgus. The implant moves and "catches" frequently, most often precipitated by NWB motion, which seems to open the sinus tarsi. She is a college softball pitching prospect. She has no pain while actually pitching, but if the implant "catches", she needs a few minutes until it relocates. Her left foot is her plant foot for pitching. The dislocation has been happening more frequently in the past year.

Displaced MBA Implant

My question is: can I remove the MBA implant without replacing it with another type of device? I would prefer to remove it and see what happens, but the patient is concerned her foot will simply collapse without the implant. I doubt this, but have no experience removing one that has been in this long. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
 
Neil Levin, DPM, Sycamore, IL

Query: Definition of Diabetic

How is a diabetic defined? I've had patients come to the office stating that they are diabetic, but are taking no medications. When I asked them why do they think they are diabetic, they usually say it's because their doctor told them so, or they are "pre-diabetic."

In some cases, patients had previously been on medication and are no longer on medication, and I am then told that they are being "watched" by their primary care physician. As far as billing insurance for a procedure or procedures that are only allowed if a patient is diabetic, would this type of patient qualify?

Charles Morelli, DPM, Mamaroneck, NY

RE: Policy for Handguns in a Podiatric Office (Frank Lattarulo, DPM)
From: Carl Ganio, DPM, Alan Shier, DPM

Your policy regarding handguns in the office should reflect and respect Federal and State Laws. In concealed-carry states such as Florida, it is not illegal to carry a gun into your physicians' offices. I have had many officers with weapons on their hip, and many patients with concealed weapons in their purse or fanny pack. So what? I await responses from podiatrists in states where it is perfectly legal to carry un-concealed weapons. 

Do not allow this tragedy change the importance and intent that our Constitutional Forefathers forged into the Second Amendment. You have no idea how many weapons have passed in your presence without your knowledge...and perhaps someone carrying will save your life one day.  Do not blame the weapon.

Carl Ganio, DPM, Vero Beach, FL, drcarlganio@veropodiatry.biz

Why would you have a problem with a law enforcement officer carrying his service weapon in your office? They usually carry their weapon wherever they are while off duty. We want them to! Who else would be carrying a legal weapon in NYC?

Alan Shier, DPM, Little Falls, NJ, alan553@aol.com

RE: Policy for Handguns in a Podiatric Office (Frank Lattarulo, DPM)
From: Philip McKinney, DPM

Policy regarding handguns in the office. You mean for staff or patients? Do you have a problem with guns in your office now? Why is this even an issue? Do you have other amendments to the Constitution that you have issues with? Perhaps, we should get rid of any newspapers or news magazines. No Christmas or Hanukkah seasonal displays?

If an individual comes into the office with a concealed weapon, it is concealed, no one else is going to see it; if they have a permit, it is legal. You're going to deny them their Constitutional rights like what's being done in the city of New York? You think that the individual coming into your office meaning to do you or your staff harm is going to be concerned at all with your “policy”?

I have a gun; many of my patients have guns. I have multiple law enforcement patients who are often seen during duty lunch breaks. Guns in the office are not an issue. In my twenty plus years of practice, I have drawn my gun in the office twice and fired it once. I am responsible for myself, my staff, and any patients in the office. I am not going to allow someone high on meth (common here) to assault me or anyone in my office. Perhaps, you should look more to establishing a policy for those who wish to do harm to those in your office because if you post a “policy” towards guns, the only people who are going to respect it are the law-abiding individuals, not the ones you should be concerned about.
 
Philip McKinney, DPM,  Eugene, OR, opodiatry@oregonpodiatry.net

RE: Efficacy of "Pain: Creams (Tip Sullivan, DPM)
From: Allen Jacobs, DPM

I have been following with great interest the recent thread in PM News regarding topical compounded medication. There seemed to be several misconceptions regarding true topical compounding.

True topical compounding, from my perspective, utilizes individual combinations of recognized agents for the treatment of pain, neuropathy, or dermatologic conditions. The mere fact that a
company produces a pre-made "pain cream" as has been discussed in these threads is not my understanding of compounded medications.

If we look at the patient over the age of 65, ...

Editor's note: Dr. Jacobs' extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Become a Better Public Speaker - Join Toastmasters
From: Michael Forman, DPM

The discussion of Toastmasters brought back  one of my fondest memories. We had a resident in our program who had a significant speech impediment. I noticed some improvement during his residency as he was going to Toastmaster meetings. We became used to his speech problem during case presentations after a short while no one really heard the stutter, just his excellent presentations.

Toward the end  of his residency he said he wanted to apply to speak at the Ohio Podiatric Medical Association annual resident competition. He wanted to put his skills to the test. I agreed and made him our representative, but certainly had reservations. At the meeting, I am sure I was more nervous than he was. I didn't care if he placed in the competition, I just didn't want to him to embarrass himself. You can guess the end of the story. He did incredibly well. His paper was important and his speech pattern was excellent. Clear - slow - concise. We all were so proud; but when he was announced as the winner among these well-trained highly educated podiatric residents; we were elated. All of his attendings and fellow residents in attendance were overwhelmed with pride and joy.

Michael Forman, DPM, Cleveland, OH, im4man@aol.com

ASTORIA PODIATRY OFFICE FOR RENT/SHARE

BEST ASTORIA location. 30TH AVE./32nd ST. Turn-key operation with 4 fully equipped, built-out exam rooms, private Drs.' Office/Consult room, X-ray, cryo-therapy, beautiful waiting area, large staff area, Shockwave, Multiple Lasers etc. Perfect for NEW PODIATRIST or SATELLITE location. ALL you need is a PHONE and COMPUTER! RENT includes all other standard expenses (utilities, cleaning, waste disposal etc.) P/T, $2500. F/T., $3500. Please send inquiries to hansfeet2@gmail.com.

NYC PODIATRY OFFICE FOR RENT/SHARE

BEST NYC location. FIFTH AVE/42ND ST. Turnkey operation with two fully equipped, built out exam rooms, third exam room if needed , X-ray, Shockwave, lasers etc. Perfect for NEW PODIATRIST or SATELLITE location. ALL you need is a PHONE ,and COMPUTER! Even has in-office Physical Therapist for you to work with! RENT includes all other standard expenses (utilities, cleaning, waste disposal etc.) P/T, $2250. F/T., $3000 Please send inquiries to hansfeet2@gmail.com.

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed PODO2345@AOL.COM 516-476-1815.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - USED Q-CLEAR LASER

Still under warranty. New laser head just added. First Best Offer. Marketing and training included. Dr. Zuckerman will train you. e-mail with questions to mook863@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/SF BAY AREA

We’re looking for someone entrepreneurial to join our growing practice. Must have great people skills, clinical/surgical skills, and positive demeanor. California license required. No nursing home visits. Send your CV and cover letter to: cvpodiatrist@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, six figure salary, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future, this position will provide for the possibility of partnership in the future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - GRAPEVINE, TEXAS

Do you want to practice in a fast paced office environment? Do you like all aspects of podiatric medicine? Very busy 2 office practice looking for associate to add to our group of 5. If you are a forward thinking, surgically trained podiatrist send your CV to giacalone@faant.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Welcome to paradise! Immediate opening in a busy, multi-location practice. Six figure income potential possible for the motivated individual in the first year. Surgical training a plus. Hospital privileges available, depending o training. Must be Florida licensed. Great benefit package. Send CV and cover letter to 1foot.ankle@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - LEADING TO FULL OWNERSHIP 20 MINUTES NORTH OF BOSTON MA

Well-established practice & beautiful modern office and equipment great location. X-ray, EMR, ultrasound. Great work ethic needed. Fast track to ownership. Competitive starting salary. Well-rounded practice was grossing over 600K. Strong emphasis on surgery & sports medicine. Send CV to footguru@cox.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ORANGE COUNTY, NY

Full-Time or part-time. Looking for a highly motivated, surgical trained podiatrist in Orange County, NY (West Point). Hospital, wound center and surgical center affiliated. A busy practice that covers hospital in-patients, wound center, and ER calls. Must be trained in all foot surgery and be able to handle advanced diabetic wound care. 1 hour car ride from NYC and close to hiking, fishing, skiing and state parks. Email CV and contact info to: clsp4@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

Established and modern podiatry practice seeking well trained podiatrist for our two offices located in the Hudson Valley. Individuals must be highly motivated, ethical, and have PM & S-36 training. Partnership potential! Please see our recruitment video (845) 471-2243, esims@simspodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT - (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 - MICHIGAN

Multi-doctor practice looking to add associate for two offices in Flint, MI. Partnership opportunity for right person. Needs to be proficient in forefoot surgery. Two docs already proficient in rearfoot/ankle surgery. Competitive salary, paid vacation and seminars. Patient schedule available “now” from retiring associate. Email resume flintfootdocneeded@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY / BROOKLYN

Full time office locations. Excellent opportunity for a motivated, ethical and enthusiastic associate to join a successful, well established hospital affiliated practice. Must be residency trained PSR 24/36.Board eligible/certified by ABPS preferred. Must be competent in forefoot and rearfoot surgery. Competitive salary with incentives. Email CV to DRSTEVEMENNA@GMAIL.COM

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

If you are a graduating resident, in July, or 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 group with you. We are a 17-doctor group, with 12 locations. Significant patient flow already in place to keep you busy from the start! All the bells and whistles-EMR, digital x-rays, ultrasound, computerized scheduling, certified ambulatory surgical centers, hospital and physician referral base. Please send cover letter and resume to newdpm@footandankle-usa.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY

Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. I am 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 a doctor who is as committed to your success as he is to his own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PORTLAND, OREGON

Busy office with good steady referral sources looking to expand. Areas of expertise wanted: wound care, surgery of all aspects, knowledge of running an office. Please come with good personality and hard work ethic. New main and satellite offices. Email: office.pfac@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NYC & QUEENS

P/T position available for PSR-3 MIN. Must have winning personality, highly skilled , ambitious and EXCELLENT work ethic. Hourly salary with % of net revenues generated. Possible F/T and partnership opportunity. Email cover letter & resume to hansfeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

PODIATRISTS WANTED - NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Excellent opportunity for independent, professionally managed practice in skilled nursing facilities. E-mail interest and CV to ZBUBBLESZ@aol.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Exciting Opportunity! Associate position. Must be Board Qualified. Joining all Board Certified Doctors in foot surgery and reconstructive rear-foot and ankle surgery. Respond to: Podiatryoffice@doctor.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NC PIEDMONT

Excellent opportunity for highly motivated, ethical, and personable PSR 24/36. This well established, 3-physician practice has excellent rapport with physician community, multiple office locations, and hospital privileges. Intent is an associate leading to partnership for the right individual. Competitive salary & benefits. Email CV to dpmassociatenc@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Busy multi office practice with latest in technology EMR, digital X-rays. Looking for BQ/BC by ABPS. Must be able to handle rearfoot/ankle trauma and reconstructive cases. Paid vacation, health insurance and partnership. 6 figures salary guarantee. New or experience practitioners welcomed. Email: mny1029@gmail.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 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 14,000 DPMs. Write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 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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