The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

December 24, 2012 #4,646 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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OPMA Changes Its Name to Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association (OHFAMA)

The Ohio Podiatric Medical Association (OPMA) has announced that the Office of the Ohio Secretary of State has accepted the business filing of a DBA name for the OPMA to the Ohio Foot and Ankle Medical Association (OHFAMA). The DBA name was officially adopted at OPMA House of Delegates on December 1. The SOS Office notification was received on December 20. The new DBA/Fictitious name is to be used when appropriate. 

The rationale for the change was for public and legislative recognition, since the words podiatry and podiatric are not commonly distinguished but often confused with pediatric. The association will continue to retain the name of the Ohio Podiatric Medical Association for tax and other professional affiliated purposes. The DBA name better aligns Ohio podiatric physicians with the APMA Vision 2015 in public and institutional recognition of the profession.

FL Podiatrist Publishes Children's Book

Tampa podiatrist Dr. Robert Creighton recently published his illustrated children's book that depicts a child who simply gets enjoyment out of playing with pillows by kicking them wherever he goes until his father creatively teaches him that this may not be the best thing to do. Told in a fun, lighthearted manner “Me, My Pillow and Kicking Feet” is geared towards children ages 3-6 years old and is appropriate as a pre-school book.

Dr. Robert Creighton and his new book

Dr. Creighton is a Tampa podiatrist and board certified foot surgeon. He graduated in 1988 from The Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, which is now the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida.

NY Podiatrist Named Medical Director of Hospital's Wound Care Center

Richard Altwerger, DPM has been named Medical Director at Albany Memorial Hospital’s Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine. The Center utilizes state-of-the-art individual hyperbaric chambers to provide therapy to treat wound conditions, including diabetic wounds of the lower extremity.

Dr. Richard Altwerger

Dr. Altwerger is a former president of the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. In addition to his duties at Albany Memorial Hospital, he practices in Troy and Schodack, NY.

IN Podiatrist Sentenced in Healthcare Fraud Scheme

A suspended South Holland podiatrist will serve 18 months in a federal prison for his part in a health fraud scheme. In addition to the sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Charles Kocoras ordered Dr. Paschal U. Oparah, 47, to pay $791,095 in restitution, stated a U.S. Department of Justice news release. Federal authorities said Oparah, who pleaded guilty to healthcare fraud in April 2011, cooperated in the government’s investigation of House Call Physicians LLC in southwest suburban Palos Hills.

Source: Jim Masters, NWI Times [12/21/12]

NY Podiatrist Accused of Healthcare Fraud

A podiatrist in Rockland has been charged with submitting more than $84,000 in phony claims to insurance companies, officials said today. Laura Piluso, 44, of Chester, NY faces one felony count each of second-degree grand larceny and first-degree falsifying business records. Investigators said that between February 2011 and March of this year, Piluso, who was working at Rockland Podiatry in Bardonia, allegedly submitted hundreds of fake medical bills to various healthcare providers totaling more than $84,000. The alleged victims include Empire Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Oxford, GHI, and Medicare. Piluso was also accused of falsely filing the fraudulent medical billing to her own medical billing company and cheating Rockland Podiatry out of its share of the billing.

Source: Jane Lerner, The Journal News [12/21/12]

UK Podiatrist Asked More Than 100 Patients to Strip

A foot doctor persuaded more than 100 patients to strip – even though there was no medical need for it, a hearing was told. Howard Price filmed women removing their underwear, walking naked on treadmills, and being massaged by him in their private areas.

The podiatrist told police they had all consented to it and he kept hours of video of them for his clinical records. But the footage unearthed had been spliced together with porn films and shots of Price pleasuring himself, the Health and Care Professions Council tribunal heard. Semi-retired Price, an orthopaedic podiatrist at University Hospital of South Manchester for 27 years, was arrested at his workplace in Cheadle after a woman gave 11 video cassettes to police.

Source: Metro News [12/20/12]

RE: Displaced MBA Implant (Neil Levin, DPM)
From: Darryl Burns, DPM

I had a similar patient, a 22 year old male who sprained his ankle, and the implant rotated 90 degrees. It blocked the motion of the STJ in a fixed varus position. He had an asymptomatic MBA implant in the other foot, both of approximtaely 15 years. Due to the pain, he elected to have the implant removed. In addition, he wanted the other implant removed at the same time.

The removal of the implant simply requires an incision over the sinus tarsi and with some blunt dissection, the implant will be easily identified. Using a 3.5 hex head screwdriver, it can be inserted into the implant and unscrewed. I followed up with orthotics that I use for PT tendon dysfunction. I  have a satisfied patient. There are some arthritic changes on the displaced implant side (noted on x-ray), but no clinical symptoms.
 
Darryl Burns, DPM, Monterey, CA, darrylburns@msn.com

RE: AOS Incompatibility Problem with Windows 8 (Elliot Udell, DPM)
From: Rich Rettig, DPM, Marc Katz, DPM

It is a shame that the developers are so lazy or behind the times or uncaring that they do not work ahead of time with the beta versions of new operating systems to have a product ready at the appropriate time, although I suspect they will fix the problem eventually. The solution is extremely simple though. The Internet is filled with refurbished computers preloaded with Windows 7 Pro or even Win XP Pro that are available very inexpensively. Just go to your favorite vendor (Amazon, eBay, Newegg, Tigerdirect) or simply Google what you are looking for. 

Rich Rettig, DPM, Philadelphia, PA, rettigdpm@gmail.com

I would get a Windows 7 Pro PC or notebook. Plenty are available.  Even XP is still around. They are available at TigerDirect.

Marc Katz, DPM, Tampa, FL, dr_mkatz@yahoo.com

RE: Definition of Diabetic (Charles Morelli, DPM)
From: Neil A Burrell, DPM

First of all, a diabetic is a person who should not be defined as a disease. This from a person with type 1 diabetes for 44 years. I also don't like words such as epileptic, alcoholic, etc. A person has diabetes if they have had two fasting blood sugars over 127. A lot of physicians are now using HgA1C over 6.0 as an indicator. If a person loses weight, they will no longer require medication. They are type 2. Not all people with diabetes require medicine. People with type 1 DO require insulin to survive, and therefore have to take it their entire life. I recommend referencing the American Diabetes Association guidelines for the diagnosis of diabetes and other information about diabetes. 

Neil A Burrell, DPM, Beaumont, TX, nburrell@gt.rr.com

RE: Policy for Handguns in a Podiatric Office (Frank Lattarulo, DPM)
From: Wm. Barry Turner, BSN, DPM

I have a license to carry a concealed weapon, and I try to always have my pistol or some sort of weapon on me. I work with my pistol in my pocket. Most of my patients have guns and many of them carry. I live in rural North Georgia. When I was in high school, during hunting season, every pickup truck in the parking lot had a rifle or shotgun hanging on a gun rack in the back window of the truck.

I carried my Boy Scout knife with me to school, and sometimes we would play mumbly peg throwing our knives into the ground and having to stretch to the knife-we did this at school, usually during lunch hour. Nobody in my school, during my term there, was ever...

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

RE: Efficacy of "Pain" Creams
From: Bryan C. Markinson, DPM

I feel compelled to comment on the discussion of the efficacy of topical compounded combinations of agents for indications of pain, neuropathy, skin rashes, etc. I have a different question besides efficacy. When I was in pharmacy school in the mid 70s, compounding pharmacy was already a "historical" subject. Although compounding principles were taught, it was already a thing of the past, and only a handful of physicians wrote for compounded formulas. I remember distinctly learning that the mixing of agents in different vehicles raised questions of solubility, compatibility, stability, and potency. I also remember that certain active agents have to be solubilized first before they are joined together in combination, and that creates other questions of what agent is soluble in water, or alcohol, or another medium.

I just wonder if the current purveyors of compounded pharmaceuticals are screened by anyone for adherence to compounding principles that allow these combinations to indeed be stable, potent, compatible, and remain in solution or suspension, whatever the case may be. Is it possible that all that is desired to be compounded may not be able to be made? Ordering up a jar of your favorite agents in combination is not as easy as you think. Perhaps one of the compounding pharmacy scientists can comment on this?

Bryan C. Markinson, DPM, NY, NY, Bryan.Markinson@mountsinai.org

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 - 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 - 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

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

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.

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.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,000 DPMs and Students

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