The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,000 Podiatrists Daily

December 28, 2012 #4,650 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Wounds That Persist or Won't Heal Need to be Biopsied: FL Podiatrist

Lesions that persist or won’t heal should be biopsied. Corns, calluses, and warts are common skin issues that podiatrists see. These issues often cause people discomfort that leads them to seek relief. According  to podiatrist Dr. David Raynor, "Wounds that do not heal in a reasonable fashion, that should with the prescribed treatment, or those that appear different or act differently than one would expect should be biopsied."

Dr. David Raynor

"A biopsy of tissue usually can be performed in the office setting and only requires a small amount of local anesthesia. A small 3-mm to 4-mm punch is used to obtain a full-thickness sample of the lesion or wound for the pathologist to study. The wound is often just cauterized and infrequently requires a suture," says Raynor.

Source: Citrus County Chronicle [12/25/12]

New Zealand Podiatrist Continues 40-Year Christmas Lunch Tradition

For the past 40 years, Te Aro resident Geoffrey Trethewey has served Christmas lunch to those who had nowhere else to go. The former podiatrist arrived at the Aro Valley Community Centre about 8:30am for the Room at the Inn annual Christmas lunch. For four hours, he helped prepare 300 plates of chicken, ham, and all the trimmings, half of which were delivered to people unable to leave their homes.

Geoffrey Trethewey (center) Serves Christmas Lunch

Trethewey hardly remembers the first time he volunteered - a friend asked him to come along, so he did. And after seeing the joy and gratification on the faces of the guests, it became his Christmas tradition. "I enjoy it. I know a lot of people who come here."

Source: Sophie Speer. Fairfax, NZ News [12/26/12]

APMWA Announces 27th Annual Student Writing Competition  

The American Podiatric Medical Writers Association has announced its 27th Annual Student Writing Competition. 

• All papers MUST be non-technical in nature. Appropriate subjects include practice management, ethics, law, education, or any topic that would be suitable for a lay publication.
  
   
• There is no word limitation. Papers will be graded for content, style, grammar, neatness, and overall impact.
  
   
• First prize will be one thousand dollars ($1,000), sponsored by an APMA Educational Foundation endowment from Dr. and Mrs. Steven Berlin, and recognition in the APMA NEWS and the APMWA Newsletter. Honorable Mention Certificates may also be awarded.
  
   
• This competition is open to ANY enrolled podiatric student.
  
   
• Entries must be received by 4/15/13 via e-mail at bblock@podiatrym.com
  
   
• Entries become the property of APMWA, which may arrange publication of the entry.

MD Podiatrist Joins Wound & Hyperbaric Center

Kevin Thomas, DPM, has been granted clinical privileges in the Department of Surgery, Division of Podiatry at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury. Thomas is board-certified in podiatry. He is joining the Peninsula Wound & Hyperbaric Center at Peninsula Regional, and also has offices in Berlin and Salisbury, MD.

Source: Ocean City Dispatch [12/21/12]

Write Clearer eMails

Use the BLUF strategy: Put the Bottom Line Up Front. In the first couple of sentences, answer any questions thoroughly, ask the question you need answered or briefly state what the email is about. Then provide only essential details, preferably in a bulleted list.

Source: Adapted from “What Makes Emails Ineffective, and Even Insulting,” Dave Johnson, CBS MoneyWatch via Communication Briefings [January 2013]

RE: A Fraternal New Year
From: Jack A. Reingold, DPM

I have been a daily reader of PM News since its inception. I read it for the tips that help me treat my patients, the tips that help me run the practice, and for the humorous stories that we can all relate to. I also like that it is a place where I can seek answers to questions. Over the last few years, I have seen more "political comments," pertaining to things from taxes to gun control. I have read personal attacks on each other for our views on choice of treatment plans. What we have is special, a small group of brothers and sisters who go to work every day to make a difference. I wanted to be a podiatrist since I was 5 because my family knew podiatrists, and they were always wonderful people.

The world has gotten darker. The Middle East, Afghanistan, economic downturns, and more. However, we do not have to become darker. So, in the upcoming year, perhaps we can support each other with tips on how to take better care of our patients and our families. Happy Holidays!

Jack A. Reingold, DPM, Solana Beach, CA, footdoc@san.rr.com

RE: Strapping Denial When Injection Given (Michael Forman, DPM)
From: Ira Baum, DPM

How many times has this issue been discussed? Insurance companies know very well that strapping is not a dressing. So what? Many treatments provided are bundled. For all practical purposes, it appears there is nothing that can be done. Unfortunately, I know podiatrists who inject steroids for plantar fasciitis, treating the pain and inflammation, but don’t address the mechanics of the foot, because strapping is not covered.

This represents treatment dictated by insurance companies. Sure we can always charge the patients for the strapping, but let’s be practical, most are not going to pay. As for the real issue, what is our national association doing about this issue? I have been a member of the APMA for more years than I want to say, and frankly well...

Ira Baum, DPM, Miami, FL, ibaumdpm@bellsouth.net

Editor's Note: This is NOT an extended letter. 

RE: Efficacy of Compounded Drugs
From: Jay Wenig, DPM

Several years ago, the FDA was going to ban all compounding. At the last minute, they did not. In recollecting my time as a retail pharmacist and the little time I spent as an inpatient pharmacist while in school, I can really find no application for compounding at this time.

Most of the things I have made have been "prescription cosmetics." An insurance plan won't pay for Aquaphor for dry skin so a doctor writes an RX for 30 grams of hydrocortisone 2.5% to be added to a pound (480 grams) of Aquaphor. Is anybody out there doing this? When I was in school many years ago, and I graduated pharmacy school in 1976, the correct way to make this would be to put 30 grams of hydrocortisone into a...

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

RE: Policy for Handguns in a Podiatric Office (Robert Steinberg, DPM)
From: Dan Michaels, DPM, MS, Burton J. Katzen, DPM

In regard to Steinberg's post, a pistol packing Pete could do the same thing in the same amount of time. A glock with multiple magazines could replicate this terrible act. We need to secure our schools and arm teachers to prevent this from happening again. Banning anything shows a true lack of insight, logic, and reason.

Dan Michaels, DPM, MS, Hagerstown/Frederick MD, drmichaels@rfainstitute.com

I am a long time member of the NRA, a multiple gun owner, and I practice in what would be considered a high crime area. I have had two 9 mm Glocks held to my head during a robbery. To the doctor who feels the need to carry a loaded weapon in his pocket during office hours, let me say that either you need to move your office or you're getting some really bad bunion results.

There is a big, big difference between owning a gun and knowing how to use a gun, especially under pressure. Unless you are military or police-trained, the odds are that YOU WILL LOSE, and so will your loved ones. I usually arrive at my office when it is still dark, and one trick is to always be aware of your surroundings when entering or leaving. I also do not have evening hours. The only real protection for an untrained handgun individual is a shotgun, and unless you want to empty your waiting room and blow out half of your medical building, I certainly would not advocate a 12 gauge in your office.  I was not held up in my office, but in my home in Potomac, Maryland, one of the wealthiest communities in the country. It just goes to show you. You never know.
 
Burton J. Katzen, DPM, Temple Hills, MD, DrburtonK@aol.com

Editor's note: This topic is now closed.

RE: Rising Patient Deductibles Spell Trouble for Doctors
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
 
There is another serious  problem with very large insurance deductibles and the outcome might not be doing society a favor. The only policy that I could buy for my staff and myself has a two thousand dollar deductible for procedures. This 2K figure seems to be becoming more and more common in the insurance industry. Will people put off potentially life-saving  diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopies, endoscopies, or biopsies because they cannot afford the two thousand dollars they will have to pay out-of-pocket?
 
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY, Elliotu@aol.com

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

PRACTICE PRICED TO SELL OR ASSOCIATE POSITION - 20 MINS NORTH OF BOSTON MA

Well-established practice & beautiful modern 3500sqft office & equipment in great location. X-ray, EMR, ultrasound. Well-rounded practice was grossing over 600K. Strong emphasis on surgery & sports medicine. Selling price is at substantially reduced cost. Send CV or interest in buying practice to footguru@cox.net

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 – 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

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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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

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.

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.

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.

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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