The Voice of Podiatrists

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December 30, 2008 #3,437 Editor-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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VA Podiatrist Offers Medically-Supervised Pedicures

The podiatry office of Dr. Mitchell Waskin, whose practice normally runs to treating ailments such as diabetes-related foot problems, sprains, hammertoes, or running-related plantar fasciitis, has started offering what he refers to as medical pedicures. In a room set apart from the podiatry practice, clients can get a manicure or pedicure by licensed nail technicians like JoElla Hardee, who work under Waskin's supervision.

Dr. Mitchell Waskin

Medically-supervised pedicures are not new, and some have questioned whether they are just a marketing gimmick. Waskin counters that there is reason for consumers to take notice of salon sanitation and that some customers in particular should be concerned. "It applies to just about everyone," but especially to those with medical conditions, "especially people that are immunocompromised, such as people with diabetes, people on chemotherapy," Waskin said. "It really applies to anyone who is just in need of going to a facility to get a manicure or pedicure and [feeling] confident they are not going to potentially get an infection from it."

Source: Tammie Smith, Richmond Times-Dispatch [12/27/08]

AK Podiatrist (and New Husband) Enter Ice Competition

Around this time last year, Jennifer Jansma and Eric Shumar were strangers, sawing away at blocks of ice in Town Square Park as competitors in the city's ice-carving contest. Then one day, Jansma peeked around her sculpture of R2D2 and locked eyes with Shumar. Even though it was cold outside, Shumar said, "sparks flew." They actually spoke to each other later on, at a bonfire. And by July, they were married.

Dr. Jennifer Jansma

This year, instead of competing, they make up one of six ice-carving teams this year in the city's annual Crystal Gallery of Ice competition. This year's theme is the 50th anniversary of statehood. On Saturday afternoon, as temperatures hovered in the teens, Jansma was busy carving out details in half a dozen ice salmon to be part of a sculptural tribute to "the importance of fish in Alaska," as Shumar described it. Jansma, a podiatrist by trade, is new to carving. This is only her second sculpture. She got into it because of a patient, she said. She likes ice as a medium for art. "It's alive," she said. "It changes after it's made. You watch it change for months."

Source: Julia O'Malley, Anchorage Daily News (AK) [12/28/08]

RE: 3-Layer Unna Boot

After many years of applying a conventional Unna boot in three layers - Medicopaste, padding, compression, I am aware there are products available that apply all three layers at once. Although I presume these materials may cost more, it would be nice to save the time involved in application and increase the comfort to the patient. If any of you utilize this type of product, I would like to know which one, where to order it, and your experience with it.

Jane Graebner, DPM, Delaware, OH

RE: New Regs Require Hydrogels to be Sterile
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM

In early November 2008, CMS began issuing its annual update of HCPCS coding with the release of an entire new section of HCPCS codes for Skin Substitutes (See Jan '09 Podiatry Management). The entire listing of HCPCS codes was released on December 16, 2008.

Many of the codes receiving significant changes to their definition are those surgical dressings, now having a “sterility” requirement as part of their HCPCS coding definition. These surgical dressings did not require the “sterility” to receive their FDA approval, or previously to be considered for reimbursement under the current DME MAC’s surgical dressings LCD. Many had undergone many multi-center ,double-blind studies to prove their effectiveness.

Changes apparently were initiated by the CMS HCPCS Workgroup, a division of CMS’ Center for Medicare Management, in conjunction with the PDAC (successor to SADMERC). This was done without input from manufacturers, wound care specialists or other provider organizations. All these requirements are effective January 1, 2009 without the ability of any comment or appeal period.

Paul Kesselman, DPM, Woodside, NY, pkesselman@pol.net

Editor's note: The complete text of this extended-length note can be read at: http://www.podiatrym.com/letters2.cfm?id=23815&start=1

RE: Robert Schulze, DPM

Dr. Robert Schulze of Redlands, CA passed away on December 12, after a year-long battle with leukemia. He will be sorely missed by his three children, Robin, Bob and Polly, as well as the community of Redlands, California, in which he practiced for four decades.

David Rizzo, DPM, Torrance, CA

RE: It’s a "Hole" Different Specialty

An elderly patient recently said that he has a friend who is a doctor too. His specialty: "He's a rectumologist"!

At this time of year, when we reflect on what we have to be thankful for, maybe being a podiatrist isn't such a bad thing. Although you can't help but wonder if rectumologists do a lot better financially.

Tom Silver, DPM, Minneapolis, MN

ASSOCIATE POSITION WANTED - GEORGIA,TENNEESSEE OR ALABAMA

I am looking for an opportunity to be a full-time associate with a well-established podiatric facility; I have worked in a private office setting for four years with surgical privileges at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital and Windy Hill Hospital and Banks Jackson Commerce Hospital. 312-752-7713 E-mail, rico_t16@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CHICAGO AREA

Join one of the most successful, long-established podiatry practices in the Chicago area, with excellent salary and benefits. We have an immediate opening for part-time podiatrist in a multi practice location in Chicago. Must have two years of surgical residency. Please e-mail resume to f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION -SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

I’m looking for podiatrist who wants additional practice hours. Perfect for combining your own practice with an additional income. Must be on Aetna Insurance, Horizon Blue Shield, Medicare, and most commercial carriers. I am looking for someone who has a desire to learn how a very successful practice is run, so that I will be able to have time away from my practice. The payscale is based on straight Commission. Could lead to partnership or sale. E-mail contact information, CV, and why you would be perfect for this opportunity. Contact foot.care@verizon.net

PODIATRISTS NEEDED CHICAGO -- NW IND & BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON, DC

Home Physicians, a medical group specializing in house calls is looking to hire podiatrists in Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and Baltimore, MD. Full and part-time positions are available. Competitive Compensation including malpractice. Contact Scott Schneider. Phone-773-342-4201 FAX 773-486-3548-E-Mail sschneider@homephysicians.com Visit our website

ASSOCIATE POSITION WANTED – MA, CENTRAL FL, or SEATTLE, WA

Graduating resident in June 2009 with superior people skill & work ethic and diverse PM&S-36 surgical training. Seeking for an employment as an associate. Preference to Massachusetts state, central Florida or Seattle. Khanhmei Wong, DPM. 617-640-1107 or pager 774-299-1943.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – CINCINNATI, OHIO

This is your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join one of the most successful practices in the United States. No seniority system. If you are motivated and have completed a PSR24-36 residency, your income is limited only by your enthusiasm and desire to achieve. Fax resume, including photo, to: 513-577-7261 or E-mail resume to Kroesch4poh@aol.com

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