The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

May 29, 2010 #3,870 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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DC Podiatrist Discusses Recommended Flip-Flops

Summer is almost here, so it's time to break out those flip-flops. Some are good and some are bad. How do you tell the difference? We asked DC podiatrist Arnold Ravick for his recommendations. 

Dr. Arnold Ravick on News Channel 8

"Among some good flip-flops are Chaco. They have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which means that they have been looked at by podiatrists, and have been tested. They offer a lot of support, feature an arch support, and they don't bend," said Ravick.

Source: Let's Talk Live, News Channel 8, 5/20/10]

Scholl Dean Discusses Her New Position

Dr. Nancy Parsley, a 1993 graduate of the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine was named the new dean of her alma mater on April 21, 2010. Here's an excerpt from a recent interview:

Selbo: What is it like to become the dean of the college where you were once a student? What current research is going on at Scholl?

Dr. Nancy Parsley

Parsley: It is incredible. It’s a thrill. I consider it a significant privilege, but a significant responsibility ... I feel like it’s an opportunity to impact the future of the profession because the students are the future of the profession.

The research continues to be an area that is expanding and exploding. There is so much research going on at this particular point through our Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR) ... We have research that is diabetes-related research – with a focus on wound care – and we are also doing a lot of research right now that relates to gait.

Source: Colin Selby, Lake County Journal [5/19/10]

NY & PA Podiatrists Perform "Miracle" Foot Surgery in Nicaragua

Eight years ago, Dr. Charles Morelli took a trip that changed his life. It was a trip organized through his church, the Mamaroneck United Methodist Church, to Nicaragua. What started out as a mission to help the people of Nicaragua build schools, fix their homes, and a chance to treat some patients, has turned into a medical miracle for many.

Dr. Jeffrey Siegel (Left) and Dr. Charles Morelli (Right)

The group travels annually during President’s Week in February, and spends time in the village of Leon. Back in 2002, Dr. Morelli and his friend, Dr. Jeffrey Siegel from Philadelphia, approached HEODRA Hospital in Leon to see what kind of help was needed. According to Dr. Morelli, it was a slow process, but as the years have gone by, they have been able to see more patients and perform more complicated procedures.

Podiatry does not exist in Nicaragua, so the work of Dr. Morelli and Dr. Siegel is especially important, considering the number of people suffering from club foot. Most of the patients that the pair sees while in Leon are club foot patients, and they need rear foot reconstruction. They also treat patients who have mid and forefoot tumors, deformities from club foot, and more common issues like bunions.

Source: The New York Podiatrist [5/19/10]

Ask Employees the Right Question

Encourage staffers to share their concerns with you. Ask them “What difficulties are you having?” rather than “How’s it going?”

The first question is more likely to draw out information you need to know.

Source: Adapted from “Getting Better,” Brian Horn, Smart Business Chicago via Communication Briefings

Query: Medical Innovations Waste Machine

Is anyone using the Medical Innovations Waste Machine? If so, what has your experience been? Is it effective and cost-effective?

Bill Hineser, DPM, Arvada, CO

Query: Patient Access to EMR at Former Location 

A patient wanted to get a copy of her records from when I saw her when I was associated with another group (and different EMR). I have access to the previous EMR from my home computer only, and cannot print the chart notes. The management of the group has refused the patient's request because I still have access to the EMR (and they know that I cannot print records). Remember that this was the patient's request, not mine. She personally requested and signed papers for her records at the other group's office. So, what would you tell her to do now?

Richard Rees, DPM, Bellaire, TX

Editor’s comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. On February 18, 2010, the HIPAA HITECH Rules concerning patients' rights to electronic access to, and an electronic copy of, their health records went into effect. In the case where a provider has implemented an EHR system, the Act provides individuals with a right to obtain their PHI in an electronic format (i.e., ePHI). An individual can also designate that a third party be the recipient of the ePHI. The Act provides that only a fee equal to the labor cost can be charged for an electronic request.

If the management group fails to provide the ePHI, they are in violation of federal law. If they willfully withhold these records, they will be subject to significant monetary penalties.

Query: Phalangeal Osteotomy Denial

CPT 28310 (phalangeal osteotomy) repeatedly gets denied when billing for a bunion procedure. Is there any way that a bill can be submitted so that the Akin procedure can be paid for?

Charles Morelli, DPM, Mamaroneck, NY

Response: CPT provides a single code that accurately reflects the performance of both a bunionectomy and great toe phalangeal osteotomy. That would be CPT 28298 - correction, hallux valgus (bunion), with or without sesamoidectomy; by phalanx osteotomy.

Billing the phalangeal osteotomy as a separate code from a bunion procedure would be unbundling. The payer was correct in denying CPT 28310 when both the bunionectomy and phalangeal osteotomy should have been billed as CPT 28298.

If you billed CPT 28292 and CPT 28310 (performed on the same foot), you should submit a corrected claim for CPT 28298.

Tony Poggio, DPM, Alameda, CA

Codingline subscription information can be found at:
http://www.codingline.com/subscribe.htm

RE: Chaetomium Onychomycosis  (Robert P. Thiele, DPM)
From: Bob Kornfeld, DPM, David Zuckerman,  DPM

This is a good example of why one must look at the possible mechanisms of the infection rather than the identification of the organism and a "direct kill" approach. Chaetomium is a mold. It is an opportunistic organism and like all mold, thrives on carbohydrates. I would ask the patient to create a diet journal for you so you can assess the level of carbohydrate consumption in your patient. Needless to say, this is most likely where you will find a big contribution to the infection. We also find many patients who under-consume water have a difficult time eliminating these organisms from the GI tract (which, by the way, is where the infection originates).

Next, it is a good idea to assess the possibility of food sensitivities which serve as a strong misdirection to healthy immune system function. I can go on and on about possible causes of this infection (there are many other possibilities here), but it is beyond the space this forum allows. My experience has been that once you look at all possible causes and identify, in this patient, what might be going on that has enabled this infection, then you can create a protocol that rids the patient of the infection, while at the same time is promoting improved overall health. Drug therapy does not address causes, and therefore, does not put the patient on a healthier track. This is sound, personalized medicine. I am hosting a seminar here in NY on June 12 and 13th and this, among many other topics, will be covered in detail.
 
Bob Kornfeld, DPM, Manhasset, NY, holfoot153@aol.com

I have treated a few patients with K-laser (off-label use) who had a failed course of oral Lamisil and no resolution with topical anti-fungal (also off-label). Culture results were positive for T. Rubrum but still no improvement or resolution of fungal infection. Today, after three laser treatments, the patient has a clear toenail. It is my opinion that the laser was both anti-fungal and anti-microbial, and that might be the reason for the resolution.

Disclaimer: I am a consultant for K-laser.

David Zuckerman, DPM, Cherry Hill, NJ, footcare@comcast.net

RE: Return of a Deadbeat Patient (George Jacobson, DPM)
From: Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM

An issue not presently discussed concerning "dead-beat" patients is their non-payment of the deductible part of their insurance payment. In the case of Medicare, it is grossly illegal to "forgive" the deductible portion of their charge.

If you re-accept a patient with Medicare who has not paid the deductible, you could be charged with Medicare fraud. You are required by law to make every "reasonable" attempt to collect that fee.

Medicare does not look at this issue as "minor" or a matter of "mis-understanding." Before you accept patients in your practice who have refused to pay their deductibles, you should explain to them that it may be against the law for you to forgive that charge. In the case of some "Medicare mills", the Feds used this part of the statute to send doctors to jail.

Michael M. Rosenblatt, DPM, San Jose, CA, Rosey1@prodigy.net

RE: Replacement Motor for PDM Chair (Frank Lattarulo, DPM)
From: Steve Wolfington, DPM

You can get the motor rebuilt by a repair shop. 
 
Steve Wolfington, DPM, Sheboygan, WI, swolfing@hotmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION NORTH CAROLINA - ASHEVILLE/MOUNTAINS

Well established, multi-doctor, multi-office diverse practice has immediate need for associate doctor leading to partnership. Associate doctor will be very busy from day one. Attractive compensation and benefits. Buy-in potential after one year. Contact at smfc2@charterinternet.com or 828-734-1535

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Looking for podiatrists to join group to work in nursing facilities in: Texas (Ft. Worth, Dallas, Houston) Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Northwest Pennsylvania, Delaware, Upstate New York, Massachusetts (Brockton). Please respond to: doconcall02@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, on the ocean, fast growing area. Associate for multi-office, full-scope practice. Reply to dr.cole@shaw.ca or phone 250-516-7440

LIMB PRESERVATION RESEARCH AND SURGICAL FELLOWSHIP
 
Boston University Medical Center offers a unique fellowship position
Be part of this unique opportunity at a major internationally-known teaching medical center. During this time, he/she will become a knowledge expert who will contribute significantly to research, surgical procedures, teaching, and innovations in limb preservation and tissue repair. Requirements: Completion of a two or three year surgical residency; Annual Salary: Year 1 $61,000, Year 2 $66,000 plus excellent benefits. Submit a CV and letter of interest to: Erin Springhetti @ erin.springhetti@bmc.org and Dr Vickie Driver @ vickie.driver@bmc.org

CANADIAN PODIATRISTS COME BACK HOME!

An Edmonton, Alberta group of DPM’s requires an additional Podiatrist. Interest in biomechanics essential. Given Canadian visa restrictions, this position is open only to Canadian Citizens or permanent residents. Very attractive compensation package. Fax C.V. or letter of interest to: (780) 483-5796.

PODIATRISTS WANTED BALTIMORE/CHICAGO/NORTHWEST INDIANA

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 Jake Shimansky, Director of Physician Recruitment. Phone 773-342-5221 FAX 773-486-3548 E-Mail jshimansky@homephysicians.com www.homephysicians.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MINEOLA, NEW YORK

Full-time or Part-time associate position with future partnership potential available with busy multi-office practices on Long Island. Must be proficient in all phases of podiatry with emphasis on surgery, biomechanics and RFC. Minimum standards include either a three-year PSR, or board qualified/certified status with ABPS. Existing hospital privileges with a NY-based facility helpful. Interested doctors are encouraged to e-mail their CV to mets724@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – TEXAS

Full-time podiatrist(s) needed in Austin or San Antonio. Current Texas license required.  Unique mobile podiatry practice.  Better pay, fine working conditions with excellent support staff. Check out our website www.footmobile.com.  Reply to footcenter1@sbcglobal.net

PRACTICE FOR SALE – OHIO

Retiring. Completely equipped office $18,888. Reception room, Business office (Fax, typewriter, copy machine). 3 Tx rooms. paraffin, U.Sd., vascular analyzer, CLlA lab. Hydros, ultra-violets, galvasines, OR table, light, laser, nitrous, fluoroScan, Stryker. Private office (decorator furnished) with desk, credenza, couch, chairs. For complete inventory e-mail ohiofoot@aol.com or 330-501-1132.  Phil Davidson, DPM

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CONNECTICUT (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN) 
 
Great opportunity. Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Associate position leading to partnership. Well-established and progressive offices. Electronic medical records, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, nerve conduction studies, pinpoint and CO2 lasers, electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapies. Seeking a well-trained, personable, and highly motivated individual. Please send resume and current photo to dr.kassaris@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PRINCETON, NJ

Looking for a full-time associate in a very high volume 2-office practice in the Princeton area in routine/sports/pediatric/surgical podiatric care. Excellent opportunity for a hard-working, ethical, individual with good personal and clinical skills. Candidate needs minimum PSR 24-36, board qualified/certified, and an active NJ state license. Send résumé’s – princetonpodiatry@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - HUDSON VALLEY, NY

Great opportunity in a seven–doctor podiatry group! Multiple locations utilizing state-of-the-art modalities. A residency program is attached to our practice. Interviews will begin shortly for this special position. Please forward CV to: healthyfeet4ever@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SW FLORIDA, BEAUTIFUL GULF COAST AREA

Well-established podiatry practice with excellent mix office/surgery seeking full-time associate PSR 12-36. Excellent salary & benefits for the right hardworking, personable candidate. Email resume to pudos@aol.com or fax to 239-573-9201.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TAMPA BAY, FL

Associate needed for a dynamic practice in the Tampa Bay area. Preference given to a PSR 24+ training and must have a Florida license. Well-established practice, high-tech with specialties in sports medicine, surgery and wound care. No nursing homes or HMOs. E-mail: drcosentino@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND

IMMEDIATE Associate needed to join a multi-office podiatry practice in the Baltimore MD Region. Desired candidate should be surgically trained with Board Eligible/Certification. You must be hard-working, ethical, compassionate and confident in your abilities to deal with pathology, patients, staff and fellow physicians. Patient base is already established. Excellent income and growth potential for the right associate. Please forward a cover letter, resume, and surgical log (if a current resident) and availability to FootDocMaryland@Gmail.com

PART-TIME POSITION - NEW JERSEY 

Available for a Board certified/qualified podiatrist. Located in Toms River and Manchester. We have a high-volume practice that treats routine care, trauma, sports-related injuries, hospital consults, and ER Consults. Possibly leading to full-time position for the right person. Please fax CV to (732) 349-0228 or email CV to njfeet@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION- MONROE, MICHIGAN 

Excellent opportunity to join a modern, growing 3 doctor/2 office practice located in SE Michigan between Detroit and Toledo. Responsibilities will include a mix of surgery, office, hospital and nursing home/housecalls. Salary, bonus and benefits. Learn more about us at monpod.com. If you are a personable, reliable team player with solid skills and a patient first attitude please contact dr.hughes@comcast.net for more information.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL NEW JERSEY 

Podiatrist wanted to work established satellite office two days a week. Nursing Home and House Calls in the morning, full patient load in the afternoon. Must have good people skills, at least PSR-12 training. Call 732-770-0823 or fax CV 732-699-1901.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – TEXAS

Dynamic, growing practice in Dallas/Fort Worth area, seeking PSR 36 surgically trained, and/or Board Certified/Board Qualified Podiatrist. Excellent salary and benefits compensation package, for the right candidate, with partnership/buyout opportunity. Must have Texas license. Contact/Send resume to: jmh6122@yahoo.com

TN PRACTICE FOR SALE (SOUTH OF NASHVILLE)

Active, established practice with new equipment (digital x-ray, ultrasound, computer network, etc.). Great referral network with an excellent scope of practice. Turn-key operation with seamless transition. Grossed over $350K last year. Call 931-446-5724 or email mchad500@gmail.com for more information.

TRAUMA FELLOWSHIP - FOOT & ANKLE

Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, IA is currently accepting applications for its 12 month trauma surgery fellowship beginning August 1, 2010. Fellowship to include advanced techniques in all foot and ankle surgery with an emphasis on lower extremity trauma, reconstruction & total joint replacement. Residency training required. Competitive salary and benefits. Please submit a letter of interest, CV, and 3 letters of recommendation to: Ben Olsen, DPM, Director: Foot and Ankle Trauma Fellowship, Broadlawns Medical Center, 1801 Hickman Road Des Moines, IA 50314, 515-282-7927, bolsen@broadlawns.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NAPLES, FLORIDA

Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office, multi-doctor practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. We rotate for ER call at all 4 hospitals. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner OK. Salary and percentage based on skills and experience, benefits including 401K. Current Florida license a plus. This a wonderful world class community. Fax CV to (239)566-8778 or Email CV to Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - MINNESOTA

Practice Grossing over $500K yearly. Good mix of surgery, orthotics, DME, diabetic care, general podiatry. Commute < 5 miles to work. Friendly Midwest lakes area with arts, good schools, affordable living, restaurants, shopping. Option to purchase building. Will consider associate to buy-in/ buy-out. Midwestpractice@gmail.com

PRACTICE TO LEASE – MANHATTAN 

Active practice available to lease. No upfront payment required. Heart of Midtown Manhattan. (212) 247-5148

ASSOCIATE POSITION -  WESTERN PHILADELPHIA SUBURBS

GREAT OPPORTUNITY, 4-doctor practice with 2 locations has a full time
position available. Must be ABPS qualified or certified. PSR-36 preferred. Looking for hard working, well-rounded, personable individual interested in all aspects of podiatry, including wound care, surgery and limb salvage. Please respond to pod1593@gmail.com

1 YEAR PODIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP - MONROVIA, CALIFORNIA

Applicants must have completed a podiatric residency program and must have or be eligible for a California license. Annual stipend: $48,000 and $60,000. If interested, please e-mail your resume with cover letter to the Program's management company at victoriamanagers@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - TENNESSEE

Established 30-year full-scope podiatry practice. Excellent hospital and surgery center privileges with investment opportunities. Fully equipped 2200 sq.ft. office across from hospital. High volume of new patients, DME, and local referral base. Great community for a family and the outdoorsman. Reply to tnfootdr@gmail.com

PRACTICE & BUILDING FOR SALE - MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Two locations each with 3 exam rooms, x-ray room, large waiting room, and ample parking. Excellent locations and growth potential. All equipment and furniture included. Website and marketing material included. Seller happy to assist with transition. Grossed 350K last year, priced to sell with financing available 200k. Call 931-446-5724.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,000 DPM's 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 12,000 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. 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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