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PM News |
The Voice of Podiatrists
Serving Over 15,709 Podiatrists Daily
November 21, 2013 #4,921 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
A partner of Podiatry Management http://www.podiatrym.com E-mail us by hitting the reply key. COPYRIGHT 2013- No part of PM News can be reproduced without the written permission of Barry Block
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APMA NEWS - PART 1 |
APMA Executive Director and CEO Announces Retirement Plans
Glenn B. Gastwirth, DPM, a fixture of the APMA staff since 1986 and executive director for 16 years, has announced his plans to retire in May 2015. Dr. Gastwirth’s long service to the profession and its association have made him, for many podiatrists, legislators, and other health-care professionals, the face of podiatric medicine.
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Dr. Glenn Gastwirth |
Dr. Gastwirth graduated from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at the Civic-Kern Hospital. He served as president of the Michigan Podiatric Medical Association and an alternate and delegate to the APMA House of Delegates. He ultimately gave up his practice and joined APMA's staff. Twenty-seven years later, he has served as director of Scientific Affairs, deputy executive director for Health Policy, and—since 1997—executive director. In 2005, he was elected to the PM Podiatry Hall of Fame.
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PM NEWS QUICK POLL |
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INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
Canadian Podiatrist Receives DSC from FIP
Dr. Robert Chelin was presented with the Distinguished Service Award from the International Federation of Podiatrists/Federation Internationale des Podologues (FIP) at its most recent meeting in Rome. He is a past president of both the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) and the FIP.
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Dr. Robert Chelin |
Dr. Chelin, who has been practicing podiatric medicine in Toronto, Ontario, Canada for 31 years, was chosen by the FIP as the 2013 recipient for his selfless dedication and generosity within the field of podiatry.
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HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS |
WI Podiatrist Joins Aurora Health Center
Aurora Health Center in Fond du Lac has added Dr. Thurmond Lanier to its team of medical professionals. Lanier is a podiatrist. A native of South Carolina, Lanier and his family have relocated to Fond du Lac. He completed his medical training at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, WA, where his training was focused on reconstructive surgical techniques and trauma.
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Dr. Thurmond Lanier |
Lanier focuses on general podiatric medicine and surgery with an emphasis on reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Special procedures provided include Charcot and flatfoot reconstruction, plantar fasciitis treatment, arthroscopic surgery, and total ankle replacement. He offers educational talks to local employers and groups on all aspects of foot and ankle care and foot and ankle surgery.
Source: FDL Reporter [11/19/13]
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APMA IN THE NEWS - PART 2 |
Proper Footwear Can Prevent Falls: APMA President
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2010, 2.3 million fall injuries sent older folks to emergency rooms, 662,000 required hospitalizations, and falls cost $30 billion in direct medical costs, the CDC says.
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Dr. Matthew Garoufalis |
“Preventing falls among older Americans is a top health priority, and improved balance can help reduce the risk of a fall,” says Dr. Matthew Garoufalis, a podiatrist and president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). “Proper footwear can help improve balance, especially in older people who may struggle with mobility and balance issues.”
Source: Scoop (San Diego) [11/18/13]
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PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR |
Proper Footwear Helps Feet Survive Holiday Shopping: PA Podiatrist
Plymouth Meeting podiatrist Dr. Nicholas Pagano dubbed Disney World the “the equivalent of the Thunderdome for your feet.” The same might be said of local malls and department stores at this time of year. And with Black Friday rapidly approaching, the good doctor has a few tips for overly ambitious holiday shoppers.
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Dr. Nicholas Pagano |
“It’s extremely important to match footwear with function,” advises Pagano, a board-certified surgeon who tends to all kinds of aches and pains at Barking Dogs Foot and Ankle Care. “Many of us lead fairly sedentary lives but think we can spend six hours walking the mall without any problems. Wearing the correct shoes is key … good, supportive sneakers, for example, or well-made shoes that are designed for walking."
Source: M. English, Montgomery Newspapers [11/19/13]
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QUERIES (MEDICAL/LEGAL) |
Query: Making a Referral Outside Our Scope of Practice
Today, a patient asked if I knew of a surgeon who can address four inguinal hernias. I gave him the name of a general surgeon in the area. When this type of referral is made, do we as podiatrists have to document it, and are we responsible for it since the evaluation and treatment is way out of our scope? There is a fine line of difference between making a referral to an endocrinologist or vascular surgeon when there is pedal impact vs. a patient asking to be referred to a doctor whose specialty has nothing to do with the lower extremity.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (APMA NEWS) |
RE: APMA Executive Director to Retire
From: David G. Armstrong, DPM, MD, PhD
Like everyone else, I received the note today regarding Dr. Gastwirth's retirement. I must say that he is such a fixture in our greater "family" that I expected him to simply continue on ad infinitum.
Glenn, I should think, has been more responsible than anyone in guiding podiatric medicine from a "profession" into a "specialty". He is a great and good man, and we are the beneficiaries of his great, good, and often silent works. I can only hope that he is able to sit back and enjoy the fruits of his labor. Thanks, Dr. G.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (ICD-10)- PART 1A |
From: Pam Thompson
ICD-10 has adverse financial consequences well beyond those concerned with preparation for the transition. A Canadian hospital study of ICD-10 implementation reported physician productivity losses of 50% in the first month. A year later, the loss continues at 19%. It is unlikely that the change-over in the U.S. will fare much better.
Anticipation of claims processing interruptions, coding errors, and other heretofore unknown issues, are estimated to result in at least 5 percent physician income loss, and up to a 30 percent short-term cash flow loss. Of course, income loss is money...
Editor's note: Ms. Thompson's extended-length letter can be read here.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (ICD-10) - PART 1B |
From: Michael L. Brody, DPM
At this point, I believe that it is important to point out that this 'extra work' in documenting the findings and determining the correct ICD-10 code only needs to be done when you are adding a new ICD-10 code to a patient's problem list.
Yes, it will be very time-consuming when we first have to convert to ICD-10 and 'update' all of our patients' charts. But once we have documented our findings to substantiate the correct ICD-10 code, we do not have to...
Editor's note: Dr. Brody's extended-length letter can be read here.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) |
From: Steven J. Kaniadakis, DPM
A U.S. Senator stated it perfectly in a debate to remove "Medicare Advantage". He said about three years ago, "It's neither an Advantage nor is it Medicare." I say that my mother had it, and it was a bad deal. The day after Romney nominated his V.P, Ryan, he stated that he wanted to reinstate the "Medicare Advantage" program. So, it is evidently a bargaining chip for both Republicans and Democrats. Patients seemed to be fooled by the name, thinking it is Medicare, not a plan managed by another managed care organization out of the straight Medicare program.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (STAFF ISSUES) - PART 1 |
From: Cindy Pezza, PMAC
Dr. Ressler, I commend you for recognizing your retiring back office assistant as an "asset to your office." In my encounters with practices of all ages and sizes, success (and lack there of) always seems to stem from one common denominator - staff. There is no formal training for podiatric assistants, and so I recommend "going with your gut" and finding a person who has exceptional people skills as well as the potential to learn and grow with your practice. These qualities may be found in a trained medical assistant from your local community college or better yet, found in the person who serves up your "half skinny grande latte" at the local Starbucks!
When it comes to people skills and multi-tasking in a way that keeps your "customers" happy and the bottom line increasing, there is no better place to look than high volume, quality franchises that serve just about everything with a smile. I wish you well in your search and remember to hire slowly and...you know the rest!
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Post Graduate Fellowships
University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio
Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery - This fellowship is a one-year experience during which the Fellow will develop a rational approach to revisional and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. The Fellow will function as an Instructor / Clinical and participate in the teaching of Podiatric medical students and residents, and have ample opportunity to be involved in clinical and basic research projects. The fellowship will provide the Podiatric Surgeon, further expertise in Charcot reconstruction, trauma and deformity correction.
Duration: 1 year (7/1/14 – 6/30/15) Application Deadline: 12/01/2013 Interviews: TBD Stipend: $44,100/Year. Requirements: Completion of 3-year residency; a commitment to a part-time/full-time academic career in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. Texas License eligible & ABPS Board Qualification eligible in Foot and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery (Test dates & Application Deadlines TBA).
Submit a CV and letter of interest to: Thomas Zgonis, DPM, FACFAS, Associate Professor, Fellowship Director, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio 7703 Floyd Curl Drive (MSC 7776) San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900 Email: Zgonis@uthscsa.edu Phone: (210) 567-5174 Fax: (210)567-4891.
All faculty appointments are designated as security sensitive positions.
University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (STAFF ISSUES) - PART 2 |
From: Pearl Herman
Patients are aware of the fact that doctors are professionals and that they do not need “tips” to live as do waiters. In fact, most patients are under the impression that doctors make a “ton” of money and do not think or feel that those Drs. are in need of those petty cash gifts. Do not look at the tips from patients as derogatory, but rather as a sign of appreciation for your dedication and professional service.
Patients feel good showing appreciation for the services they received, the doctor should feel good about being appreciated, and the staff members (even though they receive a steady salary) – like to feel appreciated! Accepting gifts/tips helps build relationships between the staff and the patients. We are all humans and like to show appreciation and be appreciated. I feel it is disgraceful to turn back a gift from a patient. Be professional and courteous and accept the gift/tip.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBABACARE) |
From: David P. Luongo, DPM
Here's yet another example how somehow the insurance companies are profiting from all of this when the goal was to shift it to the patients in need. This is an age old ploy used by HMOs to prevent holders from actually using benefits. Why give patients many choices, when you can get away with limiting them? The patients are less likely to use the benefit, increasing the bottom line to the shareholders. Let's not be quick to blame the president when the real culprits hide contentedly in the weeds. Think about it, if these plans were available to all doctors and paid like Medicare, both patient and doctor would benefit. The idea of insuring millions without insurance would then be a noble one that would make the president look good, not the villain he is made to look like.
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Full-Time Clinical Position - NYCPM
The New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM) is seeking DPM applicants for a full-time (four days totaling 32 clock hours per week) position within its Department of Medical Sciences. Applicants must be 24- or 36-month residency trained, and be ABPM and/or ABPS qualified/certified. Evidence of prior research experience or medical publication will add to the strength of one’s application. Diabetic/Charcot foot and wound care experience will also favor the respondent. Applicants must also be comfortable working in a chairside environment as well as supervising the care of podiatric inpatients. The position is heavily geared toward the dermatological, neurological, infectious diseases and vascular aspects of pedal disease, with podiatric surgery playing a lesser role.
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL) - PART 2 |
RE: Kudos to These Companies
From: Larry Kosova, DPM
My server's motherboard went bad and the office was left without digital x-rays, charts, billing, scheduler, etc. During the process of getting a new server and getting it set up, I contacted some companies that dropped everything they were doing and got right into action. These companies have given me excellent service and customer support for over 12 years, but this was the first time something like this has happened. They are all supporters of podiatry.
Many thanks to: Textalkmd charting and billing, Eppointmentsplus, and Sigma digital x-ray.
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 1
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) |
It's so sad to hear of the passing of Dr. John Marlette. He was a wonderful man and a long-time member of our North Central PA division. He volunteered to fill in for my predecessor Dr. Harold Kaiser in State College, PA, when he had heart problems. We will miss John!
Thomas Mollo, DPM, State College, PA
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MEETING NOTICES - PART 2
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CLASSIFIED ADS |
PRACTICE FOR SALE – SOUTHWEST QUEENS, NEW YORK
Busy, well established , fully equipped , newly redecorated office in good neighborhood. Grossing approximately $500k. Doctor relocating, but will stay on through July. Contact dfoot35@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - CONNECTICUT
Well-established, 35-year-old reputable practice/condo with approx 2,500 Square ft. Grossing approximately $450,000. Outside Hartford area. All phases of podiatry. Contact drsch52@hotmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
60 year old practice currently operating only 16 hours per week. Plenty of room for growth. Stable lease. Grossing 100k priced for quick sale at 65k. Three complete treatment rooms plus O.R. staff in place. Turn-key operation. Respond to footman007@aol.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET
Padnet vascular testing machine with updated security software (purchased in 2012). Perfect condition only used for training. We do not have the patient population to provide this valuable diagnostic tool. Purchased for 20K, asking 12K (and we will pay for shipping costs). Please contact vcrismali@gmail.com
FOR SALE - STORZ ERGO ELECTRIC SAGITTAL SAW HANDPIECE AND CHUCK
Storz Ergo Electric Sagittal Saw Handpiece and Chuck, also 1 power cord for same set In Excellent Condition $1200 for Handpiece $1000 for power-cord Separate or together-buyer pays for postage & insurance Pictures available Contact podassociate@aol.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – USED PINPOINTE LASER AND 2 USED Q-CLEAR LASERS
Used Pinpointe Laser for Sale! $17,500. 2 Used Q-Clear Lasers for sale $9,000 each. Please call 202-255-6236 or email: cosmedresources@verizon.net
ASSOCIATE POSITION – CONNECTICUT (HARTFORD AREA)
Available immediately. Looking for a Board Certified Surgeon with strong RF and ankle skills. This 20 year established practice offers EHR, digital x-ray and Noveon laser. All dues, malpractice and health insurance paid as well as 401K available. Excellent compensation. email lynnleblanc@cox.net
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS
Part-time podiatrist wanted for Franklin Park, IL office to begin December 2013. Please contact Dr. Ballard at 630-307-7463 and fax vitae to 630-529-0087 to apply.
HOUSE CALL DOCTORS WANTED - NYC
A well-established practice with an elaborate house call service is seeking responsible, ethical and compassionate doctors to treat patients in Manhattan, Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn. Create your own schedule, full support, excellent compensation. Send CV to WPerez1000@aol.com or call Dr. Perez 917-757-1921 for more information.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA
Associate wanted for well-established practice in central Florida. Experienced support staff, malpractice coverage and health insurance provided. Excellent opportunity for a promising future. To apply please go to www.yourcareerinpodiatry.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND
Seeking highly motivated, ethical, enthusiastic associate to join successful, well-established practice located in close proximity to Maryland and Delaware beaches. Certified/qualified by ABPS with rearfoot experience preferred. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care, sports medicine and general podiatry. Fully equipped office with diagnostic ultrasound, fluoroscopy, vascular testing, radio frequency ablation, six treatment rooms and three satellite offices. Main office has accredited ambulatory surgery center. This opportunity has excellent salary potential with benefits for the right individual. Send CV to: dpmkthomas@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE POSITION – DALLAS/FT WORTH, TX
Dynamic, busy practice in Dallas/Fort Worth area, seeking surgically trained, Board Certified/Board Qualified podiatrist, PSR-36 preferred. Excellent salary and benefits compensation package, for the right candidate, who is motivated to work hard. Contact/Send resume to: jmh6122@yahoo.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT (GREENWICH, 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 – BROOKLYN
Podiatrist needed for busy Brooklyn practice. Must be at least Board Qualified. Surgical background, personable and able to travel to different offices in Brooklyn. Part-time to start, with the potential for full time and partnership. Please email CV to evangbreth@gmail.com or fax to 718-840-0653.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ARKANSAS
Ethical, highly motivated, enthusiastic associate needed to join successful, well-established practice located in Northwest Arkansas. Certified/qualified by ABPS with rearfoot training preferred. The practice has an excellent working relationship with a high referral base from local PCPs and other specialists. Well-rounded practice incorporates general podiatry, surgery, wound care, and sports medicine. Salary plus excellent bonus potential for the right individual. Send CV to: footdocmanager@yahoo.com.
PART-TIME ASSOCIATE POSITION – CHICAGO, IL
part-time opportunity in Chicago to provide treatment to homebound patients. You can create your schedule- logistical support provided. Reimbursement is 40% of collection. If interested, please call 312-375-6430.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO
Join an established group practice in Dayton, Ohio excellent reputation, large referral base. Base Salary$120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR;diagnostic ultrasound; Padnet; CO2 and Cutera Laser for nails, all aspects of DME. We need well trained personable PSR24/36 surgeon. Future Buy-in available. Please send CV to: Ohiomedical@aol.com
PODIATRIST WANTED - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Podiatrist for practice in long-term care facilities. Facilities include Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living and Board and Care homes. Professionally managed. Email interest and CV to: ZbubblesZ@aol.com
DIABETES MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP - CENTRAL KENTUCKY
CVs and letters of interest are being accepted now for the most unique and well-rounded fellowship in podiatric medicine. This non-accredited, 1-year fellowship starts in July of 2014 and offers a wide variety of training opportunities that focus on diabetes, including diverse pathologies and unique medical and surgical opportunities. Regular surgical case load, intensive practice management, and the best prep for real world practice. Work with our on-staff certified orthotist, physical therapist, shoe store staff, MRI director, etc. Generous stipend, benefits, and free housing. Learn more at www.myhappyfoot.com (click the Fellowship Tab). Send CVs to jmoore@aappm.org.
LOOKING TO PURCHASE A PRACTICE IN PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL
Obamacare!? Looking to get out...or stay? I am looking to purchase a practice in Palm Beach County, FL. Contact Ian S. Goldbaum DPM at (561) 702-5637.
PM News Classified Ads Reach over 15,500 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 15,500 DPMs. for details, click here or write to:bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $119 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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Disclaimers |
Acceptance and publication by this newsletter of an advertisement, news story, or letter does not imply endorsement or approval by Barry Block or Kane Communications of the company, product, content or ideas expressed in this newsletter. Podiatric Medical News does not represent the views, and is a separate entity from Podiatry Management® Magazine and Podiatry Management® Online. Any information pertaining to legal matters should not be considered to be legal advice, which can only be obtained via individual consultation with an attorney. Information about Medicare billing should be confirmed with your State CAC.
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR
ENTITY TO WHICH IT IS ADDRESSED AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS
PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE.
If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an
employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the
intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination,
distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly
prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please
immediately notify me and you are hereby instructed to delete all
electronic copies and destroy all printed copies.
DISCLAIMER: Internet communications cannot be guaranteed to be
either timely or free of viruses.
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