The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,000 Podiatrists Daily

May 27, 2010 #3,868 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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CA Podiatrist Discusses Summer Foot Problems

Warm weather and the boots go off and the sandals slip on, and good grief, what's growing on those feet? The season of use and abuse — People tend to exercise, hike, walk, travel and play sports more when the weather gets warm. "And women are drawn to strappy, flimsy, high heels and flip-flops," said Dr. Christine Dobrowolski, a podiatrist and author who has a foot health information website northcoastfootcare.com.

Dr. Christine Dobrowolski

"Repeated exposure to water in swimming or surfing can cause dry skin, as will repeated exposure to chemicals such as chlorine in pools and spas," she said. Also, when the temperature increases, "our feet tend to sweat more, which also increases the chances for developing fungal infections, like athlete's foot."

Source: Susan Swartz, The Press Democrat [5/23/10]

Runners Often Delay Seeking Help for Overuse injuries: TN Podiatrist

Todd Hunton completed nine triathlons without doing any running training because his feet hurt so much -- Hinton waited nearly a year before seeking professional help. In the mind of Dr. Darrell Croft, the Tennesse podiatrist Hinton finally visited, that's a common mistake for people who experience foot pain.

Dr. Darrell Croft

Croft, a veteran runner with 17 Boston Marathons under his belt, says he sees a lot of cases of plantar fasciitis. Most problems, he says, are caused by mistakes in training or other activity -- for example, taking up running and doing too much too soon, which "stresses the body so much that it can't respond." Croft says he has also seen people with foot problems caused by starting yard work in the spring wearing 10-year-old shoes.

Source: Brent Manley, The Commercial Appeal, [5/24/10]

First Article Published from APMA/SVG Joint Venture

What started as a preliminary "SALSA Summit" in February of 2009, has rapidly blossomed into a first-ever, high-level collaboration between the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) aimed at reducing amputations in people with diabetes. The first document from this collaboration was published today in the Journal of Vascular Surgery (JVS) and will also appear in next month's Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association (JAPMA).

Dr. Lawrence Lavery

"We're very proud with how this project has progressed," noted Lawrence A. Lavery, Professor of Surgery at Texas A&M University. "This joint statement is a great start. The document, entitled "The Role of Interdisciplinary Team Approach in the Management of the Diabetic Foot", is co-authored by Yale University's Bauer Sumpio, the University of Arizona/ Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA)'s David G. Armstrong, Dr. Lavery, and the Los Angeles Amputation Prevention Center's George Andros. The document will be followed by a joint special issue of the JAPMA and JVS later this year.

Three House Bills Would Require Price Transparency Among Healthcare Providers

Three House bills — two of them sponsored by Republicans — that are pending in the Energy and Commerce health subcommittee would require price transparency among healthcare providers, The Hill reported on May 6. Although the bills have bipartisan support, Democrats on the committee stopped short of promising that the bills would go to the floor this year, according to the newspaper. The broader Democratic measure has come under industry criticism, alleging it is overly expansive and requires private information on price negotiations between providers and insurers that could lead to higher prices, reported the publication.

One of the two Republican-sponsored bills requires transparency in hospital charges only, while the other requires transparency among ambulatory surgical centers, reported The Hill. None of the three bills has a Senate companion. Separately, in a May 14 conference call with reporters, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) renewed their call for action on Feinstein’s legislation (S 3078) to cap health insurance rate hikes, according to CQ HealthBeat. However, Feinstein acknowledged that her bill is unlikely to gain the 60 votes it needs for Senate action and passage, reported CQ HealthBeat.

Source: The Hill, CQ Healthbeat via Health Reform Week [5/24/10]

Handling Facebook Requests Professionally

Ease out of the obligation to accept Facebook “friend” requests from professional contacts. When people you meet at work or networking events “friend” you, respond by inviting them to connect with you on LinkedIn instead, explaining that you prefer to separate your professional and personal contacts.

Source: Adapted from “How to Decline Facebook Friends Without Offence,” Richard Baum via Communication Briefings

PM News is proud to present a new series of writing tips provided by the American Podiatric Medical Writers Association. Those interested in finding out more about APMWA can write to bblock@podiatrym.com

Capitalizing Medical Terms 

The rules regarding medical terms are no different than those that apply to non-medical terms. For example, medical specialities such as internists, dermatologists, and podiatrists are not capitalized unless they start a sentence or are part of a name, such as the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Anatomical structures and diseases are also not capitalized unless they are named after someone. Thus, "posterior tibial tendon" is not capitalized, whereas "Achilles tendon" is. Diseases such as "diabetes" are not capitalized, whereas "Reiter's syndrome" is. 

Query: Chaetomium Onychomycosis

I have a 73 y/o male patient with fungal nails who completely failed a 3 month po Lamisil course, as well as multiple OTC preps over the past few years. He has no medical problems and takes no meds, but is allergic to penicillin. I took a fungal culture which grew out Chaetomium species - heavy growth. No sensitivities were reported.  Online research suggests fluconazole as a treatment option, but there is nothing specific for Chaetomium onychomycosis. Any thoughts or recommendations on treating this type of fungal nail would be greatly appreciated.

Robert P. Thiele, DPM, Denville, NJ

Query: Replacement Motor for PDM Chair

Does anyone know where to get replacement lift motors for PDM chairs, model number X4J108B? The company states that they no longer supply replacement motors for that chair.

Frank Lattarulo, DPM, NY, NY

Query: Return of a Deadbeat Patient

Four years ago, I treated a patient with a severe mixed infection. It resolved. He bounced a $20.00 co-payment. We wasted our time billing him for 12 months for the co-payment and a $10 bank fee. He never responded. Now, he called and wants to come in. He agrees to pay the $30 (cash or credit card).
 
Why should I see someone who disrespected us? Or should I just do my "job"? Maybe I think too much of myself, as he forfeited his privilege to see me. 
 
George Jacobson, DPM, Hollywood, FL

Editor’s Comment: PM News does not provide legal advice. Since the patient previously failed to either pay his co-payment or respond to your requests, and you haven't seen him for four years, you have no responsibility to treat this patient. On the other hand, there may have been financial circumstances for his non-payment. If the patient offers a sincere apology, you might reconsider treating him. Such decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis. 

RE: Hepatitis and TB Screenings for Staff  (Steven Block, DPM)
From: Elliot Udell, DPM

Hepatitis and TB screenings for staff would be out of scope for podiatry in most, if not all, states. When I had my staff vaccinated for hepatitis B, I had the MD next door do the injections. Sure, it’s easier to give an IM vaccination for hepatitis B or to perform a PPD exam than to give a periarticular injection, but  as a podiatrist, I  am allowed to give complex pedal injections, but not allowed to give a simple vaccination in the arm.
 
Because healthcare employees who come in contact with blood are required to be vaccinated for hepatitis B and because there are legal requirements for having healthcare workers tested for exposure to tuberculosis, should a problem develop down the pike, such as an employee contracting one of those diseases, there could be legal ramifications. In such a scenario, questions as to practicing out of scope could enter the mix with dire consequences.  
 
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY, Elliotu@aol.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.S., vascular analyzer, eLlA 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 330-561-1132.  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.

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 POSITION – MANHATTAN

Part-time, in-network Board Certified or Board Eligible Podiatrist wanted for busy Manhattan practice. Please email CV to parttimepodiatrist@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION FOR HOME VISITS – CHICAGO AREA

Podiatrist wanted to make home visits in and around the Chicagoland area. Ethical, established or new practitioner welcome. Flexible work load. Good compensation. Supplement your income. Please fax or email resume to Dr. Levy @ 312-266-6784 or drlevy-homevisits@att.net

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 POSITION - MARYLAND

Podiatrist needed for Maryland practice. Fax resume to 410-749-6807.

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