The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 14,601 Podiatrists Daily

September 09, 2013 #4,870 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

The September issue of Podiatry Management has just been mailed. This special issue includes our cover story, "Art and Science: Prescribing, Fabrication, and Dispensing Orthotics", as well as an assortment of features, including our informative columns, and a CPME-Approved CME.

September 2013 Podiatry Management

FL Podiatrist's Restaurant to be Featured on "Emeril's Florida"   

A critically acclaimed downtown eatery “kicked it up a notch” this week with a visit from a celebrity chef and his television production crew. Emeril Lagasse, notable for Food Network shows such as “Essence of Emeril” and “Emeril Live,” dropped into DeLand’s Cress Restaurant Wednesday to film a segment for a show on The Cooking Channel's, “Emeril’s Florida.”

Cress Restaurant owners Hari and Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka pose with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse

Cress Restaurant opened in 2008 and prides itself on featuring a variety of globally inspired dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. In addition to running the restaurant, Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka runs a podiatry practice and Hari Pulapaka is a math professor at Stetson University.

Source: Anthony DeFeo, Daytona Beach News-Journal [9/6/13]

Village Podiatry Group Receives 2013 Georgia Excellence Award

Village Podiatry Group has been selected for the 2013 Georgia Excellence Award by the Small Business Institute for Excellence in Commerce (SBIEC). Each year the SBIEC conducts business surveys and industry research to identify companies that have achieved demonstrable success in their local business environment and industry category. They are recognized as having enhanced the commitment and contribution of small businesses through service to their customers and community.

SBIEC Georgia Excellence Award

Village Podiatry Group has consistently demonstrated a high regard for upholding business ethics. This recognition by SBIEC marks a significant achievement as an emerging leader and is setting benchmarks that the industry should follow.

CA Podiatrist to be Inducted as Grand Forks Distinguished Alumnus 

Grand Forks Central High School has selected five alumni to its inaugural class of Distinguished Alumni. Dr. Tom Amberry and 4 others will be formally inducted on September 13. Dr. Amberry, high school class of 1940, received a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine from the California School of Podiatric Medicine (San Francisco) in 1951. Amberry was commissioned as a Seaman First Class in the United States Navy, served in World War II and participated in the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France.

Dr. Thomas Amberry

Amberry received the first podiatry clinic license in California and served on the Board of Trustees of California College of Podiatric Medicine for 20 years. Amberry is a nationally-known lecturer and author of several journal articles on podiatric surgery. Amberry is also a world champion free throw shooter and has earned several accolades. In 1993, at the age of 71, Amberry set the Guinness Book of World Records for most consecutive free throws made in a row (2,750). Amberry has taught free throw shooting technique in all 50 states, 104 countries, and five continents.

Source: WDAZ [9/6/13]

NY Podiatrist Roughed Up by Former Boyfriend

A "foxy Manhattan stiletto guru" dubbed “Dr. Legs” was terrorized and attacked by her boyfriend when their international romance soured, landing him in handcuffs twice in 10 days, authorities said.

Dr. Emily Splichal

Dr. Emily Splichal — who sports a midriff-revealing white blazer and stethoscope in promotional glamour shots — said beau Sanjay Dev, 29, roughed her up after confronting her Aug. 23 at her Park Ave. apartment about not answering his calls that day, prosecutors said.

Source: Shayna Jacobs, New York Daily News [9/8/13]

CT Podiatrist is Facing Sentencing for Medicare Fraud

Samir Zaky is scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday in federal court in Hartford. A federal jury in June found him guilty of 14 counts of healthcare fraud and 14 counts of making false statements relating to healthcare matters. Prosecutors say from August 2010 to July 2011, Zaky submitted numerous claims to the Medicare program stating that he had performed nail avulsions, a surgical procedure that requires use of an injectable anesthetic and removes the entire border of a patient's toenail. Authorities say Zaky had only clipped or trimmed the patient's toenails. Prosecutors say sentencing guidelines show that Zaky faces about three years in prison.

Source: NECN [9/7/13]

Remove Yourself

Avoid sounding egotistical and self-centered when speaking to a group or writing an article. Nix these three words: "I", "me" and "my".

Talk or write about your listeners, not yourself. Example: Instead of saying “I’m going to teach you,” say “Today you will learn …”

The exception: when you are taking responsibility, whether for something good or bad. Use first-person pronouns to emphasize that you are accountable for the outcome.

Source: Adapted from “Executives Using Pronouns,” EMS Communications Speaker's Digest via Communication Briefings

Query: Gangrene S/P Cast Complication

These photos are of a 15 y/o boy who underwent reconstructive surgery 3 weeks ago by an orthopedic surgeon. Vascular compromise occurred secondary to a too tight cast post-op. His present status is limb/foot threatening dry gangrene. The ortho doc said to let "Mother Nature take its course." I directed him to a local wound care/HBOT center. He went there yesterday and will begin the first of 40 dives on 9/9/13.

Gangrene S/P Cast Complication

Certainly, this raises numerous legal/malpractice-related questions, but for the time being, I would kindly ask that we keep this "medical" and focus on ideas and treatments to save this young man's foot. Would a vascular consult be beneficial at this point or has the damage already been done? Would local sympathetic nerve block help improve perfusion? Are there any other wound care or limb salvage modalities that would be helpful?

RE: Genius Solutions Billing Software
From: Carla-Ruth Poma

I have been a long-time user of Genius Solutions. As a billing service located in Michigan, I believe that their reputation here is among the best of the best. They have a great product and their service and support is terrific and very reasonably priced. I use Availity as my clearinghouse for Palmetto claims and NGS DME claims, which is free. Currently, I have no out-of-state clients, but would use Availity if I did. I have used Genius for non-Michigan based clients and it performed beautifully. It is my understanding that they have passed ICD-10 testing requirements. 

Disclosure: I have no financial interest in Genius Solutions or Availity.

Carla-Ruth Poma, South Lyon, MI, Mmbsinc@aol.com

RE: Podiatrists and Hospital Privileges (Bryan C. Markinson, DPM)
From: Barry A. Wertheimer, DPM

I have agreed with your take on surgery vs. general practice for years. Prior to PICA accepting CA as a state to write insurance (approximately 30 years ago), I was brought up to Washington State to consult by another insurance company that was thinking of writing policies in CA. I recommended that they consider being the leader in writing exactly as you (Dr. Markinson) stated in your remarks...they would have the power of making this change in the profession by not insuring anyone for surgery beyond a basic level (i.e., forefoot) and only insuring those with verified training able to obtain insurance for more complicated procedures.

The profession would then regulate themselves in the exact manner you state the dental profession functions. If a podiatrist performed procedures that went beyond his/her training and insurance coverage, he/she would be in serious trouble. If a podiatric surgeon performed any service other than surgery, he/she would lose the referral base from those who were sending the patients.

Sounds like a simple solution to the problem.....no?

Barry A. Wertheimer, DPM, Southern Pines, NC, bwertheimer@gmail.com

RE: Unmatched Residency Placements Currently Stand at 80
From: Robert Bijak, DPM

The residency debacle is just a symptom of what is wrong with podiatry. Let's ignore treating the symptom (not enough residencies) and deal with the etiology, "Just what is podiatry?" This sounds like a naïve statement, but it really is the crux of our problem. When we stayed with only the foot, we were podiatrists. With our foray into the ankle and tendons of the leg that affect the foot, we are transitioning into orthopedic surgery territory. We need to ask a hard question. Is this foray redundant, and if it is, then we do not need 3 years of training to do basic foot surgery?

Is podiatric surgery really better than orthopedic surgery? After all, the majority of podiatrists do some type of surgery, and most have had from 0 - max 2 years training. For the...

Editor's comments: Dr. Bijak's extended-length letter can be read here.

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

ASSOCIATE POSITION AVAILABLE - MANHATTAN 

Excellent opportunity to join a Midtown Park Ave practice. Surgery only. You need to do forefoot surgery well. Must be ABPS board qualified or certified. CV to mailto:nealblitz@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHWEST IOWA

A well-established, Midwest multi-physician practice with strong hospital affiliations seeking FT podiatrist. Applicant should be well trained surgical physician, completed a 12/24 month residency, & board eligible. Practice offers high surgical volume, advanced wound care and good mix of general podiatry. Competitive salary, excellent benefits. Fax resume: 712-258-9977.

PODIATRIST WANTED - MN

We are seeking highly motivated, experienced and enthusiastic associate’s to join our successful, well-established practice, we currently have 6 locations and plans to add more, throughout Minnesota. The practice incorporates surgery, wound care, sports medicine and general podiatry. This opportunity offers an excellent salary, bonus and % commission with benefits, also an opportunity to become an associate down the road. PPMR/PSR required. Email CV to kpepple@midwestpodiatrycenters.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. Florida has a great scope of practice law and we rotate for ER call at all 4 hospitals. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner OK. Base salary, percentage, benefits including 401K. Fax CV to (239)566-8778 or Email CV to Drgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Very busy, two location group practice seeking a full-time, self motivated and hard working podiatry associate. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please email CV to: footcare4all@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Associate position for busy practice in Central Florida. Competitive salary with complete benefit package available. Please send resume to cmedders@atlanticpodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND/SUBURBAN DC

Busy 3 doctor practice seeking highly motivated, hard working associate. PSR 24/36 trained with opportunity for partnership.  Hospital privileges, ER call, in office ASC, etc. Will consider residents completing their program to begin work July 1, 2014 or sooner. E-mail CV to mlmltm@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – SOUTHWEST, FL

R U a SuperStar? PM&S36 or PSR24. Comfort W Recon surgery. Hardworking w/o Ego. Excellent salary, benefits, chance at partnership. ABPS BC/BQ required RRA. Send CV, recommendations, and why you are a superstar. email: mny1029@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - LONG BEACH, CA

Immediate opening available for a DPM with 2 or 3 year residency . Prefer some work experience, but with the right qualifications and can-do attitude, will consider newly out of residency. Full-time needed, must be willing to work hard and provide excellent care. We have a very fast paced, busy practice and lots of great patients. Please send your resume/c.v. and a brief note citing what you are looking for in your career to: Mil2RN@gmail.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ARIZONA

Immediate opening for a full time podiatrist in a rapidly expanding multi-office practice in the suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona. Compensation is performance based with patients scheduled from day 1 but must be entrepreneurial and an ambitious individual who can provide excellent care and expand already existing patient base. Should be familiar and competent in podiatric surgery, biomechanics, trauma, PRP, wound care, and ultrasound diagnostics. Send CV to ArizonaFootAnkle@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PENNSYLVANIA

Associate Wanted for busy, multifaceted podiatry practice in Chester and Delaware counties, Pennsylvania. Seeking PSR-24/36 trained podiatrist for full/part time associate position. Two offices and hospital privileges. Send CV and letter to: 123bunion@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PLAINFIELD, IL

Associate wanted for established practice in the suburbs of Chicago, self motivated and patient oriented a must. We will provide you with a state of the art facility, experienced support staff, $100,000+ salary, 401K with match, bonus and flexible hours. Please forward cover letter and CV to chrisbaileydpm@sbcglobal.net or fax 815-230-4925.

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA

Private practice, strong referral base. Hospital and surgery center privileges. Candidate needs to be proficient in reconstructive hindfoot/ankle surgery and trauma management. Two locations with modern offices. ABPS qualified or certified. Competitive compensation package. Potential for partnership. To apply, please email a letter of intent and CV to Practice Administrator at: vfasa21@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Looking for reliable, honest, and motivated podiatrists to join our group to assist with house calls to patient’s home residences and  group facilities. Candidate must be willing to drive throughout the San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. Part/Full time, flexible hours, independence, great compensation! Please email resume to: homefootcare@hotmail.com

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – USED PINPOINTE LASER

Used Pinpointe Laser for Sale! $19,500 Firm. Please call 202-255-6236 or email cosmedresources@verizon.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - DIOWAVE 15 WATT, PORTABLE 980 LASER

This is a used multiple function laser, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, joint pain. nerve pain, post surgical, warts, toenail  problems, two-year plus warranty, MSRP: $25,000. E mail Dr. Zuckerman at: footcare@comcast.net for questions and pricing.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - CUTTING EDGE LASER

Cutting Edge Mix-5 Class IV Super-Pulse Laser for sale. Gently used. Call 334-393-7477 with offer. Financing available.

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 14,500 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 14,500 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.

• To Post a message, send it to:    bblock@podiatrym.com
• Notes should be original and may not be submitted to other publications or listservs without our express written permission.
• Notes must be in the following form:
  RE: (Topic)
  From: (your name, DPM)
  Body of letter. Be concise. Limit to 250 words or less). Use Spellchecker
  Your name, DPM City/State
• Subscribers are reminded that they have an ethical obligation to disclose any potential conflicts of interest when commenting on any product, procedure, or service.