Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: August 15, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+
August 15, 2026 #8,336 
Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
E-mail us at bblock@podiatricnews.com
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COPYRIGHT 2026 - No part of Podiatric Medical News can be reproduced without the
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Podiatric Medical News is no longer affiliated with Kane Communications, Inc. and Podiatry Management.
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EDITOR'S NOTE
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PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 1
NY Podiatrist Joins Buffalo Medical Group
James R. Hanna, DPM has joined Buffalo Medical Group after having been in private practice for many years. BMG is a large, multi-specialty group founded eighty years ago by physicians returning home to Western New York after having served with U.S. Armed Forces in Europe during WWII.
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| Dr. James Hanna |
Dr. Hanna is a graduate of the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and completed residency training at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center in Orange County, CA. He is a Past President of the New York State Podiatric Medical Association and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the American Podiatric Medical Association.
PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY - PART 2
Bayhealth Orthopedics Welcomes DE Podiatrist
Bayhealth has welcomed podiatrist Michael Griesser, DPM to its Bayhealth Orthopedics, Smyrna practice. Dr. Griesser has a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has board certification from the Board of Podiatric Medicine and is board certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
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| Dr. Michael Griesser |
Prior to joining the Bayhealth Orthopedics practice, Dr. Griesser spent 12 years working in private practice podiatry medicine and surgery locally and at health systems in the mid-Atlantic region such as Inspira Health Network in Vineland, New Jersey and Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics in Baltimore, Maryland.
Source: Cape Gazette [8/14/26]
MEETING NEWS
APMA National Spotlights Podiatric Supergroups
The American Podiatric Medical Association’s Annual Scientific Meeting (The National) wrapped up last week in Nashville. The keynote sessions included an in-depth discussion moderated by Alex Wayne (Executive Editor of KFF Health News) with the heads of three supergroups, Burt Rubin (CEO Curalta Foot and Ankle), David Thorpe (CEO Upperline Health), and Lowell Weil Jr., DPM (Executive Chairman Balance Health).
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| Podiatric Super Groups Panelists at APMA National |
From the informative clinical track to the new leadership and business sessions, APMA members had access to the best educational opportunities to expand their professional knowledge.
CMS NEWS
CMS Enforcement Arsenal Expands to Share OIG’s Exclusion Authority
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been granted authority to use federal healthcare program exclusion authorities that previously had been delegated only to the HHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG), with the delegation appearing to take immediate effect.
Exclusion can remove individuals or entities from Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and other federal healthcare programs, and this development adds a significant new tool to CMS’s expanding enforcement arsenal. It also creates uncertainty around how CMS and OIG will coordinate exclusion decisions, particularly in False Claims Act settlements, self-disclosure protocol matters, corporate integrity agreements, and advisory opinion contexts.
Source: Tony Maida, James A. Cannatti III, and Dexter Golinghorst, McDermott News [8/12/26]
SOLE PURPOSE BY SAVANNAH SANTIAGO, DPM
Lost in Translation: How Language Gaps Undermine Patient Care
Here are some valuable tips that have aided Savannah Santiago, DPM in navigating her experiences as a student and a resident:
6. A common argument that I hear is that “the translators at the hospital aren’t good.” While I can’t personally vouch for the skill level of every individual interpreter, this generalization misses the point. Most hospitals now offer multiple interpretation options — including in-person interpreters, video remote interpretation (often via iPad), phone-based services, and even certified third-party vendors. With this range of choices, it's highly unlikely that none of these resources provide access to a competent, qualified interpreter.
Are all interpreters perfect? Of course not. Just like with any profession, skill levels can vary. But dismissing the entire system based on isolated negative experiences does a disservice to the many trained professionals who work hard to bridge the communication gap. Moreover, the solution isn’t to abandon the use of interpreters altogether — it’s to advocate for better quality assurance, increased training, and improved workflows that prioritize language access.
Source: This series is adapted from and courtesy of PRESENT eLearning Systems
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CODING AND BILLING)
RE: Oct 1 Plantar Fasciitis Code Change
From: Salman Lakhani
What every podiatry practice needs to do before October 1, 2026. On October 1, 2026, M72.2 — Plantar fascial fibromatosis — is deleted from ICD-10-CM. For years, this has been the code most podiatry practices report for plantar fasciitis.
Two separate destinations replace it, and they are not interchangeable.
For plantar fasciitis (a new code family): M67.A01 Plantar fasciitis, right foot M67.A02 Plantar fasciitis, left foot M67.A09 Plantar fasciitis, unspecified foot
For plantar fibromatosis/Ledderhose disease: M72.20 Plantar fascial fibromatosis, unspecified foot M72.21 Plantar fascial fibromatosis, right foot M72.22 Plantar fascial fibromatosis, left foot
WHY THIS ONE IS LIKELY TO SLIP THROUGH
The obvious re-map is the wrong one. A practice updating its templates sees M72.2 disappear, finds M72.20 / M72.21 / M72.22 in its place, and maps straight across — landing every plantar fasciitis encounter on a...
Editor's note: Salman Lakhani's extended-length letter appears here.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (HEALTHCARE NEWS)
RE: Stop Assuming Every Thick, Yellow Nail Is Fungus
From: Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH
I read this article and said the following to myself: "that is ridiculous." If a nail is yellow, it is fungus 98% of the time. There is no need, in my opinion, to do any kind of testing as 50% of the time it comes back "no fungus." These tests are a waste of time and money when the treatment works no matter what the test results or nails look like.
As I have mentioned before, my cure rate for nail fungus was 90% plus, and now with my new protocols, I am at 95% and I have cut down the treatment time by 20 to 30%. Average clearance time is now approaching 2 months for small toes and 3 months for halluces.
Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH, Newport Beach, CA
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Gary S. Smith, DPM
In reference to Dr. Tomczak’s letter, yes, monkeys will be doing surgery. This I believe is the future of medicine. Right now, Medicare has frozen the number of residencies allowed. This is leading to an expansion of PAs in the medical settings like ERs. You can get a 4 or 5 year undergrad degree from Ireland and come to the US, do a GP residency, and practice medicine, even be called Dr.
In my area, there is a UPMC hospital that has no doctors. The ER is staffed by PAs, the hospital is staffed by PAs, and the anesthesia is done by CRNAs. This is the future. I believe that within a few years PAs will be doing surgery in the OR. They already assist and do surgical procedures in the office. Many PAs run entire practices without any supervision. In a local hospital there is a large cardiology clinic and when you call, you get an appointment with the "cardiologist" that is actually a PA who just a few years ago was a GP. There is no actual cardiologist physician. It's just a matter of time before PAs take over podiatry in places where we are employed. They are cheaper and can pretend to be us just like they pretend to be MDs and DOs.
Gary S. Smith, DPM, Bradford, PA
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Jim Christina, DPM
I am not usually one to defend AACPM, as I frequently disagree with some of their student recruitment efforts. However, with regards to accessing statistics of students at podiatric medical schools, there is a wealth of information publicly available and easy to access. Just go to the AACPM website and click on the "statistics" tab at the top of the page.
Nothing is hidden and there is no subterfuge.
Jim Christina, DPM, Lewes, DE
Editor's comment: If you click on the "statistics" tab of the AACPM website, the latest enrollment statistics post are about the 2025 entering class.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1C
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
Will someone be releasing the number of students enrolled in the class of 2030 at the eleven podiatry schools soon? I am anxious to see the real numbers in order to halt speculation concerning the future of our profession.
Please do not respond by saying you are working on the demographics, mean GPAs, and MCAT scores. We are not interested in gender or ethnic IDs. In the past, there was a rolling tally of students throughout the application year released to the public. That has not been the case this year. Medical schools have all been forthcoming. All schools have had orientation, White Coat ceremonies where applicable, and start of class dates released. I am only interested in the number of freshmen students who are fully matriculated at each school.
As you are aware, the profession is watching closely and the level of concern is high. Sooner or later, the exact number of matriculants has to be released, and since class has begun and applications closed some months ago, I can see no valid reason for withholding the number of students who began class. If commencement of classes was delayed, it would be nice to release the reason for the delay and the anticipated actual start dates. We may have students who could begin this year if there was a significant delay.
Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD, Columbus, OH
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Foot of the Day
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| We thought you'd get a kick out of this! |
Source: Submitted by Dr. Arthur Gudeon
MEETINGS & WEBINARS
CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE AND FACULTY POSITIONS, AND FELLOWSHIPS
PODIATRIC MEDICAL NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 23,000 DPMs AND STUDENTS
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LEVEL UP YOUR PODIATRY CAREER IN NYC!
Join Footcare Now! From dermatology to reconstructive surgery, our platform drives your growth with full-time, part-time, or flexible roles. Learn while you earn in the heart of New York—relocation assistance provided! Apply now: Send your CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - TUCSON, ARIZONA
The Sonoran Foot & Ankle Institute is seeking a motivated podiatrist to join our growing multi-physician private practice serving Tucson, Green Valley, and Oro Valley. We offer a $200,000 base salary, comprehensive benefits, an established patient base from day one, strong referral relationships, surgical exposure, supportive mentorship, and long-term growth opportunities. Enjoy a collaborative, patient-centered environment with the autonomy to develop your own practice style. Contact: contact@sonoranfootandankle.com
FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITY - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Loma Linda Foot and Ankle Center is a busy, well-established, physician-owned podiatry practice seeking a full-time Associate Podiatrist to join our growing team. We are looking for a motivated, compassionate, and ethical physician with excellent clinical and surgical skills who is committed to providing outstanding patient care. Qualifications: *DPM degree from an accredited institution *Completion of a minimum 24-month surgical residency *Board Qualified or Board Certified (preferred) *Strong work ethic and excellent communication skills *California license (or eligible for licensure) Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to: llfootankle@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN VIRGINIA (FAIRFAX, ANNANDALE)
Established private practice seeking full-time board qualified/certified podiatrist. Residency with RRA preferred. Practice with strong referral base, high patient volume, become part of a teaching/mentor at INOVA Fairfax residency program. Email CV to: kashanidpm@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO
Onyx health group is looking to hire podiatrists for Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities in the Cleveland and Dayton areas. Set your own hours, clinical support, excellent commission pay. New grads as well as those with experience are welcome to apply. Info@onyxhealthgrp.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITIES - MULTIPLE STATES
US Foot & Ankle Specialists (USFAS), the nation's largest podiatric group, is hiring! We have immediate and future openings in MD, MO, NC, VA, & WV—ideal for doctors ready now or upcoming graduates. Join a team committed to advanced technology, top-tier care, and long-term growth. Must be licensed or in process. Email cover letter and resume to: recruiting@us-fas.com
MOBILE POSITIONS - DAYTONA, JACKSONVILLE, NAPLES, ORLANDO, PANHANDLE, SARASOTA, TAMPA
Responsible DPM/NP/PA team players. Home visits, ILF/ALF/Rehab. Paid travel. No call. No ER. Half days or 9-5. Weekends optional. Autonomy. Potential commission up to $230K+/yr based on availability and performance. Serious FL licensed applicants email contact@PodiatristAtHome.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTH OF BOSTON, MA
We are seeking a full-time associate, ABFAS BE/BC, to join our well-established group practice with a strong reputation. Our practice is deeply integrated within our hospital system and medical community and we engage in both inpatient and outpatient care. We have an excellent referral network with high influx of new patients. We handle wide range of elective surgeries and manage diabetic foot infection/limb salvage. Despite our strong integration within our hospital system, we maintain our autonomy, ensuring a positive work-life balance. We offer an excellent compensation/benefits package. Outstanding opportunity for qualified candidate. Email CV: footdocsma@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - WASHINGTON STATE, TEXAS, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON DC, NEW YORK
Podiatry positions available for immediate hire in Nursing Facilities in Spokane, Yakima, and Seattle, Washington, Central and Northwestern Virginia, Houston and San Antonio, Texas, Washington DC, and New York. Send CV and Cover letter to office@easternpodiatrypllc.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND
Thriving podiatry practice with 3 office locations seeking highly motivated and reliable full-time associate. Candidate must be board eligible, residency with RRA preferred. Great work environment with strong support staff. Competitive compensation, benefits package, and generous sign-on bonus offered. Please email CV to: careers@mynewfeet.com
LOOKING FOR YOUR FOREVER PRACTICE? JOIN OUR TEAM! - NEW JERSEY
New Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute is seeking a well-rounded Associate Podiatrist interested in a long-term relationship and partnership opportunity within our growing, diverse, and highly successful practice in Northwestern New Jersey. We offer an outstanding work environment, competitive salary, excellent benefits, and significant professional growth potential. To apply, send your résumé to: John.guiliana@gmail.com
FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON - MANHATTAN, NY
Join Gotham Footcare, a thriving Manhattan practice offering competitive compensation, health benefits, and a $10,000 relocation bonus. Board-Eligible or Board-Certified candidates are required; strong surgical skills are preferred. Email your CV to ana@gothamfootcare.com
ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - AL, AZ, GA, IA, KS, MO, NE, OK, SC & TN
Aria Care Partners is seeking Mobile Podiatrists to work 1-2 days/week in skilled nursing facilities. You will have autonomy and focus on clinical care while we take care of all scheduling and billing. Guaranteed daily base rate plus competitive compensation. Electronic charting and all equipment provided. Make a true difference in an under-served population. New graduates or experienced practitioners are welcome! Email CV to: kcampbell@aria.care
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, CLINICAL SURGERY - NYCPM
NYCPM of Touro University seeks an Assistant Professor, Clinical Surgery for the Department of Surgery. Must be board certified, have a NYS license and a current DEA Certificate. This position teaches surgery and podiatric medicine to 3rd and 4th year podiatric medical students. Duties include patient care, student education, live lectures in classrooms and patient settings, including workshops, webinars and seminars. Candidates will participate in scholarly service activities within the College community and work collaboratively with faculty, students, staff and administration. Prior teaching experience strongly recommended. Salary range $136,000-$170,000. Complete application (including proof of board certification) here
CLASSIFIED ADS - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
Podiatric Medical News CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 23,000 DPMs AND STUDENTS
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, Podiatric Medical News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 23,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatricnews.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
PRACTICE FOR SALE -SPOKANE, WA
35 year established and turnkey practice in Spokane, WA grossing $800k/year. Owner wants to cut back or retire. Wanting to pay it forward by offering the same work-life balance opportunity that I have enjoyed. Enjoy low cost of living, minimal traffic, access to mountains, lakes and four seasons. Email Thomasink50@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - TAMPA, FL
Podiatry practice in Tampa, Florida looking for an associate with the desire to purchase the practice. Practice consists of 250 bed nursing home and 100 bed Assisted Living facility. Doctor is willing to stay on to ensure smooth transition. Send resume to Tampafootdoctor@gmail.com or call us (813) 750-5642.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - X-RAY EQUIPMENT
USED/LIKE NEW High frequency X-RAY unit with full Rayence software integration & Digital X-RAY XMARU1012 WCA Wireless flat panel portable detector and 3 lithium ion batteries, located in NJ - EMAIL DOCTORBHALJA@GMAIL.COM for details, pics and discounted pricing.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - LASERS
Lunula Laser NO CLICK MODEL, never a click fee, like new, $27,500 OBO. Cutera, Genesis Plus Laser, lightly used great for fungus nails, scars. $18,000 OBO. Dr. Ivar Roth. 949-650-1147 or E mail Frontoffice@CPSNewport.com
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