Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: August 22, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+
August 22, 2026 #8,341
Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
E-mail us at bblock@podiatricnews.com
www.PodiatricNews.com
COPYRIGHT 2026 - No part of Podiatric Medical News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block.
Podiatric Medical News is no longer affiliated with Kane Communications, Inc. and Podiatry Management.
PODIATRIC QUICK POLL
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
NY Podiatrist Discusses Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a foot deformity in which there’s an abnormal bend in the middle joint of your toe. Hammertoes happen when there’s an imbalance in the muscles of your foot. "You have muscles at the top and bottom of your feet. If one of those muscle groups is stronger than the other, it may result in a hammertoe,” explains Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, a podiatrist at City Podiatry. The toe becomes crooked because one of the toe muscles becomes weak, which puts pressure on the tendons and joints in one or more toes. This causes the toe to stick up at the joint.
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| Dr. Jacqueline Sutera |
Dr. Sutera says that wearing poorly-designed shoes that don’t fit your feet, incurring an injury such as stubbing your toe, and having a family history of hammertoe are common causes. People with hammertoes are also prone to developing corns and calluses, she adds.
Source: Meghan Rabbitt, Korin Miller, Prevention [8/18/26]
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Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category - 1 articles posted
PODIATRISTS IN THE COMMUNITY
Batavia Foot Care Center Welcomes the Return of NY Podiatrist
Batavia Foot Care Center has announced the return of Courtney Foote, DPM, a valued podiatric physician recognized for her compassionate patient care and strong clinical acumen. Dr. Foote earned her podiatric medical degree at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine.
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| Dr. Courtney Foote |
Dr. Foote completed her podiatric residency at Rochester Regional Health and is board certified in foot surgery and board qualified in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ABFAS).
PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS
Keenova Advances Podiatry with 1st Patient Dosed in Phase 3 Trial of XIAFLEX®
Keenova Therapeutics PLC has announced that the first patient has been successfully enrolled and received study treatment in its Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating XIAFLEX® (collagenase clostridium histolyticum) as an investigational non-surgical treatment for patients with hammertoes.
While conservative management and surgical intervention are available, there are currently no FDA-approved non-surgical therapies indicated for the treatment of hammertoes. The primary endpoint evaluates whether XIAFLEX improves the ability to straighten the affected toe by reducing the flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Secondary objectives include changes in foot function, activity limitations, and participants' assessment of overall hammertoe severity.
Source: Keenova Therapeutics [8/20/26]
IN THE COURTS
U.S. and IL File $5.2M FCA Lawsuit Against IL Podiatrist
The United States and the State of Illinois have filed a joint complaint in intervention, alleging that a Chicago-area medical practice and billing company knowingly submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid and Medicare, resulting in the payment of more than $5.2 million in false claims.
The government’s complaint alleges that Foot & Ankle Health Care Center, LTD., European Foot & Ankle Surgical Care, LTD., their owner, Dr. Vadim Goshko, and the billing companies, Atlantic Wave Holdings, LLC and Atlantic Wave II, LLC, knowingly submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid for podiatry services performed by Dr. Goshko after he had already been terminated from the Medicaid program.
Source: U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Illinois [8/18/26]
OIG NEWS
The Nation’s Challenge to Combat Durable Medical Equipment Fraud in Medicare
Each year, bad actors defraud Medicare and taxpayers of millions of dollars by billing for durable medical equipment that enrollees do not need or never receive. Despite efforts to combat this fraud, bad actors continually devise new schemes. Bold action is needed to address the underlying problems that allow durable medical equipment fraud to persist.
CMS has recently taken steps to increase its fraud-fighting efforts. For example, CMS has created a new Fraud Defense Operations Center to more proactively identify suspect billing and suspend payments. However, given the extent of durable medical equipment fraud in Medicare and the continuously evolving nature of durable medical equipment fraud schemes, more specific attention is needed to understand and prevent this type of fraud. This white paper presents actions that CMS and others can take to stop bad actors from exploiting Medicare. It focuses on three elements that bad actors need to commit fraud: a Medicare-enrolled supplier, a physician order, and an enrollee identification number.
Source: HHS Office of the Inspector General [August 2026]
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY
9 Workflows Driving Your Claim Denials, Ranked
More than 400 revenue cycle leaders told Inovalon which workflows send their claims back. The ranking reads as a to-do list for whoever owns the front end of the practice.
No. 2. Authorization and pre-certification
Forty-six percent named authorization and pre-certification, and 17% called it their single biggest driver, second on both measures. Authorization also carries the widest gap between the damage it does and the automation aimed at it. Only 13% of respondents report automated prior authorizations, and among ambulatory practices it is 10%.
Two operational notes. An authorization on file does not guarantee payment; respondents described denials on authorized services that had to be re-submitted with proof, so keep the authorization number, the approved codes, and the valid date range on the claim record rather than in an email thread. And watch expiration dates as closely as approvals.
Source: Austin Littrell, Physicians Practice [8/18/26]
CODING & BILLING Q&As FROM CODINGHELPLINE.COM
Query: G2211 Code
What is the G2211 code and when should it be utilized? I had never heard about it in all my years of billing out claims but was recently introduced to it by a new biller I work with and was told to put it on most of my claims for complicated patients.
Podiatric Medical News Subscriber
Response from Codinghelpline.com: HCPCS G2211 is a Medicare add-on code, fully allowed and active in 2026. It pays roughly $15 to $17 extra per eligible visit. Its use was expanded in 2026: Can be appended to not only new and established patient office/outpatient E/M codes - CPT 99202-99215 AND home or residence E/M service codes CPT 99341-99350.
When NOT to Use: Do not use it for discrete, routine, or time-limited acute visits (such as a simple infection or minor acute injury) where an ongoing care relationship is neither established nor intended.
When TO Use: It reflects the extra work and continuity required when a clinician acts as the continuing focal point for all healthcare services, or provides ongoing care for a single serious or complex condition.
CMS provided a very definitive FAQ, I would read this information before implementing G2211.
David Freedman, DPM, Silver Spring, MD
Additional coding and billing questions and responses can be found at Codinghelpline.com
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (NON-CLINICAL)
RE: Epistemic Trespassing in Podiatry
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
A few days ago, a psychiatrist published a short essay in Kevin MD titled “Why Epistemic Trespassing in Medicine is a Dangerous Trend”. Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that tries to answer the question, “How do we know?”
What the author, Farid Sabet Sharghi, MD addressed was how medicine has drifted into strange territory over the last twenty years. How this is an epistemological question, I do not know. What he really wrote about was physicians suddenly becoming experts in fields they did not train in and both going public in or suddenly starting to broaden their practices to include modalities that are unproven or perhaps dangerous. Most of these modalities, when invasive aren’t reimbursed by insurances, and for the provider are happily out of patients’ pockets, but for the patient, not so happily.
Sports Medicine is a very sticky wicket. George Sheehan cemented the interface between podiatry and runners. Bob Murphy was the first to advocate rehydration. Some early podiatrists who didn’t know the difference between the Converse and Etonic jumped on the bandwagon and runners were sent to the Emergency Department with electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia from rehydrating too adequately on cool days. I used to get a charge out of asking “Sports Medicine Podiatrists” what they had in their repertoire that they reserved strictly for runners and withheld from...
Editor's note: Dr. Tomczak's extended-length letter can be read here.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (HEALTHCARE NEWS)
From: Gary Dorfman, DPM
When a patient is seen specifically for dystrophic appearing toenails, asking what they can do for the “ugly” or painful toenails, I believe, is the obligation of the treating podiatrist in order to give that patient the opportunity to have all the information on what is necessary for treatment of the condition, including appropriate lab testing. Explaining to the patient what would be the complexities involved, cost of treatment, and reasonable expectations from treatment regardless of diagnosis is paramount.
Both sides of the debate to, or not to, lab test will probably go on ad infinitum. I happen to be on the side of testing.
By the way, if Dr. Roth’s research over the past thirty years has found a “cure” for fungus nails with a 95% success rate, I offer him my sincerest congratulations, and I hope he shares it with the rest of the profession.
Gary Dorfman, DPM, Dana Point, CA
Editor's note: This topic is now closed.
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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| So that's why they're called Crocs! |
Source: Submitted by Dr. David Alper
MEETINGS & WEBINARS
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.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - EMBLATION SWIFT WART MACHINE
Emblation Swift Wart machine in excellent condition, located in Chicago. Includes official training protocol. Use for warts, IPKs, toenail fungus, and other skin lesions. Ideal for podiatry/derm. Buyer responsible for pickup or shipping. $9,500 OBO! Contact mswdpm@gmail.com for photos or more info
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
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 - WATKINSVILLE, GA
Thirty year established podiatry practice with solid revenue and referral base, loyal patients, and seamless transition. Seller will continue to practice to ease transition. Located in a vibrant medical market near desirable Watkinsville, offering excellent quality of life. Contact: MCrosby518@gmail.com
CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE AND FACULTY POSITIONS, AND FELLOWSHIPS
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.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EUGENE, OREGON
Tracktown USA! Seeking full-time rearfoot associate to join our team, ABFAS BQ/BC. Both strong clinical and surgical skills are required. 1-2 years out of residency preferred. Compensation with base and bonus structure. Benefits: insurance, paid vacation/holidays, paid CME, malpractice. Buy-in possible/suggested. Enjoy: skiing, world class road, gravel and mountain biking, fly fishing, sailing, surfing, the Oregon Coast, University of Oregon Ducks, minor league baseball, great live music, Eugene Ballet, Eugene Symphony. CV to dustydock@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 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
GENERAL NONSURGICAL PODIATRIST (DPM) - BASSETT HEALTHCARE NETWORK
Looking to join a respected, physician-led healthcare system in beautiful Central New York? Bassett Healthcare Network, an academic health system affiliated with Columbia University, seeks a General Nonsurgical Podiatrist (DPM) to join an established team of podiatrists and surgeons. Enjoy an immediate referral base from 300+ primary care providers, competitive compensation of $180,000-$225,000, uncapped incentive potential, and a sign-on bonus up to $50,000. Comprehensive benefits include malpractice coverage, CME support, retirement plan, and generous paid time off. Experience an exceptional quality of life in a vibrant lakeside community with year-round outdoor and cultural activities. Apply Today! https://apply.workable.com/bassett-healthcare-network/j/0369091E87/
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ALBANY, NEW YORK
Well-established podiatry practice in Albany, NY seeks a motivated podiatrist board qualified in forefoot surgery, with strong interests in forefoot surgery, wound care, and sports medicine. Serving the Albany community for over 40 years, we have a strong referral base providing immediate patient volume and professional growth. Position includes surgical privileges and hospital call at a local 440-bed hospital. Competitive compensation, mentorship, and partnership track available. Send CV to Steven.Lam2@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITIES - CT, DE, FL, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA & WV
US Foot & Ankle Specialists (USFAS), the nation's largest podiatric group, is hiring! We have current and upcoming opportunities for doctors ready to join now, as well as positions planned for 2027. Join a growing team committed to advanced technology, exceptional patient care, professional development, and long-term career growth. Must be licensed or in the process of obtaining licensure. To learn more, email your cover letter and resume to: recruiting@us-fas.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
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
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
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
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
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