Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: September 18, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+ Subscribers
September 18, 2026 #8,361
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
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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APMA NEWS
APMA Comments on Proposed Topical Oxygen Therapy Coverage
APMA submitted comments on a proposed DME MAC Local Coverage Determination (LCD) addressing Medicare coverage of topical oxygen therapy (TOT) for certain non-healing diabetic foot ulcers. APMA welcomed the proposed coverage criteria, particularly the inclusion of multiple methods for assessing arterial perfusion.
APMA recommended adding near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as an additional assessment option.
Source: APMA Weekly Focus
MEDICAL EDUCATION
Medical Schools are Booming — Residency Slots Aren’t
In 2026, 10 new medical schools have been announced, and several more have opened. Yet, they may not alleviate physician shortages.
1. Across 35 specialties, there is a projected shortage of 141,160 full-time equivalent physicians and a projected shortage of 70,610 primary care providers by 2038. Only five specialties are expected to see a surplus of workers: Critical care and pulmonology, endocrinology, emergency medicine, neonatology, and neurology.
2. Physician specialties are seeing a growth rate of 3% to 6%. Dermatologists and psychiatrists lead in specialty growth at 6%; they are two of seven specialties that saw pay decreases in 2026. Overall, physician pay rose 3% in 2025.
3. On a specialty level, some of the highest-paid specialties are also among the most acutely short-staffed. Vascular surgery is projected to face the greatest shortage of any specialty by 2038, with supply meeting only 66% of projected demand. Ophthalmology follows at 72% adequacy, thoracic surgery at 73%, and plastic surgery at 74%. All four rank among the higher-paying specialties.
4. Currently employed physicians who are considering leaving clinical practice dropped to 33% in 2026 compared to 39% in 2025 and 50% in 2024.
Source: Mariah Taylor, Becker's Clinical Leadership [9/16/26] via Dr. Allen Jacobs
THE ART OF PODIATRY
Editor's note: This is the first in a series of short practical tips (clinical or practice management) which you can incorporate into your daily practice. Kudos to Dr. Allen Jacobs for suggesting this new section.
How to Establish Eye Contact with Patients
In the age of EHRs, it is easy to fall into the habit of failing to make eye contact with your patients. One easy way to do this is to note the color of the patient's eyes. Establishing eye contact is an essential tool for communicating that you care more about their well-being than simply selecting the proper CPT code for reimbursement. It also helps reduce the probability of a lawsuit if an adverse treatment outcome occurs.
Barry H. Block, DPM, JD, Forest Hills, NY
QUERIES (DME)
Query: Patients Who Change Their Minds after DME is Fabricated
I understand that we are not allowed (legally/contractually) to bill for DME until the item is dispensed to the patient. However, I am finding that we have patients whom we cast for orthotics, after confirming coverage, and then once they are fabricated, the patient changes their mind. I am stuck with custom devices I can't use and can't bill to their insurance. Is there any option/advice to remedy this?
Jay Seidel, DPM, Baltimore, MD
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1
RE: Most Recent ADA Guidelines for Care of the Diabetic Foot (2025)
From: Allen M. Jacobs, DPM
Emerging glucose-lowering therapies with PAD (and other cardiovascular disease) benefits include GLP-1 RA agents. Treatment with GLP-1 RAs may reduce risk of lower-extremity amputations, DFUs, and all-cause mortality compared with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (145). For example, oral semaglutide had a significantly lower rate of major adverse limb events (e.g., hospitalization for acute and chronic limb ischemia) in the designated cardiovascular outcome trial (146).
In addition, the Semaglutide and Walking Capacity in People with Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease and Type 2 Diabetes (STRIDE) study investigated the impact of injectable semaglutide in individuals with type 2 diabetes and PAD who were identified at the earliest symptomatic stage of PAD (Fontaine stage IIa) (147).
Semaglutide significantly improved minimal and pain-free walking distance, quality of life, and disease progression based on composite outcomes of rescue therapy initiation, all-cause death, or major adverse limb events within the 52-week study period. Post hoc subgroup analyses showed that the benefits of semaglutide were independent of baseline diabetes duration, A1C levels, BMI status, or concomitant SGLT2 inhibitor treatment.
Allen M. Jacobs, DPM, St. Louis, MO
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 2
RE: GLP-1 Medications and Podiatric Medicine and Surgery (Allen M. Jacobs, DPM, Gary S. Smith, DPM)
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Dr. Jacobs and Dr. Smith are both correct. It is possible that GLP-1 meds may be the breakthrough to public health, what antibiotics were in the last century. GLP-1 drugs, according to so many research reports, can treat so many conditions, and many of these ailments have nothing to do with obesity. GLP-1s are even effective in minimizing mortality from certain types of cancer. Yes, there are side-effects associated with these drugs. Some GLP-1s have more side-effects than others.
The same applies to the history of antibiotics. Many people died from penicillin injections until the medical profession got a grip on when not to give a patient penicillin. Other antibiotics were taken off the market because of other serious side-effects. Only the future will tell which GLP-1s are safe and which ones have risks that outweigh their benefits. As for comparing these pharmaceuticals to NSAIDs, we all know that it took a while until medical professionals learned when to prescribe and when not to prescribe NSAIDs, and ER doctors will tell you that patients with bleeding ulcers often appeared in the hospitals from improper use of these drugs.
The question DPM readers need to ask is: at what stage are we legally allowed to prescribe these drugs for our patients? How many of us are already prescribing GLP-1s?
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC PRODUCTS) - PART 1A
From: Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH, Sean Hodson, DPM
I decided to do a trial on the Swift Pro because I was skeptical about the results. I found the unit to be very painful, much more than what was advertised, and the company refused to acknowledge the significant pain that using the unit caused. As far as results, the unit worked but not at the level that was advertised. I also found the service aspect of the company to be below average.
Ivar E. Roth, DPM, MPH, Newport Beach, CA
I had a Swift device and used it for what was supposed to be 12 months "risk free". The device was not profitable so I attempted to "return" it for a refund, but I had to threaten to sue the company in order to get a partial refund. I had to get my attorney involved. So "buyer beware" on that unit.
Sean Hodson, DPM, Destin, FL
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC PRODUCTS) - PART 1B
From: Ben Pearl, DPM
Lonny, I have a couple of questions regarding your experience with the lack of support for the Swift system.
1. Clinical Utility and ROI vs. Existing Equipment. When weighing whether to add Swift—essentially a one-trick pony—versus a multi-diode laser like the Remy (which offers broader sports medicine utility and less expensive tips), I'm mindful of capital investment. Since I already own a Yag laser and two shockwave machines, I am hesitant to take on additional capital outlay right now, given the current reimbursement climate and issues with patient follow-up compliance for multi-session protocols. In your experience, what results did you actually achieve with Swift? Did it genuinely outperform cantharidin, and other lasers you've utilized in the past?
2. Manufacturer Policy and APMA Involvement. Have you reached out to the APMA for guidance or advocacy on this? Or do they simply defer to the contract terms, which apparently stipulate zero support for secondary purchases—even if the unit is essentially fresh off the lot from another practice? Personally, if a device has only been in circulation for a few months, enforcing a blanket refusal of support feels like an unfair practice. It might be worth seeing if the APMA is willing to stand behind a member on a matter like this. Good luck getting your situation sorted out, and I look forward to hearing more about your clinical takeaways with the Swift!
Ben Pearl, DPM, Arlington, VA
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Shoes of the Day
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| Walking at a snail's pace? |
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.
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
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 - SWIFTPRO CORDLESS WART REMOVAL SYSTEM
SwiftPro cordless wart removal system. Like new, used approximately 20 times. Includes charging dock, seven brand-new treatment tips, and soft carrying case for convenient storage and transport. Professional-quality equipment, well maintained and ready for use. Asking $12,000. For additional information, contact Jennifer at jennifer@gpfootandankle.com today.
PRACTICE WANTED - LOS ANGELES, CA
Established cash-buyer podiatrist seeking a profitable podiatry office or group practice to purchase with strong patient volume with opportunity for continued growth. Flexible transaction and structure. Practice owners considering retirement, transition, or sale, please contact: podiatry001@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.
FULL-TIME CHAIR FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE & SURGERY
The Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is seeking a Full-Time Chair for the Department of Podiatric Medicine & Surgery. The Chair will lead faculty, drive academic excellence, and oversee clinical experiences in a collaborative environment. Generous benefits! ($120K-$140K). jacquelyn.ortiz@rosalindfranklin.edu
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 POSITION- HUDSON VALLEY NY
Thriving for over 50 years, Family Footcare Group LLP seeks a full-time Podiatrist for its Hudson Valley, NY locations. Role covers lower extremity care, wound treatment, and surgeries. Requires DPM, accredited residency, and board eligible. Offers partnership track, competitive pay, health insurance, CME, relocation, and PTO. Send CV to gatlas@footcaregroup.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - IL, WI, LA & IN
Immediate opportunity for a qualified podiatrist to join our growing team, providing routine and referral podiatric care in Skilled Nursing Facilities. Competitive percentage-based compensation with $100,000-$150,000+ annual earning potential, based on caseload and productivity. Excellent opportunity to grow patient volume and income. Compensation details discussed during interview. info@ilfootclinic.com
MOBILE PODIATRY POSITIONS - AL, AZ, GA, IA, KS, MO, NE, OK, SC & TN
Build a rewarding podiatry career at any stage with Aria Care Partners. Join our team as a Mobile Podiatrist serving residents in skilled nursing facilities. Focus on clinical care while we provide administrative support. Daily base rate plus competitive compensation. Grow with greater purpose, autonomy, flexibility, and professional support while making a meaningful impact for an often-underserved population. New graduates and experienced Podiatrists are welcome. Send your resume to: kcampbell@aria.care
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
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 OPPORTUNITIES - CT, DE, FL, IL, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, 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
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