No DPMs vs. MDs

[flypod]

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Found this article somewhat interesting -

PA Courts Rules DPM's Cannot Testify Against MD's

A doctor of podiatric medicine may not testify as an expert witness against a doctor of medicine.

Holding: A podiatric surgeon does not possess sufficient education, training, knowledge and experience in orthopedics to provide credible, competent testimony about a standard of care appropriate to an orthopedic surgeon.

http://www.allbusiness.com/health-care-social-assistance/ambulatory-health/321771-1.html#

 

[Podman]

Found this article somewhat interesting -

PA Courts Rules DPM's Cannot Testify Against MD's

A doctor of podiatric medicine may not testify as an expert witness against a doctor of medicine.

Holding: A podiatric surgeon does not possess sufficient education, training, knowledge and experience in orthopedics to provide credible, competent testimony about a standard of care appropriate to an orthopedic surgeon.

http://www.allbusiness.com/health-care-social-assistance/ambulatory-health/321771-1.html#

uhhhh i hate to ruin your parade, but DPMs (at least in other states) can and do testify against other MD's whenever called upon in conditions/cases pertaining to our scope of practice...

 

[flypod]

i think that a DPM should be able to testify without question against a MD. i just thought that article was kinda interesting. i also thought it was a load of crap at the same time.

 

[cool_vkb]

Found this article somewhat interesting -

PA Courts Rules DPM's Cannot Testify Against MD's

A doctor of podiatric medicine may not testify as an expert witness against a doctor of medicine.

Holding: A podiatric surgeon does not possess sufficient education, training, knowledge and experience in orthopedics to provide credible, competent testimony about a standard of care appropriate to an orthopedic surgeon.

http://www.allbusiness.com/health-care-social-assistance/ambulatory-health/321771-1.html#

the article says

"First, the court found that Lazar relied on textbooks not identified as orthopedic texts and that he consulted two podiatrists, not orthopedists, for advice in the matter. Next, Lazar did not identify, even minimally, a standard of care common to all surgeons, podiatrists and orthopedists alike. Nor did he provide evidence of where a podiatric approach and an orthopedic approach would coincide or why an orthopedic surgeon should adhere to the standards of care appropriate to the subspecialty of podiatric surgery. "

u are arriving to conclusion so soon. it never said at all, that all DPMs are barred from testifying. this judgement was for this case only. and if read this part again and u will have the answer for urself why the gave that judgement. im no expert but i definetly can understand why this descion was taken from reading it. and the artice which u r referring is not 100% authentic. that itself is posted by some other confused mind on that site. And the title has been given by that fellow not from the original journal from where he took this article.

this has nothing to do with the judgement but just my thought on this case, common u know this Suing cases, its all abt sucking money from the doctors. charging someone with a battery for a simple biunion surgery is ridiculous itself. this itself shows that this people were more for money than justice. if they were really out for justice, how they wud have just charged the MD with a negligence charge and some other charge. but battery, tat is ridiculous. i wonder how come they didnt got the idea of charging the poor orthoped with "homicide". i think the patient as well as the pod who supported her shud know what exactly "BATTERY" means. may the patient shud have watched CSI or Law-order serials. and then here we have people complaining, the cost of healthcare is rising. if stupid people continue suing and put some ridiculous charges on dcotors, ofcourse they are going to increase the insurance and subsequently their fees.

 

[capo]

Found this article somewhat interesting -

PA Courts Rules DPM's Cannot Testify Against MD's

A doctor of podiatric medicine may not testify as an expert witness against a doctor of medicine.

Holding: A podiatric surgeon does not possess sufficient education, training, knowledge and experience in orthopedics to provide credible, competent testimony about a standard of care appropriate to an orthopedic surgeon.

http://www.allbusiness.com/health-care-social-assistance/ambulatory-health/321771-1.html#

Come on dude, you didn't find this interesting you found it ENTICING. You, as well as everyone on here knows, that you are using any means to rile everyone vs. you. Don't play the , "who, what... me?" game with us either. Look objectively at everyone one of your posts. They are meant to incite some sort of anti-pod stance. I rest MY case, dude...👎

 

[AZPOD Rocks]

i think that a DPM should be able to testify without question against a MD. i just thought that article was kinda interesting. i also thought it was a load of crap at the same time.

If you are genuinely interested in pursuing a podiatric medical and surgical education, it would be wise to look for strengths of the profession instead of perceived inequalities. Your recent posts show someone attempting to knock holes in the public perception of podiatry. This is especially silly coming from someone with little admitted experience in the field.

You best bet would be to contact AZPOD faculty, let them know you are interested in shadowing one of them on a surgical day and see what kind of "real doctors" they are. After this, go shadow a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon without disclosing your interest in podiatry (doing so would alter the way he/she acts during your shadowing experience). Then, get back on SDN and tell us what you think. I think an achilles tendon repair, a few nerve decompressions, a couple endoscopic plantar fasciotomies, and a bunionectomy would help you to see what podiatry has to offer in terms of surgery. After this, go shadow someone in the office and watch how expertly the podiatric physician seeks to keep his/her patients out of the OR in the first place... or helps them get back to health when they have been to the OR.

After experiences similar to these, you will look at information you find online from a new, enlightened perspective. You won't depend on the internet and internet bums (like me 🙂 ) to tell you what you should think. If you do end up shadowing, please get on and tell us about it. I think you'll be pretty excited!

AZPOD Rocks

 

[MossPoh]

Of course if you do have other interests the TK, hip replacement, knee scoping, and rotator cuff repair you see with the orthopedic guy will probably be just as interesting. 😉

Sidenote. I have had a hard time FINDING a surgical pod to follow around. (I really want to) Do these guys just kind of flow around to wherever or are there regions where they are heavier in concentration? My hometown has one podiatrist and he pretty much does everything but the surgery.

 

[Dr_Feelgood]

Where do you live???

 

[flypod]

I have shadowed pods in private practice. Most of them dont do the kind of surgery you've talked about. Achilles tendons? Yes, in residency. In real life most orthos will take them.

The most complex of surgeries done in residency will never be seen in private practice. Dont believe me, just ask a "realistic" pod. The guy I shadowed was my own DPM who did my great toe. He was OCPM and 3 years at a hospital called permanente (sp?). He's been in private practive I'd say about 4 years.

 

[Podman]

I have shadowed pods in private practice. Most of them dont do the kind of surgery you've talked about. Achilles tendons? Yes, in residency. In real life most orthos will take them.

The most complex of surgeries done in residency will never be seen in private practice. Dont believe me, just ask a "realistic" pod. The guy I shadowed was my own DPM who did my great toe. He was OCPM and 3 years at a hospital called permanente (sp?). He's been in private practive I'd say about 4 years.

Ok, can you please not generalize your experience based on one pod - yes, DPMs do Achilles Tendon lenghening procedures - OUTSIDE of residencies. Notice I didn't say ALL DPMs do that procedure - or all surgical procedures but quite a few do. And no offence, you're not an expert to make statements like that unless you are a practicing DPM.

Listen, take what you want out of this - those are the facts infront of you - you're the one who asked and inquired - if you're not satisfied with the answers you're getting and feel that you need to inquire more, then go shadow other DPMs, and if you're still not happy - then there's absolutely nothing wrong with looking at other career choices. I don't mean to be rude, but this isn't exactly a "recruiting" facility - people ask questions, we'll answer to the best of our knowledge - given the fact that we are actually IN that field - but please don't pass off your opinions or those of a couple of DPMs as facts without proper research. Thank you

Good luck

 

[flypod]

Ok, can you please not generalize your experience based on one pod - yes, DPMs do Achilles Tendon lenghening procedures - OUTSIDE of residencies. Notice I didn't say ALL DPMs do that procedure - or all surgical procedures but quite a few do. And no offence, you're not an expert to make statements like that unless you are a practicing DPM.

Listen, take what you want out of this - those are the facts infront of you - you're the one who asked and inquired - if you're not satisfied with the answers you're getting and feel that you need to inquire more, then go shadow other DPMs, and if you're still not happy - then there's absolutely nothing wrong with looking at other career choices. I don't mean to be rude, but this isn't exactly a "recruiting" facility - people ask questions, we'll answer to the best of our knowledge - given the fact that we are actually IN that field - but please don't pass off your opinions or those of a couple of DPMs as facts without proper research. Thank you

Good luck

With all due respect, you have no idea about my background and its relationship to podiatry. I've shadowed DPMs at the VA, private practice, and in residency at Phoenix Baptist hospital on MULTIPLE occasions. I know what they do. I know what surgical pods do. I also know that atleast where I am from (Salt Lake City and Phoenix) pods in private practice dont get called into the ER for achilles, MVAs, fractures, or other complex procedures. Why do you think I am bashing pods? I think you need to realize what the majority of your pts will be for in private practice. Bunions, nails, derm, orthotics, and ulcerations.

Just because I am not a pod, doesnt mean I dont know alot about it. I was a tech in the ER for years as an EMT-I before I became an airline pilot. I've spent more time talking to MDs, DOs, and DPMs than you may think.

One of my best friends is a surgical pod is Salt Lake. With all due respect, I've seen alot of students glamorize podiatry to be more than it really is. I am okay with doing the above procedures in pvt practice. The majority of DPMs will not be doing complex sx in private practice. Why arent you okay with that?

How do you consider yourself "in the field"? You are a pod student 2 years into it. You sir, have no clue as to what the real world of private practice holds for 90% of doctors both DPM, MD, and DDS. You cant talk until you've dealt with insurance, hospital admins, HMOs, PPOs, Medicare, Medicaid, coding, malpractice, geographics, admission privelages, surgical privelages, MDs' attitudes, and so forth.

I think you need to stop pretending to be a real life practicing doc because your're not at this point. We can all ask questions to see others opinions and thoughts - regardless of whether we know the answer.

I am trying to get into pod. I still have to take pre-med. So, I will ask you about that and take your advice. But as for real world medicine, its only opinions at this point.

 

[JEWmongous]

Just stop asking so many questions and trolling if you know so much about podiatry skippy. Let those who want to learn about the profession do so and not have to deal with your constant nonchalant trolling.

 

[Podman]

With all due respect, you have no idea about my background and its relationship to podiatry. I've shadowed DPMs at the VA, private practice, and in residency at Phoenix Baptist hospital on MULTIPLE occasions. I know what they do. I know what surgical pods do. I also know that atleast where I am from (Salt Lake City and Phoenix) pods in private practice dont get called into the ER for achilles, MVAs, fractures, or other complex procedures. Why do you think I am bashing pods? I think you need to realize what the majority of your pts will be for in private practice. Bunions, nails, derm, orthotics, and ulcerations.

Just because I am not a pod, doesnt mean I dont know alot about it. I was a tech in the ER for years as an EMT-I before I became an airline pilot. I've spent more time talking to MDs, DOs, and DPMs than you may think.

One of my best friends is a surgical pod is Salt Lake. With all due respect, I've seen alot of students glamorize podiatry to be more than it really is. I am okay with doing the above procedures in pvt practice. The majority of DPMs will not be doing complex sx in private practice. Why arent you okay with that?

Well now, if you know all the answers then why are you wasting my time and yours with those questions? What, are you trying to quiz us or something?

Listen, your "experience" is well and dandy, but I really doubt that you are an expert source on this field. The majority of DPM's with surgical training do perform surgeries - whether you like it or not...I'm speaking from experience with colleagues, recent grads, family, and yes, even residency directors. Anyways, like I said, you have your set of experiences that you want to believe, which is fine, but don't come here and pass them vivid facts under the name of "inquiry".

No one is trying to "recruit" you man, look its simple as that - if you don't like this field, and are convinced by your experiences, then follow your instinct and look for something else - MD, DO, DDS, Dchiro, whatever. I won't be offended really.

Good luck with your career choices man

 

[flypod]

Just stop asking so many questions and trolling if you know so much about podiatry skippy. Let those who want to learn about the profession do so and not have to deal with your constant nonchalant trolling.

I am not trolling but I dont believe that the "regulars" here depict accurate information about life after podiatry school to people who are genuinely interested. I've been fed a completely different story from practicing docs, residency directors (SLC VA), and even pod school reps than is being laid out here.

After working in the hospital, I saw a completely different story. My good friend who is a surg pod in SLC tells a different story than all of you do.

I just dont buy the glamourous lifestyle you all portray about being a pod and if I am going to get into this industry, I want the real scoop not some touched-up picture a 2nd year pod student who thinks they know the ins and outs of the business view.

I noticed some members get banned for trolling. Well, go ahead. I could care less. Anytime someone wants a little more than what you're able to offer as a 2nd year student or even brand new pod and has a different opinion or insight, you take their membership away. After all, you wouldnt want someone asking real questions about the industry that cant be glamorized.

Where is the truth on this speciality? I think I get bits and pieces. The real world of being a pod in pvt practice and dealing with all the pertinent issues will be a real eye opener for most.

 

[jonwill]

I guess it is about as "glamorous" as any other medical specialty
If you ask me, medicine in general isn't very glamorous!

 

[funfeet]

With all due respect, you have no idea about my background and its relationship to podiatry. I've shadowed DPMs at the VA, private practice, and in residency at Phoenix Baptist hospital on MULTIPLE occasions. I know what they do. I know what surgical pods do. I also know that atleast where I am from (Salt Lake City and Phoenix) pods in private practice dont get called into the ER for achilles, MVAs, fractures, or other complex procedures. Why do you think I am bashing pods? I think you need to realize what the majority of your pts will be for in private practice. Bunions, nails, derm, orthotics, and ulcerations.

Just because I am not a pod, doesnt mean I dont know alot about it. I was a tech in the ER for years as an EMT-I before I became an airline pilot. I've spent more time talking to MDs, DOs, and DPMs than you may think.

One of my best friends is a surgical pod is Salt Lake. With all due respect, I've seen alot of students glamorize podiatry to be more than it really is. I am okay with doing the above procedures in pvt practice. The majority of DPMs will not be doing complex sx in private practice. Why arent you okay with that?

How do you consider yourself "in the field"? You are a pod student 2 years into it. You sir, have no clue as to what the real world of private practice holds for 90% of doctors both DPM, MD, and DDS. You cant talk until you've dealt with insurance, hospital admins, HMOs, PPOs, Medicare, Medicaid, coding, malpractice, geographics, admission privelages, surgical privelages, MDs' attitudes, and so forth.

I think you need to stop pretending to be a real life practicing doc because your're not at this point. We can all ask questions to see others opinions and thoughts - regardless of whether we know the answer.

I am trying to get into pod. I still have to take pre-med. So, I will ask you about that and take your advice. But as for real world medicine, its only opinions at this point.

If you don't want to do podiatry, then don't. Dont insult the ones that do. I at least do not mind if you want to be a dentist or an MD. Just dont insult the rest of us. I'm going next year. I like how we can ask help on SDN and gain more info. It's people like you who make this discouraging. So please just stop.

 

[Podman]

I am not trolling but I dont believe that the "regulars" here depict accurate information about life after podiatry school to people who are genuinely interested. I've been fed a completely different story from practicing docs, residency directors (SLC VA), and even pod school reps than is being laid out here.

After working in the hospital, I saw a completely different story. My good friend who is a surg pod in SLC tells a different story than all of you do.

I just dont buy the glamourous lifestyle you all portray about being a pod and if I am going to get into this industry, I want the real scoop not some touched-up picture a 2nd year pod student who thinks they know the ins and outs of the business view.

Ok, that is excellent that you can do research because your posts prove otherwise. You spoke to a residency director and a friend, I spoke to multiple residency directors and friends - Your opinions are not facts, they are opinions - nothing more. However, I feel that I'm wasting my time responding to your posts because clearly you know everything - because you have one friend in podiatry and supposingly you spoke with the directors as well...which is fine.

I just find it funny that you claim to know so much, yet you didn't know that some DPMs train orthopoedic residents (per the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery)...then again, what do i know, I'm just a third year student - right?

Look, I'm all for inquiring and asking questions - but don't claim to be an expert. Good luck with your search

 

[OOK]

I am not trolling but I dont believe that the "regulars" here depict accurate information about life after podiatry school to people who are genuinely interested. I've been fed a completely different story from practicing docs, residency directors (SLC VA), and even pod school reps than is being laid out here.

After working in the hospital, I saw a completely different story. My good friend who is a surg pod in SLC tells a different story than all of you do.

I just dont buy the glamourous lifestyle you all portray about being a pod and if I am going to get into this industry, I want the real scoop not some touched-up picture a 2nd year pod student who thinks they know the ins and outs of the business view.

I noticed some members get banned for trolling. Well, go ahead. I could care less. Anytime someone wants a little more than what you're able to offer as a 2nd year student or even brand new pod and has a different opinion or insight, you take their membership away. After all, you wouldnt want someone asking real questions about the industry that cant be glamorized.

Where is the truth on this speciality? I think I get bits and pieces. The real world of being a pod in pvt practice and dealing with all the pertinent issues will be a real eye opener for most.

flypod if i was you I would stop posting in this forum. That's just an advise. People choose to do what they like. if you don't like podiatry, do something else.
Good luck in your search for happiness.

 

[Podman]

I noticed some members get banned for trolling. Well, go ahead. I could care less. Anytime someone wants a little more than what you're able to offer as a 2nd year student or even brand new pod and has a different opinion or insight, you take their membership away. After all, you wouldnt want someone asking real questions about the industry that cant be glamorized.

Where is the truth on this speciality? I think I get bits and pieces. The real world of being a pod in pvt practice and dealing with all the pertinent issues will be a real eye opener for most.

Oh good god man, look if you don't like this field - then don't do it - do something else - but don't come here and tell me that you know more because really you don't. You don't know anything about our training - in fact, didn't you also question "why a foot doc would need to learn systemic diseases?"

Listen, just because your friend is having a tough time out there that doesnt mean that the problem is in the field. Do yourself a favor and keep doing research in something that you like. If you think this profession is no good for you, try something else - others here, including myself love it! But not everyone does, just like every other career.

 

[cool_vkb]

Oh good god man, look if you don't like this field - then don't do it - do something else - but don't come here and tell me that you know more because really you don't. You don't know anything about our training - in fact, didn't you also question "why a foot doc would need to learn systemic diseases?"

Listen, just because your friend is having a tough time out there that doesnt mean that the problem is in the field. Do yourself a favor and keep doing research in something that you like. If you think this profession is no good for you, try something else - others here, including myself love it! But not everyone does, just like every other career.

Podman Sir!, ignore this idiot. he is just trying to have timepass. As soon as a person says "YOU DONT KNOW ABT MY EXPERIENCE". i assume he is nothing but a dirty rat looking for some fun. When he has this much experience, when he has a friend who is a pod, when he knows that much abt podiatry, what the hell is he doing in our forum. Just ignore this idiot. dont answer him anymore. he is just looking for fun. again one more case of a guy looking for an outlet to express his problems

 

[flypod]

If you don't want to do podiatry, then don't. Dont insult the ones that do. I at least do not mind if you want to be a dentist or an MD. Just dont insult the rest of us. I'm going next year. I like how we can ask help on SDN and gain more info. It's people like you who make this discouraging. So please just stop.

All I am saying is do your homework before you invest 100K+ in a field that has had some serious issues in the past 10 years.

 

[Podman]

All I am saying is do your homework before you invest 100K+ in a field that has had some serious issues in the past 10 years.

thanks, and perhaps you should do the same...

good luck with your career

 

[flypod]

i am. honestly, good luck in pod school.

 

[gustydoc]

Talk to any private practice MD's or Do's and you will find that the "problems" your DPM friend is complaining about are largely universal to medicine as a whole. The fact of the matter is that re-imbursements across the board are getting smaller, malpractice insurance costs more and HMO's are making life miserable for all of us who want to help people. This is not a problem that is specific to podiatry, but rather one that is widespread throughout medicine. When you hear a DPM complaining about how hard it is to run a successful practice in todays healthcare environment rest assured that there is an MD or DO who shares the same problems. The DPM students on this forum share the same optimism as the student in the MD or Do forum. Unfortunately the hard facts about todays healthcare environment will effect us all the same regardless of the alphabet soup that follows our name after graduation. We can work together as physicians (podiatric or otherwise) and make medicine a great field to be in or we can continue to demean and belittle each other and allow managed care and the government to make life miserable for new docs. Sorry flypod if there is any genuine intuition behind your inquiries. Otherwise, please find something better to do than distract those of who have a genuine interest in helping others and are working hard to be in a position to do so.

 

[dawg44]

I think an achilles tendon repair, a few nerve decompressions, a couple endoscopic plantar fasciotomies, and a bunionectomy would help you to see what podiatry has to offer in terms of surgery. After this, go shadow someone in the office and watch how expertly the podiatric physician seeks to keep his/her patients out of the OR in the first place... or helps them get back to health when they have been to the OR.

AZPOD Rocks

I don't want to start a flipping war, but the bolded statements are completely contradictory. If someone is doing plantar fasciotomies and nerve decompressions regularly, they have no interest in anything but getting someone to the OR and making a buck, or their training is completely wrong and they just don't get the true cause of plantar fascitis, that true tarsal tunnel is exceedingly rare, and that a morton's neuroma that it is probably the most overdiagnosed entity in foot and ankle.

 

[dawg44]

When you hear a DPM complaining about how hard it is to run a successful practice in todays healthcare environment rest assured that there is an MD or DO who shares the same problems.

Not really, I'm not that worried, with the deal I got and the impending shortage. My hospital paid my loans lock stock and barrel so that isn't an issue either.

http://www.merritthawkins.com/pdf/mha2005recruitsurvey.pdf
http://www.merritthawkins.com/pdf/2...opedic surgeon shortage 2006 merritt hawkins"

 

[capo]

When you hear a DPM complaining about how hard it is to run a successful practice in todays healthcare environment rest assured that there is an MD or DO who shares the same problems.

Not really, I'm not that worried, with the deal I got and the impending shortage. My hospital paid my loans lock stock and barrel so that isn't an issue either.

http://www.merritthawkins.com/pdf/mha2005recruitsurvey.pdf
http://www.merritthawkins.com/pdf/2...opedic surgeon shortage 2006 merritt hawkins"

dawg,

Just because you proclaim it not to be you, doesn't mean it doesn't exist. You may or may not be ok but surely there's plenty of real-life examples, that contradict your so-called success story.

 

[flypod]

I don't want to start a flipping war, but the bolded statements are completely contradictory. If someone is doing plantar fasciotomies and nerve decompressions regularly, they have no interest in anything but getting someone to the OR and making a buck, or their training is completely wrong and they just don't get the true cause of plantar fascitis, that true tarsal tunnel is exceedingly rare, and that a morton's neuroma that it is probably the most overdiagnosed entity in foot and ankle.

What? You mean these arent all done by the dozen daily? [sarcasm]

 

[capo]

flypod quit acting like a 10 year old.

 

[flypod]

okay buddy.

 

[AZPOD Rocks]

I don't want to start a flipping war, but the bolded statements are completely contradictory. If someone is doing plantar fasciotomies and nerve decompressions regularly, they have no interest in anything but getting someone to the OR and making a buck, or their training is completely wrong and they just don't get the true cause of plantar fascitis, that true tarsal tunnel is exceedingly rare, and that a morton's neuroma that it is probably the most overdiagnosed entity in foot and ankle.

This is the difficulty in addressing someone who is primarily a surgeon and who does not have a medical practice as well. The above statements are in no regards contradictory. Conservative measures are taken first to keep someone out of the OR and then surgical intervention may be necessary. This is what I was hinting at in my post above. I am sure you are much more well-versed in this policy than I am, however, so I need not comment more on it.

As far as misdiagnosis goes and in response to flypod's comments on this not being real life for a podiatrist to perform such procedures, I must disagree rather pointedly. First, I can choose to see these procedures or similar ones every single week. I know of a number of podiatric surgeons who do these types of surgeries (in fact, several at the Phoenix VA and Phoenix Baptist hospitals). Secondly, when these doctors are seeing a 96% success rate in alleviating pain, how is that misdiagnosis? It isn't. You can criticize it, but the lucrative patient referrals keep pouring in from satisfied patients. This indicates your above statement is erroneous (at least from the AZPOD community standpoint).

Your comments about practice difficulties being more difficult for DPM's than MD's and DO's is, from my experience, completely correct. I have seen many disgruntled DPMs who thought their degrees would automatically secure them employment without them having to work at the business side of things and without having to market themselves. This just isn't the case for the DPM degree. We will have to market ourselves. Similarly, dentists often have the same difficulty, but MDs and DOs don't seem to have the same level of need to market themselves. I went into the profession with this in mind and will market myself all along the way. 🙂 All podiatry students should know this in advance lest there be more disgruntled podiatrists who don't have everything handed to them on a silver platter upon graduation from residency.

AZPOD Rocks

 

[lillytwig]

I am not trolling but I dont believe that the "regulars" here depict accurate information about life after podiatry school to people who are genuinely interested. I've been fed a completely different story from practicing docs, residency directors (SLC VA), and even pod school reps than is being laid out here.

After working in the hospital, I saw a completely different story. My good friend who is a surg pod in SLC tells a different story than all of you do.

I just dont buy the glamourous lifestyle you all portray about being a pod and if I am going to get into this industry, I want the real scoop not some touched-up picture a 2nd year pod student who thinks they know the ins and outs of the business view.

I noticed some members get banned for trolling. Well, go ahead. I could care less. Anytime someone wants a little more than what you're able to offer as a 2nd year student or even brand new pod and has a different opinion or insight, you take their membership away. After all, you wouldnt want someone asking real questions about the industry that cant be glamorized.

Where is the truth on this speciality? I think I get bits and pieces. The real world of being a pod in pvt practice and dealing with all the pertinent issues will be a real eye opener for most.

one word for you, my friend: SATURATION ("sa-ch&-'rA-sh&n") just breaking it down for ya, mr. 2.79. perhaps the reason your buddy is telling a different story is becasue there is a professional plaza on every corner up there. a dentist, a pod, you fill in the other specialties and 9/10 times, you'll be right! there is a huge number of healtcare professionals up there, so i think conditions are less than "glamorous". however, come south a bit, and i tell you what, things pick up. the 2 pods i shadow are VERY surgical. it seems like they handle everything, and they make bank!!! the point is, you make your own career. if you choose to locate to a saturated area such as slc, etc... why would you expect to be special?? most specialties are a dime a dozen up there. hell, even in vegas, some of the plastic surgery institutes are slashing thier surg. fees just to be competative with eachother. anyway, if you like feet and you have half a brain, you won't starve. if you want people to pat you on the ass all the time because you are "special" go to prison. just quit bitchin about things and scolding us about not running medicare claims and thus not knowing about podiatric business. do you own and operate a booming pod practice??

 

[AZPOD Rocks]

one word for you, my friend: SATURATION ("sa-ch&-'rA-sh&n") just breaking it down for ya, mr. 2.79. perhaps the reason your buddy is telling a different story is becasue there is a professional plaza on every corner up there. a dentist, a pod, you fill in the other specialties and 9/10 times, you'll be right! there is a huge number of healtcare professionals up there, so i think conditions are less than glamorous. however, come south a bit, and i tell you what, things pick up. the 2 pods i shadow are VERY surgical. it seems like they handle everything, and they make bank!!! the point is, you make your own career. if you choose to locate to a saturated area such as slc, etc... why would you expect to be special?? most specialties are a dime a dozen up there. hell, even in vegas, some of the plastic surgery institutes are slashing thier surg. fees just to be competative with eachother. anyway, if you like feet and you have half a brain, you won't starve. if you want people to pat you on the ass all the time because you are "special" go to prison. just quit bitchin about things and scoldingus about not running medicare claims and not knowing about podiatric business. do you own and operate a booming pod practice??

I'd hate to be on the lashing post with you holding the lash....

 

[Dr_Feelgood]

I noticed some members get banned for trolling. Well, go ahead. I could care less.

You've notice b/c you've been banned once before. If you are here for debate and conversation, not to bad mouth a profession that you say you are interested in then ask questions and listen to others opinions. Don't ask a question and then tell everyone they are wrong b/c you are the only expert in the area of podiatric medicine.

By the way, I'm in podiatry for the glamorous lifestyle. Pedal ulcers and gas gangrene make my day. I like to bring home the maggots we use to debride non healing wounds. Come on glamorous? Are you drinking???

And I do agree that FF elective surgeries are the bread and butter or any pod's practice; but pods can and do work in the RF and ankle.

In conclusion, if you didn't care if you got banned then why do you keep coming back w/ new IDs??? Please be respectful to the others and the profession.

 

[flypod]

check your IP logs Dr. Feelgood. I've never been here before. it isnt hard to tell.

 

[IlizaRob]

I also know that atleast where I am from (Salt Lake City and Phoenix) pods in private practice dont get called into the ER for achilles, MVAs, fractures, or other complex procedures.

Now this is what Im talking about! Nothing is more entertaining than reading some controversy on SDN. I love to listen to the anonymous "experts" come out of the wood work. I think Ill add my tid-bits to the discussion and direct them to flypod, since thats what everyone else is doing anyway. I have to chuckle at this comment above. Do you have any idea how large phoenix is?? I mean, I really dont think you do. I am also from Phoenix. I know pods that take ER call and do the surgeries you say dont exist for pods in that city. So can I now claim that every pod in Phoenix fixes a calcaneal fracture and achilles rupture? By your standards I can. Just chill out and know that everyone has their own experiences and no single opinion on this forum makes anything a fact.

Just curious, since you have spent so much time at Carl T Hayden, what did Frykberg have to say?

 

[lillytwig]

I'd hate to be on the lashing post with you holding the lash....

 

[flypod]

Now this is what Im talking about! Nothing is more entertaining than reading some controversy on SDN. I love to listen to the anonymous "experts" come out of the wood work. I think Ill add my tid-bits to the discussion and direct them to flypod, since thats what everyone else is doing anyway. I have to chuckle at this comment above. Do you have any idea how large phoenix is?? I mean, I really dont think you do. I am also from Phoenix. I know pods that take ER call and do the surgeries you say dont exist for pods in that city. So can I now claim that every pod in Phoenix fixes a calcaneal fracture and achilles rupture? By your standards I can. Just chill out and know that everyone has their own experiences and no single opinion on this forum makes anything a fact.

Just curious, since you have spent so much time at Carl T Hayden, what did Frykberg have to say?

I worked at the SLC VA with Young. You may know 1 or 2 pods who take call out of the hundreds if not thousands that live in Phoenix.

If an achilles needs work in the ER, 99% go to orthos first. Wake up and smell the thorns. Appreciate podiatry for what it is. Not what is isnt.

 

[IlizaRob]

I worked at the SLC VA with Young. You may know 1 or 2 pods who take call out of the hundreds if not thousands that live in Phoenix.
If an achilles needs work in the ER, 99% go to orthos first. Wake up and smell the thorns. Appreciate podiatry for what it is. Not what is isnt.

First bolded sentence: Maybe you should apply this logic to your own claims

Second bolded sentence: That was just plain dumb. Not even going to dispute it.

 

[Podman]

I worked at the SLC VA with Young. You may know 1 or 2 pods who take call out of the hundreds if not thousands that live in Phoenix.

If an achilles needs work in the ER, 99% go to orthos first. Wake up and smell the thorns. Appreciate podiatry for what it is. Not what is isnt.

Not all pods have the same level of training...maybe now, we're beginning to see that - but that wasn't the case 20,15, or even 10yrs ago...so ofcourse not all of them do these procedures and not all of them should...plus of course, orthopoedic surgeons get their fair share of cases as well - but 99%? I don't know about that - maybe thats the case in phoenix i guess.

What rob said, is precisely what I see in Michigan and Ohio as well...good docs doing great things...although, I will agree that podiatry is not all rear-foot and reconstructive sx - ofcourse, there is fair share of "bread and butter" procedures with bunionectemies, orthotic prescriptions, nails, calluses, ulcers, woundcare, etc. No one is saying we get ALL the surgeries as soon as we step out of the door, but its naiive to think that we don't get our fair share.

What rob was talking about is a true reflection of this newer research-based surgically trained pods (research since we do have to publish at least one article at most 3 yr residencies now). Our residencies now are very demanding and we have alot of requirements in terms of boards, publications, cases, rotations, etc. You came into this forum not knowing our eductaion or training by your own admission, and yet you continue to push your opinion as valid and true. I admire your quest to obtain the full truths about the profession, but before you pass off your experiences or those of your friend's, go look at the successful DPMs and research what makes them successful...research and inquire why DPMs are working in orthopoedic practices and why or how some of them are on Medical School teaching facculty, and even better - why some of them train orthopoedic residents.

Just my 2 cents

 

[dawg44]

I know of a number of podiatric surgeons who do these types of surgeries (in fact, several at the Phoenix VA and Phoenix Baptist hospitals). Secondly, when these doctors are seeing a 96% success rate in alleviating pain, how is that misdiagnosis? It isn't. You can criticize it, but the lucrative patient referrals keep pouring in from satisfied patients. This indicates your above statement is erroneous (at least from the AZPOD community standpoint).

I did enjoy reading your post, but I do have a problem with the 2nd paragraph. 96% success rate. Before I can discuss the success rate, for what surgery and what diagnosis and in what peer reviewed journal are you talking about? That's pretty vague and anyone can quote whatever success rate they want for whatever surgery they want. Our philosophy is that plantar fascia releases are completely overdone and don't treat the real problem, tarsal tunnel is exceedingly rare and is nearly always associated with a space occupying lesion, and that Morton's neuroma is way way overdiagnosed. Heck ,we are very busy extremely busy as well so that doesn't prove anything. Its a 6 month wait for a new patient unless you are a MLB or NFL player, then you get in pronto.

Your comments about practice difficulties being more difficult for DPM's than MD's and DO's is, from my experience, completely correct. I have seen many disgruntled DPMs who thought their degrees would automatically secure them employment without them having to work at the business side of things and without having to market themselves. This just isn't the case for the DPM degree. We will have to market ourselves. Similarly, dentists often have the same difficulty, but MDs and DOs don't seem to have the same level of need to market themselves. I went into the profession with this in mind and will market myself all along the way. All podiatry students should know this in advance lest there be more disgruntled podiatrists who don't have everything handed to them on a silver platter upon graduation from residency.

The path is easier by just looking at the job offers. However, I do think it is important to have some of the qualities and skills that you listed ieven if you are a MD or DO. Particularly if you are moving to a saturated area. If you love the midwest and south though, not so much.

 

[dawg44]

duplicate

 

[jonwill]

I worked at the SLC VA with Young. You may know 1 or 2 pods who take call out of the hundreds if not thousands that live in Phoenix.

If an achilles needs work in the ER, 99% go to orthos first. Wake up and smell the thorns. Appreciate podiatry for what it is. Not what is isnt.

You are speaking from a very limited experience. Basically everywhere I have been, pods take a lot of ER call. The majority of the pods that don't take ER call don't do it because they don't have the training (or they are so rich that they don't care). But the majority of pods coming out today do have it. Believe me, SLC VA DOES NOT represent podiatric medicine!!! And I'd be willing to bet that there are a lot more than one or two pods in Phoenix that take call.

I'm not sure you understand how well podiatrists are trained (compared to orthos).

 

[flypod]

Believe me, SLC VA DOES NOT represent podiatric medicine!!! And I'd be willing to bet that there are a lot more than one or two pods in Phoenix that take call.

Okay, so you tell me to shadow and observe to see the new era of pods. I do and then you tell me the place where I go doesnt represent podiatry once it doesnt depict podiatry how you all want to.

Typical.

 

[jonwill]

Okay, so you tell me to shadow and observe to see the new era of pods. I do and then you tell me the place where I go doesnt represent podiatry once it doesnt depict podiatry how you all want to.

Typical.

I don't recall telling you to shadow anyone. Call it a bad decision on your part. I've got some buddies that have rotated through the program and they weren't impressed. I also know a fair number of residents there. If you would like advice on where to go, just ask. Something tells me that you won't be interested. Afterall, you already know so much about our profession!

The simple fact of the matter is that most podiatric physicians are getting superior training to any other physician out there in foot and ankle surgery. If you don't like it or don't want to believe it, that is your problem. I see it with my own two eyes everyday.

 

[Podman]

Okay, so you tell me to shadow and observe to see the new era of pods. I do and then you tell me the place where I go doesnt represent podiatry once it doesnt depict podiatry how you all want to.

Typical.

I hate to intervene here flypod, but jonwill is a fourth year student on externships so he's at different hospitals across different parts of the country. Therefore, his experience and knowledge regarding the current state of the field is not subjectively based on 1 or 2 DPM's whom you claim as your reference.

It seems that this topic or conversation is taking a circular pattern, and each side is "sticking to their guns" perse. You already established that at least from your experience, limited as it may be (per your own admission on a few occasions) the real life practice is not as "glamorous" as we depicted here to be - which is fine, because again this is a subjective opinion that I have to accept and respect. However, belittling some of our experiences and knowledge about the field and continuing on the offensive, is somewhat disrespectful, I think. As much as I appreciate your inquiries, I would just want to ask you to choose a direction with this conversation - are you going to continue posting comments to refute anything we say just for the sake of making your voice heard? Or will you actually post genuine questions? Or are you going to refrain from contuing a dead-end conversation? I'm just asking you to pick a position and proceed with it, but in a respectful manner please because this is a respectful forum.

Thank you,

Best wishes with your endeavours

 

[oncogene]

Okay, so you tell me to shadow and observe to see the new era of pods. I do and then you tell me the place where I go doesnt represent podiatry once it doesnt depict podiatry how you all want to.

Typical.

flypod,

If you are in Phoenix go and see DR. Zang. He will be more than happy to show you around podiatry in that area. He is very established and actually is a principle in a ortho hospital. I think he can give you a realistic opinion on podiatry in the Phoenix area. They do take call and perform many rearfoot procedures.

oncogene

 

[flypod]

Maybe I will. Gosh!

 

[AZPOD Rocks]

Maybe I will. Gosh!

Is this some Napoleon Dynamite humor creeping in...🙂 ... GOSH!

 

[flypod]

Yep! Now, I gotta couple of concerns to share with you. For one, I am a little worried about your mode of transportation.