Definition of Podiatrist

Podiatrist: A podiatrist is a physician that specializes in the evaluation and treatment of diseases of the foot. The modern specialty of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery requires a minimum of three years of college education and completion of the M.C.A.T. (Medical College Admission Test) before an applicant will be considered for acceptance to one of the seven colleges of Podiatric Medicine.

The training for the student of Podiatric Medicine includes studies in the basic medical sciences (i.e., Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, etc.) emphasizing the health and conditions affecting the lower extremities. Diagnosis and treatment skills, including surgery, are developed in the third and fourth years. A required National Board Examinations test is given prior to their graduation. The graduate receives the degree of D.P.M. or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Many states now require post doctoral training (Residencies, usually one year in hospital) before sitting for the state examination. In addition, continuing medical education credits are required annually to maintain state licensure as well as hospital staff privileges. Two optional Boards recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association are the American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics and Primary Podiatric Care, and the American Board of Podiatric Surgery.