12/12/2024    

RESPONSES/COMMENTS (GUEST EDITORIALS) - PART 2

RE: “I Have Built a Monument More Lasting than Bronze…” (Allen M. Jacobs, DPM)

From: Elliot Udell, DPM

 

Dr. Jacobs points out a similarity between dentistry and podiatry. Both professions have limited licensure. It is important to note major differences between the two professions. I remember sitting on a bench when I was in school having a discussion with Gary Fields, DPM, who was my attending. Gary pointed out to my chagrin, that everything we do as podiatrists can and will be duplicated by another medical professional. I left that discussion with a bellyache. Unlike podiatry, dentists do not have competition from any other healthcare professionals. 

 

Is there any nurse practitioner, MD or PA who can fill a cavity or make a bridge? Another contrast is the marketplace. Not every person is or will ever be a podiatry patient. On the other hand, I don't know of anyone who does not see a dentist from time to time. As Dr. Jacobs points out, podiatry schools may be having problems with enrollment. Does anyone have any data on enrollment in Dental schools?

 

Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY

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