|
|
|
|
|
Search
09/13/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION)
RE: APMA Rejects ACGME Task Force
From: Lee C. Rogers, DPM
It is very disheartening to hear that the APMA has rejected the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) invitation to have a discussion about accrediting podiatry residencies and fellowships as a "specialty of medicine." There are so many possible benefits in becoming accredited with ACGME, recognized as the gold standard in medicine which accredits all MD and DO specialty training.
The DOs joined ACGME in 2014, and in the decade following, there was an increase in DO students by 70% and their profession grew by 81%. Yes, there are still many questions, but refusing to participate in the due diligence process to get the questions answered does not serve the profession well. This should be brought to the House of Delegates to decide.
Lee C. Rogers, DPM, San Antonio, TX
Other messages in this thread:
09/17/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
Dr. Bisbee is an expert at the hidden ball trick and passing responsibility for the decision to tell ACGME that the podiatry profession was not interested in having their residencies accredited by the ACGME of medical accreditation organizations. In the second paragraph of her letter, she says, “In recent weeks we had meetings with many stakeholders within the profession to discuss the pros and cons of participating in an exploratory process with ACGME.”
First, the word “secret” was omitted between the word “had” and the word “meetings” in the quoted sentence. Second, it’s amazing how the hoi polloi of this profession are conveniently forgotten concerning what is going on. Mushroom theory of leadership again. Third, ACGME’s offer is an exploratory look/see at the educational process involved in accreditation of our own programs. It’s not like we are turning over Rome to...
Editor's note: Dr. Tomczak's extended-length letter can be read here.
09/17/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: James DiResta, DPM, MPH
If podiatry is ever to gain parity with MD/DO colleagues, we are going to need comparable educational training and one very important component to that end is recognition of our residency programs by ACGME. APMA could argue that this is putting the cart before the horse but the importance of this discussion by APMA representative stakeholders rejecting the ACGME invitation is a lost opportunity. The "laser focus" excuse given is just simply absurd.
Where the heck are the leadership's priorities? Are you going to wait until HOD meets again next year? I thought we had an alternative pathway when issues of this magnitude needed to be decided outside of that timeline.
James DiResta, DPM, MPH, Newburyport, MA
09/16/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Andrew J. Meyr, DPM
Well it's Groundhog Day...again. Another year and apparently we're in for Dr. Rogers leading another disruptive charge at the APMA HOD and another thinly veiled attempt to undermine the CPME.
One of the things that Dr. Rogers didn't disclose in his post is that not only does the APMA Board of Trustees have reservations about his most recent strategy...and make no mistake he was the driving force behind this...but also AACPM, COTH, CPME, ABFAS, ACFAS and several state societies. These are groups that perform due diligence and try to consider all potential ramifications of decisions for their members and the profession, and don't simply act on superficial reactionary public perception. I would encourage PM News readers to review the actual statements from APMA and CPME on the topic, instead of only Dr. Rogers' "Rejects" attempted...
Editor's note: Dr. Meyr's extended-length letter can be read here.
09/16/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Edward F. Szabo, DPM
On the surface, it is disheartening to hear that the APMA has rejected the ACGME's offer to serve as the credentialing body for graduate (residency) training in podiatry. I have extensive ACGME experience and think they would preserve the integrity of our training and profession.
It is clear to many of us and any potential applicants that do a minimal amount of research that our profession has problems with graduate training standards and post-graduate credentialing. This directly impacts the ability or financial stability once you begin practice. There are too many residencies not providing adequate surgical exposure. There are too many post-graduate credentialing bodies (Boards). ACGME would help create a recognized and unified standard within the profession.
I recognize that the devil is in the details, and am certain Dr. DeHeer and the APMA want what is best for the profession. Still, I would like to know why the ACGME offer was rejected, when it seems like an obvious step forward for the profession.
Edward F. Szabo, DPM, Evans, GA
09/16/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Brook Bisbee, DPM
This summer, APMA became aware that the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has interest in exploring accreditation of training programs outside allopathic and osteopathic medicine. This interest is part of ACGME’s business plan to explore extending their accreditation programs to a variety of other healthcare professions.
After an initial discussion with ACGME, APMA shared this information with the leadership of its component organizations and with the leadership of other large podiatric organizations with a stake in residency training including CPME, AACPM, COTH, ABPM, ABFAS, and ACFAS. In recent weeks, we held meetings with many key stakeholders within the profession to discuss the pros and cons of participating in an exploratory process with ACGME. We also gathered written feedback from stakeholders. The feedback was shared with our Board...
Editor's note: Dr. Bisbee's extended-length can be read here
09/15/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Frank Louis Lepore, DPM, MBA
I am deeply disappointed and angered by the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) decision not to engage in dialogue with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This choice does not serve the best interests of the podiatric community and risks undermining years of strategic efforts in gaining parity and Board unification of podiatry.
Our profession has worked diligently to achieve parity with our MD and DO colleagues—working with their organization on common ground in the interest of our professions, expanding applicant pools to podiatric medical schools, investing in targeted marketing, and advocating for broader recognition. These initiatives were designed to elevate the visibility and credibility of podiatric medicine. Without collaboration with ACGME, these resources may be better spent elsewhere or may not achieve the intended return on...
Editor's note: Dr. Lepore's extended-length letter can be read here.
09/15/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
ACGME, the accreditation agency for MD and DO residencies and fellowships has invited podiatry into their fold and become the accreditors rather than CPME. Accreditation by ACGME would mean podiatry is officially a specialty of medicine, just like orthopedics or internal medicine. APMA has voted not to accept the ACGME invitation.
When I attended OCPM, we had the opportunity to enjoy a few high quality MD instructors from Case Western Reserve University. One of them was an anesthesiologist who taught pharmacology to the medical students at Case. He constantly munched on Sen-Sen breath mints and challenged anyone who wanted to play racquetball for a dollar a point. I took the dare and lost my weekly allowance. We had a couple of beers after the game and he told me that after WWII, Case offered to assimilate OCPM into the...
Editor's note: Dr. Tomczak's extended-length letter can be read here.
08/27/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1C
From: Robert Boudreau, DPM
I was blessed to work in Clifford McEntire’s office as an orthotic technician during my undergraduate studies. He taught me not only how to fabricate orthotics, but the biomechanical principles behind them. It was during this part-time job that I fell In love with the profession of podiatry. As a member of the CCPM Class of 1983, we were privileged to sit at the feet of Merlin Root, John Weed, Chris Smith, Ron Valmassey, Bill Sanner, and others. As such, I feel our biomechanical instruction was excellent. I used their teaching on a daily basis, incorporating it both with and without surgery, for 39 years until my retirement.
I have a few questions: How many practitioners actually watch their patients walk and evaluate their gait before/after surgery? Before/after orthotic dispensing? How many residencies are either specifically dedicated to biomechanics or require rotations in biomechanics, and if so, who is doing the training? As a profession, we stress forefoot, rearfoot, and ankle surgery, but are we equally stressing how orthotics can be utilized peri-operatively?
As a profession, I feel we should stress our biomechanical expertise, the area that truly sets us apart from our orthopedic counterparts.
Robert Boudreau, DPM (Retired), Tyler, TX
08/27/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Ben Pearl, DPM
Paul, I am grateful for the many things you have written regarding DME in this and other forums. Regarding there being no "blue ribbon panel" to address the biomechanics situation, I offer that you should spread the word for the virtual biomechanics summit I have offered to students free for the past 4 years. Our next virtual summit with the AAPSM will be Superbowl weekend. I choose to do what I can rather than looking at what has not been done.
Ben Pearl, DPM, Arlington, VA
08/27/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM
Who was behind CPME's decision to lower the biomechanics requirements in our residency? I'd like to hear from those long-serving APMA delegates on this issue. I want to know who is driving this trainwreck! Is it PFA?
Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL
08/26/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Howard Dananberg, DPM
I’ve been following the thread on how podiatry is losing its expertise in biomechanics. I understand the allure of surgery, but with the pathetic insurance reimbursements, stress, and periodic complications that a surgical practice creates, it’s surprising that designing and dispensing custom foot orthotics doesn’t have greater acceptance. It can be financially rewarding, and patients love them and the practitioners who provide them.
When combined with lower extremity manipulation techniques, many long-term issues can spontaneously resolve as well. And, thinking through biomechanical issues can be a very satisfying academic endeavor and rewarding to both patient and doctor. Think about attending the Richard O. Schuster seminar on October 24 and 26 at NYCPM in New York. Well worth it.
Howard Dananberg, DPM, Stowe, VT
08/26/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
from: Douglas Richie, DPM
I fully agree with the observations made by Dr. Kirby regarding the demise of biomechanics in the podiatric profession. The push by leaders in our profession to have podiatric education mirror allopathic medical schools has eliminated the unique advantage that podiatrists previously had in evaluating and treating all foot and ankle pathologies. The APMA Vision 21st Century influenced all of the podiatric medical schools to substantially reduce all formal courses in biomechanics which were replaced by general medicine courses.
In 2022, the Council on Podiatric Medical Education passed CPME 320 which reduced the number of biomechanics cases in podiatric residency by thirty percent. Without adequate biomechanics training, podiatric physicians can only wish to be as good, but not better than our orthopedic colleagues.
Douglas Richie, DPM, Long Beach, CA
08/25/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM
Having written on this subject many times here, it seems that despite some efforts by the schools industry and others, not much has changed. The question is not so much who is at fault, but who is responsible for taking charge of this situation and coming up with a remedy. Is it industry, the schools, CPME, residency directors, attendings hiring new practitioners out of residency, or APMA, ACFAS, ABPM, etc.? Or is it a combination of all of the above?
To repeat the same old story and a reflection of the issue(s):
Karen Langone, Jeffrey Ross, I, and others less than a decade ago presented a three-hour symposium on "Advanced Biomechanics for the 21st Century" at a past APMA meeting. Fewer than 50 attendees out of the thousand at the APMA meeting attended this...
Editor's note: Dr. Kesselman's extended-length letter can be read here.
08/25/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Kevin Kirby, DPM
Dr. Ribotsky and the others who have responded to his post have noted a decrease in knowledge and technical skills in foot and lower extremity biomechanics within the podiatry profession. After 40 years of private practice and having trained numerous surgical residents in biomechanics and foot orthosis therapy over a 25-year period from the Kaiser Sacramento residency program, I have also noted that there has been a gradual lessening of biomechanical skills and knowledge in our more recently trained podiatrists. In fact, I have commented on this same fact multiple times here on PM News over the past decade or more.
What I find interesting is that during my podiatry school years from 1979 to 1983 at the California College of Podiatric Medicine, many of our professors commonly made comments tending to emphasize the belief that podiatric surgeons were better than orthopedic surgeons simply because of their biomechanical knowledge. In fact, it seemed to be commonly believed among the podiatry profession during the 1980s and 1990s that the one thing that set podiatry apart from our orthopedic surgery colleagues was that podiatrists were more educated on foot and lower extremity biomechanics and, as such, could make better surgical...
Editor's note: Dr. Kirby's extended-length letter can be read here.
08/22/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD, Kathleen Neuhoff, DPM
Considering the contemporary meanings of "tweak," I sincerely hope we don't tweak anymore. But this is an example of how out of touch we can become. They have a new vocabulary and set of social norms.
Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD, Columbus, OH
Sadly, I agree with the previous authors. I used to tell patients that the reason they had better results with foot surgery than their friends who went to an orthopod was not because podiatrists were better surgeons but that podiatrists did not just discharge them after surgery. We made them orthotics, recommended appropriate footgear, and followed up until they were sure their problems were resolved.
That is no longer the case with many (most) podiatrists. Some will send them to me or another “old timer” for follow-up care, but many discharge them ASAP just like the orthopods. We might as well become MDs or DOs. We are no longer better at total foot care than they are.
Kathleen Neuhoff, DPM, South Bend, IN
08/22/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM
Our expertise in biomechanics enables us to perform more effective surgeries to relieve pain and improve foot function. It is that same expertise that allows us to create orthotics to further enhance the function of the foot and ankle.
While some of you scan feet, just like chiropractors and physical therapists do, I still use plaster because they can't master the technique. And, no, my assistant does not do it!
Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL
08/05/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: David Secord, DPM
I have a niece, whose husband is a journeyman electrician. He is now 30 years of age, is the head of his crew of 15 and they do large, industrial wiring projects. The last time I talked to him, he let me know that he makes about $250,000 a year, after spending six months in school to obtain his certification. His crew has done projects around the world, with the accommodations picked up by the client.
I really like what I do for a living but have to admit that the preponderance of individuals spending four years in a University setting to obtain a degree in underwater basket weaving or some such other waste of time should really look at what plumbers, electricians, welders, pipe fitters and tool makers are earning. With that earnings potential, without massive school debt, and zero chance of malpractice actions, these occupations are also a threat to our professional longevity. Searching for warm bodies to occupy seats at our schools, as opposed to those with a drive and thirst to help people and serve the profession is not the way to go. Just my opinion.
David Secord, DPM, McAllen, TX
08/05/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
From: H. David Gottlieb, DPM
The only workable solution to the DPM v. MD degree debate that I can see is based on what many of our colleagues have done. All 11 podiatry colleges should work out an agreement with an off-shore medical college such that all graduates can receive a DPM/MD/DO degree. If a graduate wants to practice as an MD/DO, they will sit for all the appropriate exams, and if they pass, apply for a medical residency; they can then receive a license in their state of choice as an MD/DO.
If they wish to practice as both an MD/DO and a DPM, well, they will do both and go through both processes to be licensed as both an MD/DO and as a DPM. Merely having an MD/DO or DPM degree does not mean that one can practice as one. You still need the appropriate license. Of course, the MD/DO license would allow one to practice foot care as a podiatrist does based on the DPM training as well as that upper extremity and treat warts, or whatever.
I believe that this model would allow for a greater pool of applicants. It would also end the incessant perennial debate that one must scroll through here just to find some new bit of opinion or tidbit of news.
H. David Gottlieb, DPM, Baltimore, MD
08/04/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1A
RE: Health Professions Scholarship Program (Evan Meltzer, DPM)
From: Joe Agostinelli, DPM
Actually, military podiatrists are NOT members of the Medical Corps in the armed forces. USAF podiatrists are in the Biomedical Services with all the other non-physician healthcare providers except dentists (who have their own Dental Corps). The U.S. Navy and U.S. Army podiatrists are in the Medical Services Corps.
The addition of podiatrists into the Medical Corps has been an ongoing concern since the beginnings of podiatrists in the military. That is why a degree change is the only way for a DPM to be commissioned into the Medical Corps. This issue is extremely important as to the acceptance of DPMs as physicians.
Joe Agostinelli, DPM, Colonel, USAF (Retired). Daytona Beach, FL
08/04/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) -PART 1B
From: Robert Boudreau, DPM
A neurosurgeon woke one morning to find around 6” of water flooding his basement. He called the local plumber and told him what was happening, and the plumber said he’d be right over. When he arrived, the neurosurgeon led him to the basement. Donning his waders, the plumber stepped into the water. Leaning over, he felt around for a few minutes, pulled the drain plug, and said, “There you go, it’s fixed”. “How much do I owe you?” The plumber said, “That’ll be $400, cash, check, or credit card”. “Wow, I’m a neurosurgeon and I don’t make that kinda money!” The plumber smiled and said, “Neither did I when I was a neurosurgeon!”
Robert Boudreau, DPM, Tyler, TX
08/01/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 3B
From Gary S Smith, DPM
Podiatrists have not gotten a raise from Medicare, Medicaid, or commercial insurance since 1998. Podiatry school tuition has gone up 300% over that same time period. Maybe that's the issue and not limits on loans?
Gary S Smith, DPM, Bradford, PA
08/01/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 3A
From: Jon Purdy, DPM
This is a case of swallowing the bitter pill to remedy the problem. Educational institutions can provide loans, either themselves or by partnering with private banks to secure loans. The main point of my post was to point out that a government loan is the worst type of loan one can get. These loans have become a financial burden on our population. Private institutions will gladly loan money to safe bets such as medical school. They most likely will not loan a person $200,000 for a degree in gender studies.
I have a sneaking suspicion, if one cannot obtain a loan for a dead-end degree or a degree that has a traditionally high default rate, the price of education may drop as quickly as the applicants unable to fund those high dollar party years.
Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA
08/01/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 2
RE: Trade School vs. Medical School
From: Steven Finer, DPM
I was listening to Doctors Radio the other day. It was a segment on emergency medicine. This physician was presenting a case when he suddenly diverted to a new subject. He was having a lot of work done to his house and complained about the outrageous bills from plumbers and electricians. He suggested that parents send their kids to trade school.
Steven Finer, DPM, Philadelphia, PA
08/01/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1
RE: Health Professions Scholarship Program
From: Evan F. Meltzer, DPM
I became aware of the significant cost of a podiatric medical education while working with residents at the Audie Murphy VAMC in San Antonio, Texas. When I graduated from PCPM/Temple in 1977, I never owed the school any money for my four years there, and I paid nothing for my textbooks or equipment. How did I do this?
I was very fortunate to be awarded an Army Health Professions Scholarship (look up HPSP on your search tool) that paid for my tuition, books, and equipment for my four years at Temple. In addition, I was also paid a monthly stipend for living expenses.
What’s the catch? I repaid my debt by serving as an...
Editor's note: Dr. Meltzer's extended-length letter can be read here.
07/21/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRIC MEDICAL EDUCATION) - PART 1B
From: Bret M. Ribotsky, DPM
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere congratulations on Dr. Block’s outstanding work with PM News these 8,000 issues. His dedication to journalistic excellence has not gone unnoticed, and I felt compelled to acknowledge the remarkable integrity he brings to our profession.
In an era where media landscapes are often polarized and one-dimensional, Dr. Block’s commitment to presenting multiple perspectives on complex issues stands as a beacon of responsible journalism. His willingness to explore various sides of the same story demonstrates a level of intellectual honesty that is both refreshing and essential for informed podiatric discourse. This balanced approach allows PM News’ audience to form their own well-rounded opinions rather than being fed a singular narrative.
Dr. Block’s moral standards and unwavering integrity shine through in every piece he...
Editor's note: Dr. Ribotsky's extended-length letter can be read here.
|
| |
|
|
|
