| The
American Podiatric Medical Association is the premier
professional organization representing the nation's Doctors
of Podiatric Medicine (podiatrists). APMA began in 1912 as
the National Association of Chiropodists. However, it traces
its roots to the New York Pedic Society, which began in
1895.
APMA represents approximately 80 percent of the
podiatrists in the country. Within APMA's umbrella of
organizations are 53 component societies in states and other
jurisdictions, as well as 22 affiliated and related
societies.
APMA's Council on Podiatric Medical Education is the body
designated by the US Department of Education to accredit the
nation's podiatric medical schools. In addition, the Council
has the responsibility to accredit residency programs and
continuing medical education programs. The Council
recognizes certifying boards within podiatric medicine which
meet its standards.
APMA's Fund For Podiatric Medical Education is a
charitable organization dedicated to providing scholarships
for podiatric medical students. Its Foot Health Foundation
of America is a charitable/educational organization which is
dedicated to providing information on foot health issues to
the public and to promoting better foot health.
APMA provides foot health information to the public in a
number of ways, including through its toll free number,
l-800-FOOTCARE. There are more than three dozen
different foot health brochures available at no charge. APMA
has also initiated an Internet web site to provide
information to the public
(http://www.apma.org).
Doctors of Podiatric Medicine are physicians and surgeons
who practice on the lower extremities, primarily on feet and
ankles. The preparatory education of most DPMs includes four
years of undergraduate work, followed by four years in an
accredited
podiatric medical
school, followed by a residency.
APMA's national headquarters is in Bethesda, Maryland.
Its staff of 57 professionals are dedicated to promoting
foot and ankle health, to member service, and to
professional excellence. |