The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) is a professional medical organization representing Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (podiatrists) within the United States. The organization was founded in 1959 and is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. Approximately 80% of podiatrists in the US are members of the APMA. Under the APMA are 53 component societies in individual states and other jurisdictions, as well as 21 affiliated and related societies. Doctors of Podiatric Medicine are physicians and surgeons who practice on the lower extremities, primarily on the foot,ankle and lower leg. 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 of 2–3 years.

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 approve residency programs and continuing medical education programs. The Council recognizes certifying boards within podiatric medicine which meet its standards..

History

• 1912: Establishment of the National Association of Chiropodists, progenitor to the American Podiatric Medical Association.

• 1920: The National Association of Chiropodists reorganized its internal structure.

• Post-World War II: The National Association of Chiropodists worked to standardize degrees, terminology, and training.

• 1957: Renaming to American Podiatry Association (APA).

• 1960s: APA seeks reform of education in the field. The APA relocated to Chevy Chase Circle in Washington, DC.

• 1984: Renaming American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

• 1987: APMA relocated to Bethesda, MD.

• 2011: APMA launches Today's Podiatrist campaign to the public.

Today's Podiatrist Campaign

Today’s Podiatrist is the APMA’s campaign to increase awareness about the benefits of podiatry among medical professionals, the general public, and students. Although many people know that foot health is connected to overall health, feet are often the furthest things from their minds. It is important that people pay attention to their feet and get the care they need. Podiatrists are physicians, surgeons, and specialists who are highly trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Podiatrists complete more than seven years of rigorous foot and ankle training in podiatric medical school (4 years of podiatric medical school and 3 years of residency) and are uniquely qualified to care for this part of the body. Explore www.TodaysPodiatrist.com and meet your feet today. To locate a podiatrist near you, visit www.todayspodiatrist.com/resources/find-a-podiatrist.

External links

• American Podiatric Medical Association
• Today's Podiatrist