What is a Podiatrist

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), a physician and surgeon who treats the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.

Why Should I See a Podiatrist?

Feet are complex anatomical structures, all-in-one stabilizers, shock absorbers, and propulsion engines that are instrumental to overall health and well-being. They require expert care. Be sure you’re seeing the most qualified health-care professional to treat your feet by looking for the letters “DPM” after his or her name. The DPM means a physician has completed years of rigorous foot and ankle training in podiatric medical school and hospital-based residency training, making him or her uniquely qualified to care for this part of the body. Find an APMA member podiatrist near you.

How Are Podiatrists Trained?

Podiatrists complete four years of training in a podiatric medical school and three years of hospital residency training. Their training is similar to that of other physicians. Podiatrists may go on to complete fellowship training following their residency.

Podiatrists can focus on many fields, including surgery, sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care.

Are Podiatrists Board Certified?

Podiatrists can earn board certification with advanced training, clinical experience, and by ultimately taking an exam. The American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine are the certifying boards for the field.

Scope of Practice for Podiatry in Texas

Statutory Definition of Podiatry
In Texas, the DPM’s statutory scope of practice is defined by §202.001(a)(4), Texas Occupations Code, as follows:
“Podiatry” means the treatment or offer to treat any disease, disorder, physical injury, deformity, or ailment of the human foot by any system or method.  The term includes podiatric medicine.
 Scope of Practice for Podiatry in Texas

Hospital Privileging & Credentialing

Can Podiatrists perform and document History and Physical (H&P) examinations?

Yes, performing H&Ps (i.e., head to toe) for patients undergoing podiatric medical treatment at a Texas-licensed hospital for admission purposes is within the DPM’s scope of practice and licensure pursuant to the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation Podiatry Practice Standards. Podiatric physicians are, by education and training, capable of performing comprehensive H&Ps and evaluating them to arrive at an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Supporting Documentation Available in the Education/Practice Management Section

For additional information, contact the TPMA office.