Board Certification
The American Board of Podiatric Surgery in an organization
for the purpose of certifying podiatric surgeons found to be qualified
after meeting rigorous requirements. ABPS is recognized by the American
Podiatric Medical Association. The major objective of ABPS is to protect
and improve the health and welfare of the public by the advancement
of the art and science of podiatric surgery.
A podiatric surgeon certified by the American
Board of Podiatric Surgery has successfully completed an extensive credentialing
and examination process. The doctor had to submit, for review, many
different types of surgical cases and procedures that were performed
in a clinical setting. This clinical experience (surgical training)
requirement assures that your board certified podiatric surgeon brings
significant experience to the care of your feet. In addition, the written
and oral examinations that must be successfully completed by a podiatric
physician before attaining board certification by the ABPS require a
demonstration of the applicant’s comprehensive knowledge, experience
and skill in podiatric surgery. The knowledge and skill your physician
has demonstrated includes: the diagnosis of general medical problems
and surgical management of foot diseases, deformities, and trauma of
the foot, ankle, leg, and related structures.
Doctors who are board certified are referred
to as “diplomats”. ABPS diplomats are required to participate
in continuing education in subject areas relevant to the practice of
podiatric medicine and surgery. Additionally, every 10 years a diplomat
must take and examination to evaluate their current level of knowledge.