Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
All states and the District of Columbia require a license for the practice of podiatric medicine. Each defines its own licensing requirements. Generally, the applicant must be a graduate of an accredited college of podiatric medicine and pass written and oral examinations. Twentyfive states also require completion of an accredited residency program. Some states permit applicants to substitute the examination of the National Board of Podiatric Examiners, given in the second and fourth years of podiatric medical college, for part or all of the written state examination. Certain states grant reciprocity to podiatrists who are licensed in another state. Thirtyone states require continuing education for licensure renewal.

Job Outlook:
Employment of podiatrists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. There will be approximately 20,000 podiatrists by 2005. More people will turn to podiatrists for foot care as the elderly population grows. The elderly have more years of wear and tear on their feet and lower legs than most younger people, so they are more prone to foot ailments.

Sources of Additional Information:

For information on podiatric medicine as a career, contact: