How to Evaluate Podiatrist Doctors
Podiatrists -- or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine -- diagnose and treat conditions and disorders of the lower leg, foot and ankle. Podiatrists treat foot and ankle injuries, deformities, infections, diabetic foot complaints, bunions, heel spurs, corns, arch problems, ingrown toenails and more. Foot care is important for individuals of all ages levels who are active as well as those with conditions that can affect the feet -- including diabetes. Prior to choosing a podiatrists, there are ways to evaluate their skill level and bedside manners.
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Instructions
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Evaluate a podiatrist's education and training credentials. Search the website of the hospital a podiatrist is affiliated with. You should find a brief biography of the podiatrist that includes education, residency, fellowships and other affiliations. Podiatrists need an undergraduate education, followed by attendance at a podiatric medical program, completion of residency program and passing scores on state examinations.
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Check to see if a podiatrist is board certified. Check with the American Board of Podiatric Surgeons or the American Board of Podiatric Orthopaedics and Primary Podiatric Medicine. Board certifications indicate that a podiatrist has demonstrated a interest and above average achievement in a particular area of podiatry -- for example trauma or diabetic care.
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Visit a rate a doctor website. Websites -- including RateMDs.com -- allow patients to rate their doctors and leave comments. You can rate podiatrists and read reviews based on professionalism, timeliness, wait time and bedside manners.
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Receive a referral. Talk to your primary care doctor about a referral. Your primary care doctor is likely to have podiatrists they typically refer patients to.
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Ask friends and family. If you know of individuals who have visited with podiatrists, ask for their opinion.
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