In this episode of the Podiatry Today Podcasts, host Dr. Jennifer Spector speaks with Shital Sharma, DPM, on the evolving role of podiatry in public health—and why the profession is more integral than ever to population health.

Dr. Sharma shares insights from her experience in safety-net hospital systems and underserved communities, highlighting how podiatrists impact far more than foot and ankle conditions. From limb salvage and amputation prevention to addressing social determinants of health, podiatrists play a critical role in keeping patients mobile, employed, and living longer, healthier lives.

The conversation explores practical strategies for integrating public health principles into everyday practice, including:

Advocating for patients within resource-limited systems

Navigating financial and administrative barriers to care

Understanding the business case for advanced therapies

Managing trauma and surgical patients through a public health lens

Preparing residents and early-career podiatrists for real-world system challenges

Dr. Sharma also discusses how podiatrists can serve as frontline identifiers of systemic disease and key connectors within interdisciplinary care teams.

Whether you're in private practice, hospital-based care, or training, this episode offers actionable insights on expanding your impact beyond the clinic.

Guest: Shital Sharma, DPM

Host: Jennifer Spector, DPM

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