What Podiatrists Do:

• Specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot, ankle, and lower leg disorders.

• Perform physical exams, order tests, prescribe medicine, perform surgery, and prescribe medical devices like orthotics.

• Treat a wide array of conditions, from common issues to complex problems and diabetic foot issues.

Scope of Practice in Florida:

• Provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, including surgical and non-surgical treatments.

• Offer specialized care for diabetic, pediatric, and geriatric patients.

• Handle sports-related injuries, provide orthotic/prosthetic services, and offer wound care.

Training & Qualifications:

• Hold a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree, from a four-year program at a college of podiatric medicine.

• Complete a three-year residency; some pursue further fellowship training.

• Qualified to diagnose and treat all foot issues, including surgery.

Importance of Podiatric Care:

• Foot problems affect all ages, impacting mobility and overall health.

• Prevent complications for those with diabetes and arthritis.

• Early intervention prevents more serious health issues.

Where They Work:

• Private practices, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes.

• City Health Departments, VA Hospitals, and the U.S. Public Health Service.

For your next step, consider exploring the specific locations of the practices mentioned in the sources to see if there are any patterns or gaps in service coverage.