Podiatry is a profession dedicated to the complete care of the
feet. Most Doctors of Podiatry, or podiatrists, treat many types of
foot problems, but some specialize in foot surgery or other
treatments for congenital defects, diseases and injuries of the
bones and joints of the foot. A podiatrist can also specialize in
podopediatrics (foot ailments of children) or in podogeriatrics
(foot ailments of the elderly). Like other health professionals,
the podiatrist has the responsibility for referring patients to
other practitioners (usually physicians) when foot problems are
symptoms of other health disorders, such as diabetes and heart
disease.
Students interested in podiatry should obtain their BS, although
the New York College of Podiatric
Medicine does accept mature and well qualified students after
the completion of 90 credits. Students who apply to Schools of
Podiatry take the Medical College
Admissions Test (MCAT) exam. Applications to Schools of
Podiatry must be made through the American Association of Podiatric
Medicine Application Service (AACPMAS).
Note that applicants have until April 1st of the year in which
they wish to enter to apply. Podiatry schools also will accept
spring MCAT scores in evaluating students for fall admission.