Top 10 Podiatrist Certifications

Certifications are important for podiatrists in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and excellence. Certifications provide employers and patients with assurance that the podiatrist has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively treat foot and ankle problems. They also indicate that the podiatrist is up-to-date on the latest advancements in foot care, which can help them provide better patient care. Lastly, certifications can also open up new opportunities for podiatrists, such as teaching positions or research projects.

This article reviews the top certifications for Podiatrists and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Podiatrist Certifications?

Podiatrist certification is a professional credential that recognizes the completion of advanced training and experience in the field of podiatry. This certification is usually granted by a professional organization or regulatory body after an individual has met certain educational, clinical, and/or examination requirements.

Podiatrist certification demonstrates to potential employers, patients, and colleagues that the certified podiatrist has met established standards for knowledge and proficiency in the profession. It also serves as recognition of the individual's commitment to lifelong learning and professionalism. With this certification, a podiatrist may be eligible for more advanced positions within their field or be able to provide additional services to their patients.

In addition, having a podiatrist certification can help an individual stand out from other job seekers in the field due to their higher level of expertise. Furthermore, since certifications are often required for reimbursement by insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare, it can also open up new opportunities for practice reimbursement and payment from these sources. Finally, because certifications often require continuing education credits to maintain active status, they help ensure that practitioners stay up-to-date with current developments within the field.

Pro tip: Before seeing a podiatrist, make sure they have the proper certification. Look for credentials such as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) or a Certified Pedorthist (CPed). These certifications indicate that the practitioner has met the necessary standards of training and experience needed to provide quality care.

Related: What does a Podiatrist do?

Top 10 Podiatrist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Podiatrists today.

1. Board Certification in Podiatric Surgery (ABPS)

Board Certification in Podiatric Surgery (ABPS) is a certification program offered by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery (ABPS). It is designed to recognize qualified podiatrists who have completed advanced training and demonstrated their commitment to excellence in the field of podiatric surgery. The ABPS certification process involves passing a comprehensive written and oral examination, as well as completing an approved residency program.

In order to become board certified, a candidate must first complete an accredited residency program in podiatric surgery. This typically takes three years to complete, although some programs may require more or less time depending on the individual’s educational background and experience. During this time, candidates will receive extensive education and training in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including diagnosis, treatment planning, surgical skills, wound care management, and postoperative care.

Once the residency has been completed successfully, candidates can apply for board certification with the ABPS. The application process includes submitting documentation of successful completion of the residency program along with other required documents such as letters of recommendation from faculty members or employers. Candidates must also submit an application fee which varies depending on the type of certification sought.

After all documents have been submitted and reviewed by the ABPS board members, applicants will be invited to take both a written and oral examination which cover all aspects of podiatric surgery including anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, radiology and clinical practice. Upon successful completion of these exams and submission of any additional required paperwork such as medical records or case studies demonstrating competency in podiatric surgery practices, applicants will be awarded their board certification status from the ABPS.

The cost for board certification through the ABPS varies depending on several factors such as residency length and type of certification sought but can range anywhere from $1,000 - $3,000 USD.

2. Board Certification in Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABCFAS)

Board Certification in Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABCFAS) is a voluntary certification process that recognizes the highest level of achievement in the specialty of foot and ankle surgery. It is administered by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS).

To become board certified, a doctor must complete an accredited residency program, pass an oral and written exam, and demonstrate proficiency in surgical procedures. The entire process typically takes three to four years to complete.

The first step to becoming board certified is to apply for certification through ABFAS. The application fee is $1,500. Once approved, applicants are required to take a written exam within two years of submitting their application. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, pathology, diagnosis, treatment options, and surgical techniques. After passing the written exam, applicants must take an oral examination that tests their knowledge on more advanced topics related to foot and ankle surgery.

Once both exams have been completed successfully, applicants are eligible for board certification. The total cost for the entire process can range from $3,000-$5,000 depending on additional fees such as travel expenses or study materials purchased during preparation for the exams.

3. Advanced Wound Care Certification (AWCC)

Advanced Wound Care Certification (AWCC) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of healthcare professionals in the field of wound care. The certification is offered by the American Board of Wound Management, an independent certifying body dedicated to promoting excellence in wound care.

The AWCC program requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as wound assessment and management, infection control, nutrition, pharmacology, and patient education. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and can take up to four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the AWCC certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field of wound care and must have completed an approved course in advanced wound care. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their current professional license or certification from a recognized board or agency.

The cost for taking the AWCC exam is $375 for non-members and $275 for members of the American Board of Wound Management. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official Advanced Wound Care Certification certificate and be listed on the ABWM website as an AWCC certified professional.

4. Diabetic Limb Salvage Certification (DLS)

Diabetic Limb Salvage Certification (DLS) is a professional certification program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively treat and manage diabetic limb salvage. The program was created by the American Society of Diabetic Limb Salvage (ASDLS), an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the field of diabetic limb salvage.

The DLS certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive online course that covers topics such as wound care, infection control, vascular assessment, imaging techniques, surgical techniques, and patient education. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and includes a final exam. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, applicants are awarded their DLS certification.

The cost of obtaining DLS certification varies depending on the provider offering the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 USD.

In order to get certified in DLS, applicants must first register for the program through the ASDLS website or through an accredited provider. Applicants will then be provided with access to the online course material and must successfully complete all requirements within 6 months of registration in order to receive their certificate.

5. American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry (ABMSP)

The American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry (ABMSP) is an organization that provides certification to podiatrists who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field. The ABMSP was established in 1986 and is recognized as the premier certifying body for podiatric medicine. It is the only certifying board for podiatry recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA).

The process of obtaining ABMSP certification involves completing a rigorous application process, passing a comprehensive written examination, and successfully completing a clinical skills assessment. The entire process typically takes two to three years to complete.

In order to apply for ABMSP certification, applicants must first be licensed as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) and must have completed an accredited residency program. Additionally, applicants must meet all other requirements set forth by the ABMSP such as having at least two years of post-residency experience or having completed an approved fellowship program.

The cost of applying for ABMSP certification varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, the cost includes application fees, exam fees, and any additional fees associated with completing required courses or workshops. In addition, applicants may also need to pay for travel expenses related to attending workshops or conferences associated with their certification process.

6. Certified Pedorthist (C.Ped.)

A Certified Pedorthist (C.Ped.) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the design, manufacture, and fitting of custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and other supportive devices for the lower limbs and feet. C.Peds are trained to assess a patient’s gait, foot structure, and range of motion to determine the best course of treatment. They also provide advice on how to reduce or prevent foot-related injuries.

To become a Certified Pedorthist (C.Ped.), applicants must complete an accredited pedorthic education program as well as pass a comprehensive written exam administered by the Board for Certification in Pedorthics (BCP). The BCP is recognized by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) as an approved provider of certification in pedorthics.

The educational program typically takes two years to complete and includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experience. Upon successful completion of the program, students may apply to take the BCP examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology; biomechanics; materials science; medical conditions affecting the feet; assessment techniques; orthotic design; fabrication methods; fitting procedures; and business practices related to pedorthics.

The cost for taking the BCP examination varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD. Once certified, C.Peds must maintain their credentials through continuing education courses every two years in order to remain active in their field.

7. Certified Wound Specialist Physician (CWSP)

Certified Wound Specialist Physician (CWSP) is a certification program offered by the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of physicians who specialize in wound management. The CWSP designation is awarded to physicians who demonstrate expertise in wound care through successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CWSP certification. The first step is to become an ABWM Diplomate, which requires passing an online exam and completing a minimum of 100 hours of continuing medical education (CME) in wound management within the past five years. After becoming an ABWM Diplomate, applicants must then pass the CWSP Examination, which covers topics such as wound assessment and evaluation, wound healing principles, debridement techniques, infection control strategies, nutrition support for wounds, and patient management.

The cost for obtaining the CWSP certification varies depending on the applicant's individual situation. The initial fee for becoming an ABWM Diplomate is $500 plus any applicable CME fees. The fee for taking the CWSP Examination is $1,000 plus any applicable CME fees.

In addition to these costs, applicants should also consider any additional expenses associated with studying for and taking the examinations such as travel costs or study materials.

8. Certified Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon (COFAS)

Certified Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon (COFAS) is a certification given by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS). This certification is awarded to physicians who have completed an accredited residency in orthopedic surgery, have met specific training requirements in foot and ankle surgery, and have passed a comprehensive written and oral examination. The COFAS certification demonstrates that the physician has achieved a high level of expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of foot and ankle conditions.

To obtain the COFAS certification, physicians must first complete an accredited residency program in orthopedic surgery. After completing their residency, they must then complete at least one year of fellowship training specifically focused on foot and ankle surgery. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the COFAS examination through ABFAS.

The COFAS examination consists of both a written component and an oral component. The written portion consists of multiple-choice questions related to topics such as anatomy, pathology, biomechanics, clinical decision making, surgical techniques, patient safety protocols, etc. The oral portion consists of a case-based review where applicants will demonstrate their knowledge by discussing cases with examiners.

The cost for applying to take the COFAS examination is $2125 USD for US residents or $2450 USD for international residents. The cost includes all fees associated with taking the exam including registration fees, study materials fees, travel expenses (if applicable), etc. It typically takes 8-12 months from application submission to taking the exam depending on availability of test sites and scheduling conflicts.

9. Clinical Podiatric Medical Association Fellowship Program (CPMA-FP)

The Clinical Podiatric Medical Association Fellowship Program (CPMA-FP) is a post-graduate educational program that provides advanced training in the field of podiatric medicine. The program is designed to prepare fellows for a successful career in clinical practice, research, and/or teaching.

The CPMA-FP is a two-year program that includes both didactic and clinical instruction. During the first year of the program, fellows complete coursework in topics such as biomechanics, wound care, and orthopedic surgery. In addition to classroom learning, fellows also participate in hands-on laboratory sessions and clinical rotations. During the second year of the program, fellows participate in specialized clinics and gain experience in research or teaching activities.

In order to be eligible for the CPMA-FP, applicants must have completed an accredited Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree program and passed all state licensing exams. Applicants must also demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career related to podiatry through their academic performance and extracurricular activities.

The cost of the CPMA-FP varies depending on where you attend school; however, most programs range from $20,000-$30,000 for tuition and fees. Additionally, some schools may offer financial aid or scholarships to help cover costs associated with attending the fellowship program.

Overall, completing the CPMA-FP can provide graduates with an opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills that are necessary for success within the field of podiatry.

10. American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine Fellowship Program (ACFAOM-FP).

The American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine Fellowship Program (ACFAOM-FP) is a postgraduate training program for podiatric physicians. It is designed to provide advanced clinical and surgical training in the specialty of foot and ankle orthopedics and medicine. The program is offered through ACFAOM, an organization that promotes quality education and research in the field of foot and ankle medicine.

The fellowship program consists of two years of intensive study, including both didactic lectures and hands-on clinical experience. During the first year, fellows will receive instruction on topics such as anatomy, biomechanics, pathology, pharmacology, radiology, surgery, wound care management, rehabilitation, and more. In addition to classroom instruction, fellows will also participate in clinical rotations at various hospitals or clinics throughout the country. During their second year of study, fellows will focus on developing their skills in diagnosis, treatment planning, patient management techniques, surgical techniques, and other related areas.

The ACFAOM-FP requires applicants to have completed a Doctorate degree from an accredited podiatry school prior to applying for the fellowship program. Applicants must also be board certified by either the American Board of Podiatric Medicine or the American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery.

The cost for completing the ACFAOM-FP is approximately $25000 USD over two years (including tuition fees). This cost does not include living expenses or travel costs associated with attending lectures or clinical rotations throughout the country.

In order to get accepted into this fellowship program applicants must submit an application form along with three letters of recommendation from colleagues who are familiar with their work ethics and abilities as well as transcripts from all previous educational institutions attended. After submitting all materials required for admission consideration applicants may be invited to participate in an interview process which may include questions about their professional goals as well as their knowledge base in foot & ankle medicine & surgery.

Upon successful completion of all requirements students are awarded a Certificate of Completion from ACFAOM recognizing them as having successfully completed the Fellowship Program in Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (ACFAOM-FP).

Do You Really Need a Podiatrist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their situation. For some people, a podiatrist certificate may be necessary in order to practice certain medical treatments or procedures. For example, a podiatrist must hold a valid certificate in order to practice as a foot specialist. This is because they are trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various disorders of the feet and ankles. Other professions, such as nurses or physical therapists, may also require a certification from a podiatrist in order to specialize in this field.

In other cases, it may not be necessary for someone to have a podiatrist certificate in order to provide basic care for feet and ankles. For instance, if someone works as an athletic trainer or personal trainer, they may be able to provide general advice regarding exercises or stretches that can help improve foot health without needing any type of formal certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a podiatrist certificate will depend on your individual situation and the profession you are pursuing. If you are unsure about whether you need one for your particular occupation or field of work, it is best to speak with a professional who can provide more specific information based on your needs.

Related: Podiatrist Resume Examples

FAQs About Podiatrist Certifications

1. What is a Podiatrist Certification?

Answer: A Podiatrist Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s advanced level of education, training and skill in the field of podiatry.

2. How do I become certified as a Podiatrist?

Answer: In order to become certified as a Podiatrist, you must complete an accredited podiatric medical school program and pass the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) examination.

3. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Your certification must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid. You will need to complete continuing education courses or other activities approved by the ABPM prior to renewal.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Podiatrist?

Answer: Yes, in order to become certified as a Podiatrist, you must hold an active medical license from your state or jurisdiction and have completed at least three years of post-graduate residency training in an accredited podiatric medical school program.

5. What are the benefits of being certified as a Podiatrist?

Answer: By becoming certified as a Podiatrist, you can demonstrate your expertise and skill in the field to current and potential employers, increase your earning potential, open up new job opportunities and advance your career prospects overall.