Things to Know about a Podiatrist

The healthcare market is on the up, and the forecasts remain positive. Demographic change, increased life expectancy, and the associated increasing number of older people – these are the most critical cornerstones of current development. In the future, too, the healthcare sector will be one of the most labor-intensive industries, with a correspondingly high demand for qualified specialists. These are podiatrists, for example, for whom excellent future opportunities are opening up.

What exactly does a podiatrist do?

The profession of a podiatrist is a health profession. A standard definition of podiatry is the non-medical treatment of the foot. Podiatry is thus clearly differentiated from pure foot care, as practiced by podiatrists. A podiatrist is a general uniformly regulated school education that is currently offered at around 50 vocational schools. The full-time training usually lasts two years and part-time a maximum of four years. Only those who have completed the described training with a final examination at a state-recognized vocational school are allowed to use the title “Podiatrist” or “Medical Pedicurist”.

A changing profession

The development of podiatry has been committed to quality assurance, in training and the further development of the profession for many years. This development is far from over. A keyword here is the sectoral alternative practitioner permit for podiatrists, which is now possible in eight federal states. The German Podiatry Association will continue to be active in this area in the interests of its members and the benefits of patients.

Difference between cosmetic foot care vs. medical foot care

Cosmetic foot care deals with hygienic and aesthetic characteristics of the feet. A podiatrist, on the other hand, takes care of the prevention and treatment of medical foot problems. Diabetic foot syndrome and ingrown nails also fall within the scope of duties.

To be called a podiatrist, you have to complete a state-recognized specialist training. This lasts two years. During the training, specialist knowledge in the areas of microbiology and anatomy is imparted. The consequences of diabetes are also explicitly addressed.

Cosmetic foot care may only be carried out on healthy feet and only includes preventive and care measures. The job title is not protected, and you can carry out employment without special permission.

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