Public Health Podiatrist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of public health consciousness, the importance of Public Health Podiatrists has never been more evident.

As public awareness of foot health grows, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and prevent foot and ankle disorders.

But what is truly expected from a Public Health Podiatrist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the world of podiatry in public health,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable Public Health Podiatrist job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Public Health Podiatrist Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Podiatrists are medical specialists focusing on diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.

Their role is crucial in helping to improve the general health of the community.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluate the condition of a patient’s feet, ankles, or lower legs by reviewing the medical history, listening to the patient’s concerns, and performing physical examinations
• Diagnose foot, ankle, and lower-leg problems through physical exams, x rays, medical laboratory tests, and other methods
• Provide treatment for foot, ankle, and lower leg ailments, such as prescribing special shoe inserts (orthotics) to improve and correct foot and ankle deformities
• Perform foot and ankle surgeries, such as removing bone spurs, fracture repairs, and correcting other foot and ankle deformities
• Advise and instruct patients on foot health and prevention of foot problems
• Prescribe medications for foot ailments, such as antibiotics, pain medications or antifungal drugs
• Refer patients to other physicians or specialists if they detect larger health problems, such as diabetes
• Conduct community outreach programs to educate the public about foot health and prevention of foot diseases and disorders

 

Public Health Podiatrist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Public Health Podiatrist to provide comprehensive foot and lower limb care.

This includes diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, from foot deformities and injuries to nail and skin conditions.

The ideal candidate will be able to educate the public on the importance of foot health, especially in managing and preventing conditions related to diabetes and peripheral vascular disease.

The candidate should be well versed in preventative care and early detection of health issues related to the feet and lower extremities.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnose foot and lower limb abnormalities and diseases
• Perform medical procedures such as nail surgery and biomechanical assessments
• Prescribe therapeutic measures like orthotics and medication
• Provide advice and education on foot health, footwear and injury prevention
• Coordinate with other health professionals to provide holistic patient care
• Participate in public health campaigns and initiatives
• Document and maintain accurate patient records
• Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in podiatry

 

Qualifications

• A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited college
• Active and valid state license to practice podiatry
• Proven experience in public health or a healthcare setting
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong knowledge of therapeutic options and the ability to explain these to patients
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Podiatrist
• Work Environment: Clinical setting with occasional public health outreach events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Public Health Director or Medical Director.
• Salary: Salary is determined by candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and department considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Public Health Podiatrist Do?

Public Health Podiatrists are healthcare professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions and diseases related to feet and the lower limbs.

They work within the public health sector, serving communities to help prevent foot-related illnesses, promote foot health, and manage foot disorders.

They can be found in hospitals, community clinics, or health centers.

They often work as part of a multidisciplinary team to manage patients with complex conditions such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, where foot health is a significant concern.

Public Health Podiatrists provide education and advice on foot care, footwear, and the use of orthotic devices.

They may also perform minor surgeries, nail and skin care, and prescribe medicines.

In some cases, they are involved in wound care management, especially for wounds that are slow to heal due to underlying conditions like diabetes.

They may also work on public health campaigns and initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of foot health.

This can involve conducting health education sessions, organizing foot screenings, and advocating for public policies that promote foot health.

In all aspects of their job, Public Health Podiatrists play a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.

 

Public Health Podiatrist Qualifications and Skills

A Public Health Podiatrist should have a range of practical skills, personal characteristics, and qualifications such as:

• Medical knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat foot and lower limb conditions, including those related to diabetes, arthritis, and sports injuries.
• Effective communication skills to explain complex medical conditions and treatment plans to patients in an understandable manner.
• Interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients, which can make them feel at ease during treatments.
• Attention to detail to accurately assess and diagnose conditions, and to ensure treatments are carried out precisely and effectively.
• Problem-solving abilities to devise suitable treatment plans for patients with various foot and lower limb conditions.
• Manual dexterity and technical skills to use a range of medical instruments and equipment.
• Organizational skills to manage and prioritize a busy workload effectively.
• A Bachelor’s degree in podiatry or a related field and relevant licensure to practice as a podiatrist.
• Awareness and understanding of public health issues and policies, particularly as they relate to foot health and mobility.

 

Public Health Podiatrist Experience Requirements

Public Health Podiatrists are required to have substantial experience in the field of podiatry.

Typically, an entry-level candidate will have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through clinical rotations during their Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree program or through a residency program after graduation.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience may have worked in a hospital, clinic or private practice setting.

They should have developed their technical skills in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.

More experienced candidates with over 5 years in the field may possess additional specialization in areas like sports medicine, pediatrics, or diabetic foot care.

This level of experience often involves leadership or management roles in their previous positions.

In addition to clinical experience, Public Health Podiatrists should also have experience working within public health systems, including program planning, health education, and working with diverse populations.

Some may also have experience in research, contributing to the development and improvement of podiatric treatments and preventive care strategies.

 

Public Health Podiatrist Education and Training Requirements

A Public Health Podiatrist typically requires a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from a recognized podiatric medical school.

The process begins with a bachelor’s degree, ideally in the sciences such as biology, chemistry, or pre-med.

The student then needs to take and pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to get admission into a podiatric medical school.

Podiatric medical school typically lasts four years, with the first two years being classroom-based learning and the last two involving hands-on clinical experience.

After obtaining a DPM degree, podiatrists need to complete a three-year residency program to gain practical experience.

In order to practice, a podiatrist must be licensed in their state.

Licensure requirements vary from state to state, but generally, a podiatrist must graduate from an accredited podiatric medical school and pass the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Exam (APMLE).

To specialize in public health, podiatrists may choose to earn a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, which can provide them with a broader understanding of public health issues, policy, and administration.

Continuing education is crucial in this role to stay up-to-date with the latest treatments and advancements in public health.

Many podiatrists also join professional organizations to network with other professionals, attend conferences, and participate in continuing education opportunities.

 

Public Health Podiatrist Salary Expectations

A Public Health Podiatrist can expect to earn an average salary of $129,550 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of specialization, geographical location, and the type of employer.

 

Public Health Podiatrist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Public Health Podiatrist need?

Public Health Podiatrists must have a degree in podiatry and be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Some podiatrists choose to further their education with a master’s or doctorate degree.

They also need to be able to perform minor surgeries and prescribe medicine, which may require additional licensing in certain regions.

 

What are the typical duties of a Public Health Podiatrist?

Public Health Podiatrists diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.

They perform foot exams, prescribe medications, order and interpret lab tests, provide foot care education, and refer patients to other specialists when necessary.

They may also perform minor surgeries and use therapeutic and corrective devices, such as orthotics and casts.

 

What skills should a Public Health Podiatrist possess?

In addition to medical knowledge and technical skills, a Public Health Podiatrist should have excellent communication skills to clearly explain medical issues and treatments to patients.

They should also have good manual dexterity, as they often perform delicate operations on a small part of the body.

Other important skills include problem-solving, decision-making, and critical thinking skills.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Podiatrist resume?

When reviewing a Public Health Podiatrist’s resume, look for a degree in podiatry and registration with the HCPC.

Experience in the field, particularly in public health, is also a plus.

Check for evidence of ongoing professional development, as this shows a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest medical knowledge and techniques.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Podiatrist?

A good Public Health Podiatrist is patient and empathetic, as they often work with people who are in pain or facing health challenges.

They should be detail-oriented, as this is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Good organization skills are also important, as they need to manage patient records, schedule appointments, and coordinate with other healthcare professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of the role of a public health podiatrist.

But guess what?

It’s not just about treating foot disorders.

It’s about promoting overall health and wellness, one foot at a time.

Armed with our go-to public health podiatrist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Stride further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously crafted job listings or tweaking your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every step taken towards better foot health forms part of a healthier community.

Let’s build that healthier future. Together.

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