Keith D. Cook, DPM, FACFAS | New Jersey

Biography:

Dr. Keith Cook graduated from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, NY, with a bachelor’s degree in biology, and received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, graduating Cum Laude. He then completed a three year, PSR-24+, residency program at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ)/University Hospital in Newark, NJ. In 2005, he achieved ABFAS Board Certification in Foot and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery.

Following residency, Dr. Cook took a podiatry staff position at the New York Hotel Trades Council in New York City. He then moved back to UMDNJ-University Hospital, serving as the residency program director for 16 years. He is currently the Chair of the Podiatry Department at University Hospital, remaining involved in residency training. He holds multiple leadership positions at University Hospital including serving on the Credentials Committee, Operating Room Committee and Medical Executive Committee.

Over the past ten years, Dr. Cook has served as an ABFAS Case Reviewer, on the Case Review Committee, and Appeals Committee.

Previously, Dr. Cook served as the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) Tri-State Region President, Chair of the Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME), on the Residency Review Committee and multiple ACFAS task forces and CPME ad hoc committees.  Currently, he is the Vice-Chair of the Council of Teaching Hospitals.

Personal Statement:

I am honored to be nominated and seek a position on the ABFAS Board of Directors. As an ABFAS board-certified foot and ankle surgeon at a major university academic medical center, I am aware of the importance of maintaining the ABFAS high standards of board certification for achieving parity with other medical specialties.

During my involvement with ABFAS, I contributed to meaningful reform in the case review process that streamlined candidates’ pathway to board certification and strengthened evaluation consistency. These changes improved outcomes while preserving the integrity of ABFAS without compromising standards or public protection.

As a board member, I will advocate for advancements in education and training, creating environments for developing the most highly trained foot and ankle surgeons. My past leadership positions will bring a unique perspective to the board of directors to achieve these advancements.

I believe it is crucial to continue building relationships across professional organizations, working together to strengthen the profession, and improving patient outcomes. I also believe maintaining transparency in the certification process is of the utmost importance, eliminating barriers to ABFAS board certification and supporting practitioners in obtaining board certification so that they may reach their full potential.

I ask for your support in this election. It would be a privilege to serve the ABFAS membership as a board member, advancing the goals of ABFAS with a commitment to excellence and the highest standards of patient care.