Orthopaedic-Podiatric Task Force Releases Certification Equivalency Goals White Paper

May 20, 2021

On May 6, 2021, the Joint Task Force of Orthopaedic and Podiatric Surgeons released a white paper that addresses the goal of equivalency in education pathways and certification. The project represents a years-long process of “thoughtful discussion and deliberation,” according to the official announcement

The next step in this process is a resolution recently submitted for consideration at the June 2021 Special Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates. The white paper and resolution demonstrate the goal of standardizing education and accreditation for care of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. 

Four member organizations compose the task force: the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS).

ABFAS acknowledges the work of the Joint Task Force in developing the resolution and looks forward to the opportunity to explore how this study will impact foot and ankle surgeons going forward.