Ban podiatrists from using ‘surgeon’ title, says AMA
A sub-group of 'podiatric surgeons' already perform foot and ankle surgeries, but the doctors' group says using the title misleads patients into thinking they are being operated on by a medical practitioner
The AMA is calling for an end to podiatrists who perform bunion surgery and ankle fusions calling themselves ‘surgeons’.
It says the title should be reserved for doctors who have obtained a fellowship through an Australian Medical Council-accredited specialist medical college.
The ban on podiatrists using ‘surgeon’ was essential to avoid misleading patients into thinking they had formal medical qualifications and undergoing potentially “catastrophic” procedures.
The AMA made the call in its submission to the Podiatry Board of Australia’s current consultation on proposed professional capabilities and accreditation standards for its members.
