Specialty, Clinical Interest, and Related Organizations
A Specialty Organization brings together podiatrists and others who have a common interest in a unique area of podiatric medical practice. All members of these organizations shall demonstrate clinical competence by either obtaining certification or board qualification from an APMA recognized certifying board, or by completion of a separate examination specific to the specialty area that has been prepared and implemented by the specialty organization, and/or by presentation of a significant number of documented cases in the specialty area that have been approved by the specialty organization.
These organizations bring together content experts in a unique area of specialization, helping to advance the knowledge of the podiatric medical profession in their field of interest and may serve as the gatekeeper for the eventual development of a future board certification process (when no certification currently exists) designed to enhance and promote the health and welfare of the public and for which the public is unable to determine for itself whether practitioners have achieved certain specific qualifications, abilities, and skills. The organization shall pursue recognition of affiliated status in accordance with the APMA Policies and Administrative Procedures and subject to final approval by the House of Delegates.
A Clinical Interest Organization brings together podiatrists and others who have a common interest in a unique area of podiatric medical practice. Members are expected to have a significant interest in the unique area of practice but may be seeking membership purely to develop or expand this interest by gaining increased knowledge and/or skill through educational programs and/or materials offered or produced by the organization. These organizations may serve as the gatekeeper for the eventual development of a future board certification process. The organization shall pursue recognition of affiliated status in accordance with the APMA Policies and Administrative Procedures and subject to final approval by the House of Delegates.
A Related Organization brings together podiatrists and/or others who have a common interest in a non-clinical aspect of podiatric medicine and practice (e.g., administrative, educational, credentialing, fraternal, or cultural). The organization shall pursue recognition of affiliated status in accordance with the APMA Policies and Administrative Procedures and subject to final approval by the House of Delegates.