Podiatry events such as conferences, seminars and trade shows are great ways to further your knowledge and better serve your patients. The following are a few key ways to continue your learning experience and stay informed about the latest information on podiatric medicine:

1. Attend a podiatry seminar or conference to learn new skills.
2. Explore continuing education opportunities to extend your knowledge and credentials.
3. Attend podiatric trade shows to discover products and practices you can incorporate in your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Attend a podiatrist conference or seminar

Going to an annual podiatry conference may seem dull, but it is more than just a learning experience; it is a wonderful networking opportunity that can help give your business a boost. Because most podiatry meetings are heavily sponsored, these types of events are great ways to see what new products and technology are available to podiatrists, and to actually sample the products first hand.

I recommend: The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) holds an annual conference that includes educational sessions and workshops for doctors of podiatry. The Midwest Podiatry Conference is held annually, with educational programming for both doctors and podiatric assistants, as well as a large exhibit hall displaying the latest technology and gadgetry. The Western Podiatric Medical Conference is another annual event presented by the California Podiatric Medical Association. Other yearly conferences and seminars are offered by The Podiatry Institute, an educational foundation established to provide podiatry events and ongoing education to podiatrists.

Earn CME (continuing medical education) credits via podiatry seminars

Earning CMEs for attending podiatry meetings is a win/win situation. Not only do you get to be out of the office for awhile and meet other medical professionals, but you also have the opportunity to learn the latest tricks of the trade while building your credibility as a skilled podiatrist.

I recommend: The American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management (AAPPM) offers numerous educational opportunities, including weekend boot camps. The North American Center for Continuing Medical Education (NACCME) lists many sources of continuing medical education, including regional podiatry conferences, online webcasts, journal articles and other opportunities for acquiring CME credits. If you can't get away easily to attend an event, another available online resource is the continuing education program offered by Podiatry Management Magazine. In addition, you may want to check out the websites of various podiatric colleges. Many conduct podiatry meetings with the added benefit of earning continuing medical education credits. One school that offers CME podiatry seminars throughout the year is Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine, and you don't need to be an alumnus to participate.

Visit a podiatry trade show to see and test the newest products for your practice

Podiatric trade shows allow podiatrists to sample products from a variety of makers and distributors. Don't rely only on a sales rep that comes to your office. Instead, get out and discover products from a wide range of companies.

I recommend: The majority of podiatry conferences offer large exhibit halls, so make sure to check out the exhibitor's section when you attend your next podiatry meeting, such as the one at the Midwest Podiatry Conference Chicago. If you simply can't get away to attend a podiatry trade show, you can still check out the online Virtual Tradeshow presented by The Podiatry Institute.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't hesitate to use a podiatry conference, seminar, or other event to your own advantage. Take the opportunity to network, advertise your practice and let others know what you are doing that makes you stand out in your profession.