Interested in being credentialled?

The framework supports podiatrists who want to go even deeper into their chosen area of interest. Based on a competency structure, assessments are carried out against the internationally-recognised CanMEDS framework to support a clear pathway for career progression beyond initial training.

What it covers

The CanMEDS framework is an adopted physician competency framework, which ensures a credentialled podiatrist will “personify and seamlessly integrate the competencies of all seven CanMEDS roles”.

There is plenty of information online on this – but in short, this qualification covers these roles: medical expert, communicator, collaborator, leader, health advocate, scholar and professional.

Going into more detail, there are four assessment stages in these career pathways.

1. Personal portfolio
   You’ll submit five examples of leadership and five examples of evidence-based contribution in your stream. You have 24 months to complete this, and it will be reviewed by an assessor.

2. Case study portfolio
   This is a large body of work where you are required to submit at least 15 clinical case studies. You’ll start with two case studies to get feedback, and the first one must be marked competent before moving on. If three attempts at your first case study do not pass, you’ll be asked to pause and reflect before continuing.

3. MCQ exam
   The next step is the exam. It’s a multiple-choice exam (with 70 questions in 90 minutes) which can only take place after your case studies are complete. It covers a range of areas including scholar, clinical expert, and health advocate roles. The pass mark is 50%. Exams are held online with supervision.

4. Viva exam
   The last step in the process is an oral exam which tests your clinical reasoning and communication. You’ll record a real initial consult (with patient consent) and submit it with your notes. Two assessors will review it and then interview you via Zoom.

All done!

Then you are credentialled – and only then are you legally allowed to use the title ‘credentialled podiatrist’. This is the ONLY way you can use this title as it reflects the additional professional development you have undergone to receive this formal career recognition. Not only will you gain recognition for this extra leadership and clinical work – but you will also join the Assessor Group to support the next group coming through.

Who can apply?

To apply, you need to:

• Be a current APodA member
• Have finished your degree more than two years ago
• Be currently working in your area of interest
• Be a SEPA member (for sports/biomechanics stream)
• Have reviewed the curriculum and guidelines

How to apply

With applications open year-round via the APodA website, you can apply at any time that suits you.  There are costs involved in applying and also to complete the cost, which are broken down in detail on the APodA website.

What others say

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate why podiatrists excel in managing foot and ankle pathology.”
John Osborne, Credentialled Sports / Biomechanics Podiatrist

“The process encourages self-reflection and engagement with evidence, both of which improve practice.”
Dr Helen Banwell, Credentialled Paediatric Podiatrist

“It has strengthened my confidence in my scope of practice and provided personal fulfilment through meaningful self-reflection.”
Liz O’Malley, Credentialled Paediatric Podiatrist

Questions?

Email education@podiatry.org.au