This post was written by Dennis R. Frisch, DPM; APMA Trustee

Dr. Frisch participates in a discussion during the November PE&I committee meeting.

The Public Education and Information (PE&I) committee met on November 12 and 13 to discuss upcoming promotional plans. The PE&I committee is comprised of 10 members representing a cross section of interests including young physicians, state association executives, and practicing podiatrists from across the country. Along with APMA’s communications staff, the committee works on behalf of all members to develop strategies for educating patients, legislators, and other professionals regarding podiatric medicine. As part of this, the committee also works to develop materials that help members promote their individual practices. The committee and staff are dedicated to working together to put podiatric medicine and our members in the limelight.

I’m pleased I’ve been able to participate in the committee as its Board of Trustees’ liaison. It’s given me the opportunity to work with some truly dedicated podiatrists and APMA staff to the betterment of our profession. I have learned to think with the public in mind, as opposed to my own office-based corner of the world.

The PE&I committee has developed multiple award-winning programs. All of our materials are available on the APMA website and can be used by you or as part of a larger effort by your state association. Our campaigns and materials include:

• Today’s Podiatrist – designed to educate the public about  the education, training, and experience of podiatrists
• Knock Your Socks Off – designed to increase the public’s awareness about importance of the foot in managing the possible complications associated with diabetes
• Today’s Podiatrist Keeps America Moving – designed to educate the public on a variety of foot issues
• Posters – available to display in your office to promote the above campaigns
• Brochures – available to help educate your patients on a variety of subjects related to foot and ankle care
• Media materials – advice on interacting with the media and promoting your practice

While our educational materials have received numerous professional awards, the key to any successful educational program is getting the information out to the intended audience. Please, please, please use the materials that we produce — they are a valuable APMA member benefit. When we all work together to educate the public, all of us win. Start in your own practice, and then encourage your state leadership to use the materials on a wider basis. And tell the PE&I committee what other materials or campaigns you would like to see.