Podiatrist vs. Primary Care Physician

A specialist is always going to be better at treating specific conditions. PCPs lack the specialized knowledge and experience and are best suited for general ailments and referrals to specialists.

tibbleinparadise-

Thank you. I guess you are recommending a podiatrist.

I basically accept the principle that you have stated. But I also thought that a podiatrist does not earn an M.D. degree.

I know that among physicians who do have M.D. degrees there are many who are specialists in a particular area (e.g., cardiologist for the heart). Is there an M.D. specialty for the foot?

I suppose it may be accurate to say a podiatrist isn't a generic MD, but that is only because they've specialized in podiatry and received a DPM. DPMs are specifically trained in diagnosing and treating (including surgery) problems of the feet. Sort of like dentists deal specifically with teeth.

tibbleinparadise-

Thank you.

I guess that there are no M.D.'s that specialize in the feet.

[This is not part of the question, but as relates to the eyes, there are optometrists who are "doctors" but not M.D.'s

Then there are ophthalmologists who are M.D.'s with a specialty in the eyes.

I think it is generally recognized that ophthalmologists are superior to optometrists.

The reason for my question is I thought that podiatrists might be analogous to optometrists and that there might be an M.D. specialty for the feet.

DPMs receive the same basic education as an MD. The difference is the residency requirements and all subsequent experience focuses specifically on the foot and ankle. DPMs are also going to be trained and experienced in performing surgery where as a basic MD does not have surgical experience.

tibbleinparadise-

Thank you.