9/30/25 For Immediate Release

Illinois Association of Podiatric Physicians and Surgeons Respond to Misleading Statements from Orthopedic Leadership

Chicago, IL — The Illinois Association of Podiatric Physicians and Surgeons (ILAPPS), representing more than 1,200 licensed podiatric physicians and surgeons across Illinois, issues this statement in response to recent inflammatory and misleading claims made by orthopedic organizations regarding podiatric training and expertise in foot and ankle care.

These statements, which mischaracterize the education, surgical experience, and qualifications of podiatrists, are both factually inaccurate and harmful to patient trust. They also stand in stark contrast to the reality that orthopedic practices across the country regularly employ podiatrists as partners and colleagues in delivering foot and ankle care.

Setting the Record Straight

Podiatric surgical training is rigorous, comprehensive, and specifically dedicated to the foot and ankle. Podiatrists complete a three-year surgical residency focused exclusively on foot and ankle care, encompassing biomechanics, diabetic limb salvage, wound management, trauma, reconstructive procedures, and limb-preserving surgery. Many podiatric physicians pursue additional fellowships to deepen expertise in trauma, complex pathology, and advanced reconstructive techniques.

By comparison, orthopedic residents receive broader musculoskeletal training but perform far fewer foot and ankle procedures during residency. The claim that orthopedic surgeons are inherently more qualified in this area is simply not supported by the evidence.

A Call for Respect and Accuracy

ILAPPS recognizes and values the important contributions of orthopedic surgeons within musculoskeletal medicine. Collaboration between specialties is essential for advancing patient outcomes. However, the recent statements published under orthopedic leadership are divisive, misleading, and ultimately detrimental to the patients we all serve.

Our patients deserve accurate information, not rhetoric that misrepresents training pathways and diminishes access to expert care.

Considering Legal Action

ILAPPS prefers professional dialogue and constructive engagement through peer-reviewed, fact-based channels. However, if these statements are not clarified or retracted, we are prepared to pursue legal action to protect our members, our profession, and, most importantly, our patients.

As leaders in podiatric medicine, we remain committed to transparency, patient advocacy, and the highest ethical and clinical standards. We will not allow misinformation to compromise patient care or diminish the essential role podiatric physicians play in foot and ankle health.

Media Contact:
Dr. Peter Lovato

President
Illinois Association of Podiatric Physicians and Surgeons

(312) 427-5810
[email protected]

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IMPORTANT UPDATES! 

 9/25/25 - In Memoriam

 It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Dr. Helena Reed’s mother has passed away in Canada. Dr. Reed is a proud member of ILAPPS, and we extend our deepest condolences to her and her family during this difficult time.

We encourage all ILAPPS members to keep Dr. Reed and her family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this loss. 

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APMA is excited to announce it is partnering with Marit Health to conduct a comprehensive national survey to gather the most accurate, up-to-date data on salary and compensation in podiatry. This anonymous, five-minute survey will allow APMA to build a comprehensive dataset on salary and compensation in podiatry. This data will help drive student recruitment and workforce planning and will empower individual physicians in hiring and contract negotiations. You will also reap important personal benefits from participating—including the potential to win great prizes! READ MORE.....

 8/25/25 - CAC-PIAC Representative call updates

Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) Proposed Rule APMA Health Policy & Coding Advisor Jeffrey Lehrman, DPM started the meeting, providing an overview of the CY 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule (PFS) and noting that the comment period is currently open and APMA staff are working closely with the Health Policy and Practice Committee (HPPC) to prepare the APMA’s response. Read more..... 

 7/30/25 -  OPEIU Health Insurance Plan Update

To Guild Participants: We have received the renewal of the OPEIU Health Insurance Plan for September 2025 through August 2026. As you know, this is a fully insured plan through Highmark that , through internal BCBS agreements, allows access in all Guild states , using the local Blue provider networks. Rate grids prepared and will be available for publish in September. 

Patrice Cooper - Executive Director 

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