In order to assist podiatric physicians in understanding the proper manner in which to advertise or represent themselves in conformance with statutory requirements, the State Medical Board of Ohio has issued this statement.

Section 4731.56, Ohio Revised Code, states in part:

A certificate authorizing the practice of podiatric medicine and surgery permits the holder the use of the title "physician" or the use of the title "surgeon" when the title is qualified by letters or words showing that the holder of the certificate is a practitioner of podiatric medicine and surgery.

Therefore, when a podiatric physician advertises as a physician or surgeon, it is not sufficient to indicate that he or she "specializes" in foot and/or ankle care; such advertisements must also include a designation that the practitioner is a "D.P.M., " "podiatric physician" or "practitioner, podiatric medicine." Careful observance of this statutory requirement will avoid any misunderstanding or misperception by the public and will obviate the need for Medical Board contact to resolve the situation.
 

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