Guidance on Education and Training Representation
Approved by the ACFAS Board of Directors on July 19, 2026
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The College recognizes that podiatric surgical educational training pathways and terminology have evolved over time. As a result, members may have completed a variety of educational experiences during podiatric medical school, throughout residency training, and through post-residency educational opportunities.
Members of ACFAS should present their knowledge, skills and abilities in a truthful and professional manner as they also represent the specialty in addition to themselves. Foot and ankle surgeons are valued members of the healthcare team and are obligated to put their patients’ needs first to help them make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.
ACFAS members are expected to uphold high ethical and professional standards when advertising or publicly discussing their healthcare services. Patients look to foot and ankle surgeons to be honest stewards who provide skillful and competent care. ACFAS members should not misrepresent their abilities or provide false information to healthcare consumers.
Members may choose to pursue additional education and training after residency, including fellowship training. Beginning in 2010, fellowship programs with ACFAS status have provided formal, specialized post-residency training for 12 months or greater, allowing physicians to focus on acquiring further in-depth knowledge and skills through a combination of surgery, clinical work, research, and mentorship.
The College encourages members to accurately and clearly describe their educational training experiences in a transparent and professional manner. Members who have completed fellowship programs with ACFAS status are encouraged to proudly identify those experiences accurately when discussing their professional qualifications.
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons is a professional society of over 8,100 foot and ankle surgeons. Founded in 1942, the College’s mission is to advance excellence in foot and ankle surgery to achieve superior patient outcomes.