Truth in Advertising by Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Approved by the ACFAS Board of Directors, July 2024Download as PDF
Members of ACFAS must present their knowledge, skills and abilities in a truthful and professional manner
as they also represent the profession. 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 subscribe to the highest ethical, professional and legal standards, which is paramount
when members advertise or publicly discuss their healthcare services. Patients look to foot and ankle
surgeons to be honest stewards who provide skillful and competent care. ACFAS members will not
misrepresent their abilities or provide false information to healthcare consumers.
All healthcare providers are subject to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission regulations on advertising.
Three main areas constitute false advertising: failure to disclose, flawed and insignificant research, and
product disparagement. ACFAS requests its members comply with these federal regulations as well as all
applicable state and local laws. Members should be aware that false statements/advertisement, including
information appearing on behalf of colleagues, can be demonstrated through a variety of mediums, such
as (but not limited to), books, periodicals, social media outlets, websites, newspapers, television, radio,
marketing materials, magazines, videos, public presentations, etc.
Foot and ankle surgeons who are members of ACFAS need to be vigilant to the adherence of standards
that achieve truth in advertising and hold all members of the healthcare staff to the same standards.
*An additional recommended resource: ABFAS Advertising Policies