Just Accepted
This article has been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. It is in production and has not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.
Podiatric Surgery: A Canary in the Coalmine for Professional Monopolies
Abstract
In the evolving health workforce, podiatric surgeons are redefining professional boundaries and challenging traditional role perceptions. These specialists have established a robust training program in the highly regulated field of surgery, demonstrating significant implications for the entire health workforce. Historically, surgery has been dominated by medically trained surgeons, but over the past half-century, Australian and UK podiatrists have successfully created their own surgical training colleges and gained regulatory approval, despite opposition from orthopaedic surgeons. Podiatric surgeons have faced regulatory challenges, achieving recognition through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) but lacking access to Medicare or private health insurance funding. In 2023, an independent review commissioned by the Podiatry Board of Australia confirmed the sound quality of podiatric surgeons' education and training, recommending public health system access and Medicare funding to address workforce pressures and ensure safety and quality. These findings highlight the socialisation of certain tasks to specific professionals in healthcare. The persistence of podiatric surgeons illustrates that, with appropriate training and regulation, other healthcare professionals can perform traditionally protected tasks safely and effectively. Expanding the scope of practice for various healthcare professionals is crucial in addressing health workforce shortages and ensuring timely, effective patient care. However, regulatory support must be accompanied by access to funding and appropriate facilities. The independent review's recommendation for podiatric surgeons to access public funding sets a precedent for other healthcare professions, advocating for recognition and support of tasks across qualified professionals. By adopting this approach, the health workforce can become more flexible and responsive, better equipped to meet 21st-century demands. The journey of podiatric surgeons from a contested profession to recognised surgical practitioners underscores the importance of robust training programs, regulatory support, and public funding in expanding professional roles, providing a roadmap for innovative healthcare solutions.
AH24175 Accepted 04 July 2024
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