March 14, 2021

On Sunday, March 14, Jeffrey R. DeSantis, DPM, was installed as APMA president by Dr. DeSantis’ friend, and fellow California podiatrist, Franklin Kase, DPM. Dr. DeSantis began his virtual speech with "2021 is giving us reason for optimism.”  His vision for the coming year includes advocacy toward achieving full parity by continuing to educate our MD/DO colleagues on equivalency. “I truly believe that a DPM who graduates from a three-year residency program should have an unlimited ple­nary license like any allopathic or osteopathic physician,” he said. “I believe we should not be subject to discrimination that po­tentially comes with a limited license.”  Dr. DeSantis continued, touching on how podiatric medical education has changed since he graduated from podiatric medical school in 1990, and how podiatrists have advanced.

"Most of you know that in the Bible, Solomon asked God for the wisdom to lead and make good decisions," Dr. DeSantis said. "Well, that is also what I asked from God! I will need that, as together with your Board of Trustees, we will make decisions that affect the lives of millions. Yes, we are the American Podiatric Medical Association, here to support 12,000-plus doctors of podiatric medicine throughout the United States. However, those decisions that we make and our work with federal legislative bodies affect not only podiatric physicians but the quality of life for the millions of Americans we serve," he noted.

In closing, Dr. DeSantis said, “In my life, I try to be a good father, husband, and friend, and I promise all of you that I will do my best to be a good president of our association.”

A video of Dr. DeSantis' speech is available below, and you can read the full transcript in the forthcoming March–April issue of APMA News.

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