How to become a podiatrist in Canada

Podiatrists play a vital role in Canada's healthcare system, diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. With foot health being essential to overall well-being, podiatrists help patients manage injuries, chronic conditions like diabetes, and mobility issues.​

Despite a growing demand for qualified podiatrists, Canada has a limited number of licensed professionals, making this a high-opportunity career path for internationally trained applicants. As of December 1, 2024, there were approximately 860 podiatrists practicing in Canada, with a significant concentration in Ontario, which accounts for 498 of these professionals. This scarcity underscores the need for more practitioners nationwide.​

What does a podiatrist do?

A podiatrist is a healthcare professional specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot and lower limb conditions. Their work includes:

• Assessing and treating foot disorders, injuries, and deformities
• Prescribing orthotics and rehabilitation treatments
• Performing minor surgical procedures on the foot and ankle
• Educating patients on foot health and injury prevention

Podiatrists work in private clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and sports medicine facilities. They often collaborate with physiotherapists, orthopedic specialists, and diabetic care teams.

Educational and licensing requirements

In Canada, the practice of podiatry varies by province, leading to differences in educational prerequisites and licensing procedures. 

Educational qualifications

• Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM): Provinces such as Alberta and British Columbia require practitioners to hold a DPM degree from an accredited institution, typically in the United States. This program spans four years and follows the completion of a bachelor's degree.
  
  
• Diploma in Chiropody (DCh): In provinces like Ontario, practitioners may hold an advanced three-year diploma in chiropody obtained in Canada or a first-degree program in podiatric medicine from abroad, such as the United Kingdom.
  
  

Licensing examinations

• Provincial licensing: Each province has its own regulatory body overseeing podiatry practice. For instance, in Alberta, the College of Podiatric Physicians of Alberta (CPPA) requires candidates to have a DPM degree and may necessitate additional assessments or residencies.

Provincial registration

• Regulatory bodies: After meeting educational and examination requirements, practitioners must register with the provincial regulatory authority where they intend to practice. For example, in Alberta, this is the CPPA.

Podiatrist salary in Canada

Podiatrists in Canada earn competitive salaries, with earnings varying based on experience, location, and specialization.

• Entry-level podiatrists: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
• Experienced podiatrists: $150,000 – $200,000+ per year

Salaries tend to be higher in private practice or specialized fields like sports medicine.

How Windmill Microlending supports internationally trained podiatrists and healthcare professionals

Becoming a licensed podiatrist in Canada can be a costly process, with expenses related to credential assessments, licensing exams, bridging programs, and additional training. For internationally trained healthcare professionals, financial barriers should not stand in the way of career advancement.

Windmill Microlending provides affordable loans to help podiatrists and other regulated medical professionals cover the costs of certification, training, and licensing. Whether you are a podiatrist, physiotherapist, optometrist, or another healthcare professional, our loans can support your journey to practicing in Canada.

Take the next step toward your career in podiatry or healthcare. Visit Windmill Microlending to learn how we can help you succeed.

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