Professional Administration and Development

Term: 
spring
Credits: 
1.5
Course Director(s):

Lawrence A. Levine, D.P.M., Associate Professor

Definition

Professional Administration and Development is the study of the art and science of the many facets of a podiatric medical practice. The course addresses the practical application of previously learned didactic information so as to enable the student to make intelligent decisions as to practice type, location, finances, third party interrelationship, staffing and the myriad of factors involved in growing a medical practice. Topics will include motivational introspection, practical guidance, and current crucial issues effecting the business of medicine. Emphasis will also be placed on record keeping, governmental financial obligations, computerization, and other topics based on student needs.

Purpose

To teach the student:

  • The ability to evaluate their personal needs and goals regarding podiatric practice.
  • The ability to evaluate patients regarding their needs for competent, compassionate, quality podiatric medical care.
  • The ability to evaluate opportunities in the field of clinical podiatric medicine.
  • The ability to evaluate their financial positions and needs. The ability to negotiate with financial institutions and present a succinct, well thought out business plan.
  • The ability to organize a professionally suitable office and run it according to the best ethical business standards.
  • The ability to translate didactic knowledge into clinical applicability including patient motivation.
  • The ability to act as an employer.
  • The ability to understand the practice opportunities available to the new podiatric physician.
  • The ability to develop a relationship with third party providers.

The student must be made aware of the fact that all of his/her didactic learning must eventually correlate to the practice of podiatric medicine. The practice of any medical discipline is more and more becoming a business. The person able to plan his/her own destiny will succeed. Others will fail. By evaluating strengths and weaknesses, setting of goals and having the ability to relate to patients, the new practitioner will have maximum chance of success. Early planning and evaluation is essential to the realization of the students goals and satisfaction with his/her career choice. This course attempts to translate clinical competency to success.