The Path To Becoming A Foot And Ankle Surgeon
You may have wondered how I became a Foot and Ankle Surgeon? Or, what does it take to become a Foot and Ankle Surgeon? Perhaps, why someone would treat feet all day?
A surgeon begins their journey as a medical student. I undertook an undergraduate medical degree before becoming a qualified doctor. To gain full registration as a doctor, we must satisfy requirements during our internship year. Although at the time it felt like the hard yards had finally finished, they were really only just beginning.
In general, junior doctors work for several more years as a pre-trainee, gaining additional experience in areas of acute medicine and trauma, the Intensive Care Unit and often other surgical specialities such as vascular surgery. If fortunate to be selected on the extremely competitive Orthopaedic Surgery training program, undertake speciality training for five years.
Finally, after years of hard work, study, exams, late nights and many hours in the operating theatre, become qualified as an orthopaedic surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and the Australian Orthopaedic Association.
Many of us undertake further study in subspecialties, mine being in Foot and Ankle Surgery. I completed my fellowship training in Calgary, Canada, an experience rich in education and learning, mentorship, travel , great friends and immersion into the Canadian culture.
A surgeon is someone who has been trained through an accredited program. You will see my qualifications hanging on the wall in my office and by the post nominal letters.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle problems, please contact orthopaedic surgeon Dr Danielle Wadley to discuss your options. 07 5645 6913.
