In this episode of Dean’s Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Jensen welcomes Dr. Lee Rogers for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolution of diabetic foot care, career opportunities in podiatric medicine, and practical advice for new graduates entering today’s job market.
Episode Highlights
• The UT Health San Antonio Story
o The history and national impact of the podiatry service at UT Health San Antonio.
o How the program became a leader in diabetic foot research and multidisciplinary limb preservation.
o The role academic medicine has played in advancing both patient care and the profession of podiatric medicine.
• Research That Changes Practice
o The importance of clinical research in improving outcomes for patients with diabetes.
o Building collaborations across specialties to advance evidence-based care.
o Opportunities for podiatrists interested in academic medicine and research careers.
• Career Opportunities in Today’s Marketplace
o Navigating the diverse employment options available to today’s podiatric physicians, including:
Private practice
Academic medicine
Private equity-backed practices
Hospital-employed positions
Multispecialty medical groups
Orthopedic groups
o Advantages and challenges of each practice model.
o Factors new graduates should consider when evaluating employment opportunities.
• Employment Contracts: What Every Resident Should Know
o Understanding employment agreements before signing.
o The pros and cons of non-compete clauses.
o Why tail malpractice coverage matters—and who should pay for it.
o Additional contract provisions that deserve careful review.
o Practical advice for residents transitioning into their first professional position.
Whether you’re a student, resident, practicing podiatrist, or healthcare leader, this episode provides valuable insight into the future of diabetic limb preservation, the expanding career landscape in podiatric medicine, and the business realities facing new graduates.