G'day to all who have contributed to this discussion.

  A number of very valid and valuable points have been raised in connection with level of practise. As I do not speak for all academics neither can we accept that all podiatrists practise within the Mindset described ,and I know no one suggests that to be the case. The question whether the first year of the podiatry course is possibly responsible for creating a maintenance attitude I would suggest is incorrect. This makes the assumption that the subsequent years teach more of the same philosophy. If that is the case then I think it wise for such a course to close the front door and think about doing something else. It might be an interesting exercise to determine whether this Mindset is peculiar to those completing a three year program as opposed to graduates of a four year program.
Maybe the problem lies in the comfort zone where people feel happy about their level of practice, are good at it and have no intention in being involved in anything more demanding or indeed potentially more problematic especially if earning an acceptable income.
I agree with Anthony and have believed for some time our profession ,certainly in Australia needs professional Post Graduate Fellowships which clearly demonstrates individual ability,expertise and qualification at advanced level. We currently have a Professional Doctorate on offer through this University so why not have our profession confer Fellowships in particular areas of practice to demonstrate a higher level of achievement .
Some thought should also be given to the fact that study beyond the three or four year U/G level demands a commitment  on time which may mean a reduction in practice hours and therefore income, which may not be attractive to the practitioner. Our experience suggests that if a Continuing Education course is offered with a strong clinical content ,the course is over .prescribed. A purely academic course is not so appealing.
We have just had a successful Podiatry Educators Conference in Canberra prior to the start of our National Conference. Those attending would have enjoyed listening to presentations and general discussion on "life in our Universities". The point being it was academic staff talking to academic staff. When last did open debate. on educational matters play any significant part of a national conference where all can participate or at least hear what is currently being considered at the university level. Maybe if their was more dialogue we would be better prepared at all levels to meet current professional demands but also have through discussion and planning a better vision for future levels of podiatry practice.

Alan Crawford
Queensland University of Technology
Brisbane

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