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Samantha Hall, DPM FFPM RCPS (Glasg) is a diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and highly accomplished podiatric physician. Dr. Hall serves on the examinations committee in the In-Training Exams subsection. The committee is charged with developing coherent and relevant exams for podiatric residents to assess their performance and learning within the program and for eventual Board Certification with the ABPM. Dr. Hall is a graduate of Lourdes College and the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. She completed her residency at Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, OH, and has since practiced in private practice in Massachusetts, Ohio, Tennessee, and most recently, Texas.
What inspired you to become a podiatrist?
I was unsure of what I wanted to do as a career, but knew I wanted to go into medicine. I had heard about Podiatry but was unsure what they did on a day to day basis. I ended up getting a job as a medical assistant for a local podiatry group while I was in undergrad. I loved it from the first day. I was impressed by all the different options you have as a podiatrist, and I loved that most patients left feeling better after their appointment. I knew within the first week of that job that I was meant to be in this profession.
What role do you believe podiatrists play in the overall healthcare system?
Podiatrists play a large role in overall health care. Sometimes we are the first to identify something larger going on in the body. So many different conditions manifest in the feet. Also, we are an important member of the diabetic health care team. I think if we can start as soon as possible to help our patients understand the importance of daily movement we can prevent a lot of devastating complications in both our diabetic and non-diabetic patients.
What do you find most rewarding about being a podiatrist?
It is no secret that I love being a podiatrist. So many aspects of this career are rewarding that I cannot pick just one. I love when we watch a diabetic ulcer heal, or prevent an amputation. I also love watching an athlete of mine overcome an injury they did not think they could and watch them accomplish the goal they have set out to achieve. I love that I get to go to work every day and have the privilege of helping my patients get over whatever condition is affecting them. Getting to watch and be part of the process is just as beneficial for me as it is for them
What strategies do you use to avoid burnout?
Burnout is a real thing. My strategy to avoid burnout starts with going to the gym every morning before work. It helps me start my day right. I also try to unplug when I am not at the office. I have set boundaries with work which are hard, but necessary. I have a very supporting husband and a group of friends that support me as well. I live far from my family so having a supportive community around me is important.
Please share a little more about any recent podiatric accolades.
Most recently I was admitted into the Ryal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow as a fellow faculty of podiatric medicine. I was able to travel to Scotland in June for the ceremony and that was a very humbling experience and such an honor.
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