AL SB371

Expands the scope of podiatry practice in Alabama to include treatment of disorders of both the foot and ankle, rather than the foot alone.

Adds comprehensive definitions of "foot and ankle" to specify anatomical boundaries, including 28 bony structures and the ankle joint consisting of the distal tibia, fibula, talus, and surrounding soft tissue structures.

Requires podiatric physicians who surgically treat bony ankle ailments to have completed at least 24 months of post-graduate residency training approved by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education of the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Maintains existing restrictions prohibiting podiatrists from amputating the entire foot or leg, performing surgery above the ankle joint, or administering anesthetics other than local anesthetics.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.