In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Joe Sciortino, a Maltese podiatrist, to discuss the state of podiatry in Malta, his career journey, and some of the unique challenges he faces working in a smaller healthcare system. If you’re curious about podiatry abroad, this episode is packed with insights.
Podiatry in Malta: A Growing Profession
Podiatry in Malta, like many countries, has evolved over the years. While the profession was once seen merely as a solution for routine foot care, it’s rapidly becoming recognised for its broader scope, including expertise in musculoskeletal conditions, sports medicine, and advanced technologies. Joe shares how he’s helping change this perception by offering services like ultrasound and specialized foot and ankle treatments, which are still relatively new to the Maltese healthcare market.
With about 120-130 podiatrists in Malta and a population of around half a million, podiatry is a relatively saturated field. However, Joe highlights that it’s an exciting time to be a podiatrist in Malta, as the profession continues to gain respect and recognition for its full range of capabilities.
From Graduate to Private Practice
Joe’s career journey is a testament to the power of seeking opportunities beyond one’s comfort zone. After graduating from the University of Malta in 2019, he spent time working in the UK, where he completed his master’s in sports and exercise medicine. His time in the UK not only gave him a broader perspective on podiatry but also introduced him to a new network of mentors and colleagues, which he continues to leverage in his work today.
While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, including navigating the public’s perception of podiatry and the complexities of opening a new practice, Joe’s determination has kept him on track. He talks about how essential it is to start one’s career in a supportive and dynamic work environment, which in his case included joining a multidisciplinary team in South Wales.
Bringing Change to Malta’s Podiatry Landscape
Joe’s return to Malta wasn’t just about personal growth; it was also about contributing to the advancement of podiatry in his home country. By opening his own practice in collaboration with his parents’ health and wellness clinic, he’s making strides in reshaping how people view podiatry services. He emphasizes the importance of educating patients on the full range of treatments and services podiatrists provide, not just routine foot care.
He also touches on the power of branding and marketing, which can be particularly impactful in a market where podiatry is still finding its identity. Joe’s goal is to connect with his patients, improve their lives, and create a practice that’s synonymous with excellence in podiatric care. He’s also keen to pass on his knowledge and experiences to other podiatrists, aiming to be a mentor and positive influence within the Maltese podiatry community.
The Importance of Networking in Podiatry
In this episode, Joe reflects on how networking and maintaining relationships with other podiatrists can significantly impact your career. Whether it’s a simple coffee meet-up or attending industry conferences, being open to new connections can lead to valuable opportunities. Joe shares how his relationships with other podiatrists, both local and international, have helped him grow professionally.
As Joe points out, it’s crucial to stay connected with the podiatry community. Whether through social media or attending events, the connections you make today can shape your career tomorrow.
Call to Action: Connect with Joe Sciortino
If you’re interested in learning more about podiatry in Malta or have questions for Joe, he invites you to connect with him on his social media channels. You can find him on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn, where he’s happy to chat with fellow podiatrists or answer questions about his work in Malta.
I hope you enjoy today’s episode! As always, don’t forget to subscribe to the Podiatry Legends Podcast and leave us a review. If you have any questions or topics you’d like to see covered, feel free to reach out on social media or via email. Keep striving for greatness in your podiatric journey!
Links to Connect with Joe Sciortino:
- LinkedIn: Joe Sciortino
- Email: j.sciortino.podiatrist@gmail.com
If you have any questions about this podcast episode or are looking for a speaker for an upcoming event, please email me at tyson@podiatrylegends.com, and we can discuss the range of topics I cover.
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