APMA News - January/February 2022 - 62

development update
Highlighting Today's Most
Outstanding Student Scholars:
10 Minutes with Ali Qadri, DPM
Each year, the APMA Educational Foundation awards scholarships to exceptional third- and fourth-year
podiatric medical students. In this issue, we sat down with Ali Qadri, DPM, a graduate of Temple University
School of Podiatric Medicine, Class of 2021, and recipient of the PICA Distinguished Scholar Award
scholarship in 2020-2021. Dr. Qadri is currently a resident at Detroit Medical Center.
Ali Qadri, DPM
APMA News: How did you get interested in
podiatric medicine?
Dr. Qadri: In my junior year of college, I suddenly
developed left foot pain. I visited an orthopedic
surgeon who prescribed me crutches and Tylenol
#3 but had no explanation for my pain. My PCP
suggested I see a podiatrist the next day. The
podiatrist diagnosed me with peroneal tendon
subluxation. He recommended a brace that worked
so well that I was able to discontinue crutches after
a week. Then what solidified my desire to be
podiatrist was the untimely passing of my uncle with
diabetes one year after a hallux amputation. Early
medical intervention could have prevented a simple
stubbed toe from causing his demise. I was drawn
to the hands-on aspects of podiatry, like surgery,
wound care, and limb salvage. As the son of an
automobile mechanic, I enjoyed helping my dad fix
cars as a child; podiatry allows me to care for
patients in much the same way.
APMA News: Who are your heroes, and why?
Dr. Qadri: I really look up to my dad. When he
immigrated to the United States, he was 34, had a
young family, and knew very little English. He
always instilled in my siblings and me the importance
of education. With hard work, determination,
and grit, we could achieve whatever we wanted to
if we worked for it. He has gone from that young
immigrant to a 64-year-old who is fluent in English
and four other languages and who recently retired.
My dad instilled in me a curious mind that is not
afraid to work and go the extra mile even when
times get rough. He continues to impress me, and
I can only hope to be like him in everything I do.
APMA News: What do you think is the most
pressing issue in public health and/or podiatric
medicine? Why?
Dr. Qadri: In my opinion, it is access to quality
medical care and, most importantly, educating
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
patients on their conditions such as diabetes and
the long-term effects of not having it treated
adequately. An interdisciplinary approach needs to
be taken, such as is taken when treating cancer. I
think if we treated diabetes as aggressively as we
do cancer, we would not see so many complications
and ill effects. Patient buy-in is also key, and
having caring, competent, and non-judgmental
clinicians can play a major role in helping patients
buy into their care. In my limited experience as a
resident, I have realized that open and honest
communication can go a long way in treating
patients, and taking the time to answer questions
can go a long way toward patients adhering to
their treatment plan.
APMA News: What qualities do you see in physicians
you admire?
Dr. Qadri: I greatly admire physicians who are
competent yet caring. I believe everyone is
competent, but caring is something from within
and cannot be taught. Having had the opportunity
to work with patients of all backgrounds, l appreciate
culturally sensitive physicians.
APMA News: Are you working on any medical
projects or research?
Dr. Qadri: I am currently involved in several
medical projects. Some of the projects look at
gunshot wounds, one is on diabetic limb salvage,
and another is on carcinomas.
APMA News: What are your hobbies or interests?
Dr. Qadri: I enjoy cooking, learning about
different cultures/history, playing the tablas (Indian
hand percussion instrument), running, CrossFit®
and traveling.
,
APMA News: What has been your biggest challenge?
Dr. Qadri: The biggest challenge so far has been
learning that it's okay to take a break.

APMA News - January/February 2022

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