June 11, 2007

Canadian Doctor Elected As International President

For the first time in its 60 year history, the Fédération Internationale des Podologues (FIP) has elected a Canadian to serve as its president. The FIP represents 22 countries on five continents. It consists of over 70,000 members who treat over 150 million foot episodes a year.

Robert Chelin, a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.), who practices in Toronto, Ontario, was elected to the position as part of the 2007 Annual General Meeting that was held in Copenhagen, Denmark on May 25, 2007.  He had previously served as Vice President of the FIP for the past two years, and has been involved with the organization since Canada became a member in 2000.

“It is truly an honour to serve as President of the Federation Internationale des Podologues and one that I take very seriously,” said Chelin. “The FIP has made many positive inroads in enhancing foot care and foot health awareness and I will continue to expand on this important initiative as well as encourage the globalization of the podiatric profession.

Dr. Chelin has a long history of enhancing and promoting the podiatry profession. He served as President of the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association from 1999 to 2004, and as the President of the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association from 1997-1999.

As President of the FIP, Dr. Chelin will carry on the organization’s goals of global leadership and the development of podiatric medicine at an international level.  This includes bringing much-needed foot care to under-developed countries and helping to regulate and enhance the role of podiatrists around the world. 

For more information about Robert Chelin or the FIP, please visit www.fipnet.org or contact: