In Massachusetts, can a podiatrist practice within a professional corporation?

• A. No; podiatrists cannot practice in professional corporations
• B. Yes, but ownership and control must be held by licensed podiatrists or as allowed by state law
• C. Yes; any ownership structure is allowed
• D. Only physicians may own professional corporations

Answer: (B)

In Massachusetts, podiatrists can practice within a professional corporation, but there are strict ownership and control rules. The key idea is that the corporate practice of professional services requires that those who own and run the practice are licensed professionals in the same field. So, a professional corporation that provides podiatric services must have ownership and control held by licensed podiatrists (or as allowed by state law). This ensures clinical decisions and professional standards stay under professional oversight, not strained by non-licensed investors.

Non-licensed individuals can’t own or control the professional practice, and the structure must align with Massachusetts professional corporation statutes and any related board regulations. Ownership by podiatrists or other licensed professionals is permitted, while unrestricted ownership by non-physician/non-podiatrist entities is not. If there are any additional niche provisions, they’re specified by state law, so the phrase “as allowed by state law” covers those nuances.

In short, yes—the practice can operate inside a professional corporation, provided ownership and management are held by licensed podiatrists in accordance with Massachusetts law.