Understanding Podiatry Advertising Laws in New Mexico: What You Need to Know

Here’s a blog article based on N.M. Admin. Code § 16.21.1.14 – Advertising Guidelines for Podiatrists that educates podiatric professionals on advertising compliance in New Mexico. The article is structured to be informative, SEO-friendly, and accessible for healthcare providers or practice managers.

Understanding Podiatry Advertising Laws in New Mexico: What You Need to Know

Staying compliant with state regulations isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a cornerstone of ethical marketing. If you’re a podiatrist practicing in New Mexico, the New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC) § 16.21.1.14 outlines specific advertising guidelines you must follow to maintain transparency and trust with your patients.

Here’s a breakdown of what this regulation entails—and how to make sure your marketing checks all the right boxes.

📢 The Basics: What Must Be Included in Every Ad

Whether you’re publishing a digital ad, creating a brochure, or airing a radio commercial, New Mexico law requires every podiatry-related advertisement to include:

• The podiatrist’s full name or the medical group’s name

• The physical address of your practice

• A working telephone number

These elements are mandated under the Health Care Advertising Act (Section 57-27-1 NMSA 1978) to promote transparency and help patients easily verify provider legitimacy.

Tip: Always double-check that this information is clear and visible across all platforms—websites, social media, business cards, and print media.

🩺 Advertising a Specialty? Here’s What You Need to Qualify

Not all podiatrists can legally promote themselves as specialists. To advertise a specialty practice in New Mexico, you must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Board Certified or Board Eligible

You can advertise your specialty if you are certified (or eligible for certification) by a recognized certifying board.

➡️ Important: If you use an abbreviation (like ABPM or ABFAS), you must also include the full name of the certifying board in your ad.

2. Fellow or Associate of a Specialty Organization

You may also advertise a specialty if you are a fellow or associate of a professional organization that admits members based on an examination process.

➡️ Again, if you reference the organization by acronym, make sure the full name is included for clarity and compliance.

⚠️ Why This Matters

These guidelines are in place to protect both patients and practitioners. Misleading or incomplete advertising can lead to:

• Disciplinary action

• Loss of license

• Damage to professional reputation

By ensuring your advertising is accurate and aligned with the NMAC, you’re not just avoiding penalties—you’re building a trustworthy brand that patients can rely on.

✅ How to Stay Compliant

Here’s a quick checklist to keep your marketing materials in line with New Mexico law:

• Include full name or group name

• Add your physical address

• Provide a valid phone number

• Only advertise specialties if properly certified

• Spell out any certifying boards or organizations used in abbreviations

Final Thoughts

Marketing in the medical space requires more than just creativity—it demands compliance. If you’re unsure whether your advertising meets the requirements, consult your legal counsel or reach out to the New Mexico Medical Board for clarification.

Remember: The most effective marketing is both persuasive and professional.

Need help creating compliant marketing for your podiatry practice?

Let our team of healthcare marketing experts assist you—so you can focus on delivering exceptional care while we handle the strategy.

📩 Contact us today to get started.