In an exploratory study conducted for the Women's Action Program of HEW, the aims were to identify and explore the barriers to success that women face as MODVOPPP (Medicine, Osteopathic medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary medicine, Optometry, Podiatry, Pharmacy, and Public health) school applicants and students, and to describe the discrimination process, if any, that limits women's entry into the health professions. In this volume on podiatry, the profession's history, work focus, organization, and women's roles and status in it are reported. Current trends, issues, directions, and major changes in professional education are reviewed, and the professional training sequence (steps, requirements, criteria, and key factors) are outlined. The students' characteristics, along with what the profession is looking for in new members, are described. Special recommendations for the professional associations and for the schools are made, and statistical data, interview responses, and a bibliography are also included. (LBH)