Dr. Michael Bahlatzis, Bassett Podiatric Surgeon, Garners National Honor

Bassett Healthcare Network announced on November 11 that Dr. Michael Bahlatzis has been elected to the Board of Directors of the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons (ASPS). Dr. Bahlatzis is an attending podiatric surgeon at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, New York.

“I am truly honored to serve on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons. After being a surgeon for 35 years and a retired Air Force medical officer (20 of these years with the Bassett Healthcare Network) it is with enthusiasm and energy that I wish to continue to serve and care for our patients at Bassett,” said Dr. Bahlatzis. “It is encouraging to know that our rural area will be represented on a national level through participation in this esteemed organization.”

Dr. Bahlatzis added: “It is with humility that I serve on this Board to continue to promote the highest standards and excellence in foot and ankle surgery. I have always adhered to the belief that patients come first.”

Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, President & CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network, said: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Bahlatzis on this significant appointment and achievement. We are fortunate to have him represent Bassett’s ongoing national leadership role in fostering healthy rural communities.”

Dr. Bahlatzis earned his medical degrees: D.P.M. from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine, M.D. from UHSA School of Medicine, Antigua, and P.A. from the Hudson Valley-Albany Medical College PA Program. He completed his residency at West Roxbury/Brockton VA Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts, and earned a B.S. from Excelsior University (formerly Regents College) in Albany, New York.

Dr. Bahlatzis holds fellowships and certifications from American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, American Society of Podiatric Surgeons, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, American Podiatric Medical Association, and is a member of the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. He is a retired military medical officer (LT. Colonel) USAF/NYANG and former USAF AFMC Command Consultant for the specialty of podiatry.

Established in 2009, the ASPS was created to serve as the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) surgical affiliate. Dedicated to podiatric surgical excellence in education and research, ASPS advances the profession of practitioners who are dedicated to surgery of the foot, ankle, and related structures to increase optimal results for improved patient outcomes. As the only official surgical affiliate of the APMA, ASPS represents the interests of both organization’s members.

About Bassett Healthcare Network
Bassett Healthcare Network is an integrated health system that provides care and services to people living in a 5,600 square mile region in upstate New York. The organization includes five corporately affiliated hospitals, over two dozen community-based health centers, more than 20 school-based health centers, two skilled nursing facilities, and other health partners in related fields. To learn more about services available throughout the Bassett Healthcare Network, visit www.bassett.org. Follow Bassett on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Bassett Healthcare Network is an equal opportunity provider and employer.