We were lucky to catch up with Jeffrey Hammond recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jeffrey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the biggest professional risks I’ve taken was choosing to build my podiatry practice around a direct care model—a decision that goes against the grain in today’s insurance-driven medical world.

After completing my surgical residency, I saw firsthand how insurance bureaucracy often limited the care physicians could provide. Patients were rushed through appointments, advanced treatments were delayed or denied, and doctors were stuck coding and billing instead of treating. I knew there had to be a better way. So, I made the bold decision to open my own clinic—outside of the traditional insurance system.

It wasn’t a risk I took lightly. The direct care model is unfamiliar to many patients, and it can initially cause hesitation. But I believed deeply in the value of quality time, personalized care, and medical freedom, so I committed to the vision—and never looked back.

Because of this risk, I now get to spend 45 minutes with new patients, truly listening, diagnosing, and treating in a way that feels human again. Patients can call or text me directly, and they get real answers from their doctor, not a phone tree or a portal.

Even more exciting, I can now offer the most advanced, up-to-date treatments without waiting for insurance approvals. I do Sidas custom performance-enhancing orthotics in just 15 minutes with lab-grade precision. I offer MLS laser therapy for pain and inflammation, SWIFT microwave therapy for stubborn warts, and minimally invasive surgery when needed. We’re also the only clinic in Utah offering medical-safe pedicures—a full spa-quality experience paired with a doctor’s visit.

At the end of the day, this risk has paid off in the most meaningful way: patients get better care, and I get to practice medicine the way it was meant to be—thorough, compassionate, and cutting-edge. We’re a one-stop shop for foot and ankle care, and I’m proud to say that what once felt like a gamble is now the very thing that sets my practice apart.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I first discovered my passion for podiatry in an unexpected way—right after high school, I competed in my first triathlon. I crashed during the race and required medical attention at the finish line. That experience introduced me to a sports medicine doctor who later invited me to intern at his office. While working there, I witnessed firsthand the high volume of sports-related foot and ankle injuries. That exposure inspired me to pursue a career in podiatry, where I could combine sports medicine, surgical care, and general foot and ankle treatment to help a wide range of patients stay active and healthy.

I completed my residency training at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio, with a focus on advanced foot and ankle care. After residency, I spent a year dedicated to limb salvage and diabetic foot care—an intense but rewarding period that gave me deep experience in critical wound care and patient outcomes.

Following that, I relocated to Utah and spent the next year and a half as a full-time, stay-at-home dad while supporting my wife as she began her new career as a dermatologist. During that time, I was also working behind the scenes to build a podiatry practice centered on modern, patient-focused care—one that emphasizes prevention, innovation, and performance.

Today, I run a direct-care podiatry clinic that offers everything from sports medicine and regenerative treatments to medical-safe pedicures and custom orthotics created in-office using cutting-edge Sidas technology. I’ve been fortunate to work with a variety of professional athletes across multiple sports, including football, soccer, running, basketball, and even ultra-endurance racing.

In fact, one of the things I’m most proud of is my work with ultramarathoners—supporting them both before and during races, crewing at events, and making sure their feet are race-ready for the grueling demands of 50 to 100+ mile runs. I see this as a true fusion of my medical expertise and my passion for helping athletes perform at their best.

What sets my practice apart is a strong focus on preventative care, advanced technology, and personalized attention. I aim to change the way podiatry is delivered—making it more accessible, more effective, and more tailored to each person’s lifestyle, whether you’re a weekend warrior, a seasoned pro, or someone simply wanting to walk without pain.

Above all, I want potential clients and followers to know that I deeply care about outcomes. My mission is to help people move better, heal faster, and stay active doing what they love.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Beyond training and knowledge, I believe the most important ingredient for success in medicine—especially in podiatry—is genuinely caring for your patients. For me, that means treating every patient like family. When you have faith in your patients and make them feel like active participants in their healing journey, you build trust. That trust becomes the foundation for real progress and better outcomes.

I truly love seeing my patients succeed—whether it’s completing a sporting event, returning to work, or simply being able to walk comfortably around their neighborhood again. Those wins, big or small, are incredibly fulfilling.

At the end of the day, I believe success in any field—not just medicine—comes from caring sincerely about the people you serve. If you’re focused on helping people, not just making a sale or checking a box, you’ll naturally build something meaningful and lasting.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your firm or practice?

Starting my business was a unique and eye-opening experience—especially coming from a medical background with no formal training in finance. Building a business plan was honestly intimidating at first. Thankfully, I found some nonprofit organizations that offered guidance and resources to help me put together a solid plan. I threw myself into the process, working hard to make sure every detail was accounted for.

The next big step was seeking funding from banks. That part came with its ups and downs. Some banks wouldn’t even give me the time of day, which was discouraging. But others were much more open and willing to listen—and those conversations gave me the confidence to believe in my plan. Their interest and support made a huge difference.

Initially, I planned to lease a small space and grow gradually. But after thoroughly going through the business plan with the bank, it became clear that purchasing an office condo suite would actually be a better long-term investment. That shift in mindset, from leasing to owning, was a turning point. It allowed me to create a practice environment tailored specifically to my vision—focused on high-quality, personalized foot and ankle care.

I first worked with Hillcrest Bank in Utah and had a fantastic experience with one of their bankers. After the loan closed, that banker moved to a different bank—and because we had built such a great relationship, I followed him there. We were actually able to get better terms on my loans and continue growing the business together. That relationship was key. Having a specific banker I could call, ask questions, and share concerns with—not just dealing with a big faceless institution—was incredibly valuable.

In the end, it wasn’t just about funding. It was about building relationships, staying persistent, and believing in the vision even when the process was tough. That’s what helped me bring this practice to life—and feel truly confident in what I’m building.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hammondfootandankle.com
• Instagram: hammondfootandankle and jeff.r.hammond
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552451811740
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-hammond-a0711521/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realfootdoctor
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/hammond-foot-and-ankle-provo
• Other: TikTok: the.foot.doctor

Image Credits

Heather Telford