So, this is probably one of the biggest problems in Podiatry- Brand recognition. A good chunk of the population, especially outside of urban metropolitan/highly populated Pod areas, don't realize that we have the same 4-4-3 model as MD/DO (4 years undergrad, 4 years graduate medical education, 3 years residency).
I think the extent of the problem is a tad over stated- people tend to find a Podiatrist when they need one. Most GP's have no problem referring to a Podiatrist for pathologies of the lower extremity.
That being said.... there are murmurings amongst the APMA of a name change for our field.
Many private clinics have changed their names from "Springfield Podiatry" to "Springfield Foot & Ankle Specialists". No room for confusion on the latter name.
TL;DR- problem is a bit overstated, but a problem nonetheless- potentially major change coming to address it.