Western Isles Podiatry Services.

The Western Isles Podiatry Services are based in the Western Isles Hospital, Isle of Lewis. There are 2 clinics in the hospital, in the Rehabilitation department and within the Diabetes centre. We also provide services in the Uist and Barra Hospital and most GP practices in rural Lewis, Harris, Uists, Benbecula and Barra.

It is recommended that all patients diagnosed with diabetes should have their feet screened for complications at least annually (SIGN 55, Scottish Diabetes Framework)

The Podiatry department aim to see all patients within 9 weeks of referral.

We currently operate an open referral service. Referral forms can be obtained from all GP practices or by phoning the Podiatry Department on 01851 708285. Phones are manned between 9.15 - 10.15 am and 2.00 -3.00 pm. An answering machine service is operated at all other times and is checked regularly.

Patients can be seen locally by Community Podiatrists in most GP practices. Patients requiring specialist treatment will be referred to the diabetes centre to be seen by a High Risk Specialist Podiatrist.

A Foot Ulcer Clinic operates every Wednesday afternoon and a High Risk Clinic most Thursdays. Patients referred into these clinics and who have mobility difficulties can access patient transport via their GP surgeries.

Following a pilot project most patients have had annual foot screening carried out in combination with retinal screening in Sept - Oct 05. Screening of patients this year is under review by the podiatry services and the local diabetes managed clinical network.

All newly diagnosed patients will be offered screening at their requested location.
Priority is given to all patients newly diagnosed with diabetes, paediatric patients and patients with identified foot complications.

Foot problems are the commonest cause of admission to hospital in patients with diabetes (SIGN 55) therefore it is essential that all patients receive information which enables them to care for their feet and report problems quickly. When you attend the podiatrist you will be given information specifically for your OWN foot-care, and if you require treatment this will be arranged.

The Podiatry department will respond to all patients with severe ulceration/sepsis within 48 hours.

'If in doubt get it checked out'

Patient information leaflets on foot care can be accessed at

http://www.diabetes-healthnet.ac.uk/