Podiatry Assistants – Who are they and what do they do?
The assistant practitioner is the Podiatry support worker often referred to as a Podiatry assistant or a Foot Care Assistant. The title and main responsibilities of the role are determined by the employing Podiatrist in private practice. While the scope of their role is dependant on training and experience.
Randell’s Footcare have two Podiatry Assistants, Christine and Nicky, working in some of our clinics throughout North Norfolk. Both Christine and Nicky came to us from nursing careers and have worked with Randell’s Footcare for many years. During their time with us they have followed a training programme completed through the Podiatry Association and Randell’s Footcare, covering both practical and academic study. This has given them fantastic knowledge and experience that means they are able to provide a first class service to all of their patients.
Podiatry assistants provide general health foot care. This includes nail cutting/filing, reduction of thick nail plates, management of ingrowing nail, removal and reduction of light callus. Along with an assessment and promotion of foot health, including nail plate health, circulation, diabetes and skin conditions for example Athlete’s Foot (fungal skin infection).
How it works within our organisation
Podiatry assistants work independently, but in close contact with podiatrists. This ensures that any problems you may present are assessed, discussed and referred on for expert treatment quickly and easily. We are often able to accommodate this within the same clinic as your regular appointments.
An appointment with the podiatry assistant is a more affordable solution to maintaining good foot health. The podiatrist will see the patient initially for a full assessment and if suitable they can then be referred on to the podiatry assistant for regular appointments. Alternatively they can alternate their foot care between the assistant and podiatrist. Patients who see the podiatry assistant on a regular basis will be required to see the podiatrist annually. This is a legal requirement, however the assistants will always refer you on to a podiatrist whenever they detect a problem outside their remit.
Our podiatry assistants Nicky and Christine both gained academic and practical training through HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) registered podiatrists and the Royal College of Podiatry before completing both written and practical exams. They both have a firm foundation of medical knowledge and experience behind them.
Contact us today to arrange your appointment with one of Nicky or Christine! Or speak to your podiatrist about referring you to this service!
