Experiencing foot care in Stoke-on-Trent

We have had feedback that the time between appointments is getting longer and longer and that recent changes to podiatry are making the service increasingly less accessible.

Due to demand for the service, patients have been offered appointments at other clinics, but some of the clinics are a long way away and appointments are being scheduled for early in the morning, meaning some people can’t get there.

Also, no additional podiatrists have been recruited and so there are still no appointments available within the follow up window.  

“Why does the provider state that things will be better because extra podiatrists are being taken on, then the extra staff don’t materialise?” 

People with wounds who would previously have been seen by other professionals are now being sent to podiatry and they are getting priority. This is further disadvantaging those who need routine appointments within a certain timeframe. When routine follow ups are not being delivered, it leads to bigger problems for the individual.  
 

“The ones in charge should take into consideration the importance of routine treatment and not just pushing the people who need these to one side.”  

“It is never ever the staff; it is always the system. And it is the system that is failing those in need.”  

In theory, there is a podiatry service in the City, but in reality there are no appointments available within recommended follow up times. The gap between appointments is growing longer, they are being extended by one or two months, which makes a big difference to someone who depends on the service to maintain a full and active life.