Podiatry services across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have begun scaling up capacity, using a phased approach which prioritises patients depending on clinical requirements.
Alongside emergency footcare treatment, which continued throughout the pandemic, the service is now inviting existing patients who would normally attend every four weeks, to return for their regular treatment. These patients will be contacted directly and offered an appointment.
New patients will receive a telephone consultation to identify their foot problem. From that consultation, they may be offered advice, a Near Me video consultation or face-to-face treatment if required.
Existing patients who would normally attend the service between every five and eight weeks, will be invited to return to for regular treatments from September.
Following September, where the capacity is available, treatment for those existing patients who normally receive consultations every nine – 16 weeks will recommence.
It is anticipated that the service will be back operating at full capacity by April next year, however, the phased approach being taken now will ensure all priority patients are treated, and receive the care required when then they need it.
David Wylie, Head of Podiatry for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said:
“Our recovery plan is now in place and we have carefully implemented all of the measures required to ensure we’re able to see regular patients once again in a safe and effective manner, and ensuring that patients with the most urgent needs do not have to wait long periods of time.
“Our scale-up is gradual. We have to do this for physical distancing and safety reasons, but we’re confident that the new schedule in place, with the support of technology such as Near Me, will enable us to move back to full capacity as quickly as possible, when we are able to treat more patients every month.”
Patients can also access the Podiatry services website where there is a range information about self-care and other helpful resources. This can be viewed here.