Under-strain podiatry service reduces workload

Isle of Man residents who have medical problems with their feet may have to look elsewhere for help, as the Department of Health tightens criteria for treatment.

The Island's Podiatry Service carried out 14,250 treatments last year but is now saying some patients could be at risk, because it is under too much strain.

In order to deal with the increasing caseload the service will be tightening the criteria for admissions.

The Department of Health says the Podiatry Service is close to being dangerously overloaded and, in order to continue to provide the best service possible to those who need it most, lower priority cases may not now receive treatment.

The higher importance cases will include people suffering from diabetes and foot ulcers, and patients needing nail surgery.

The department hopes the move to tighter criteria will reduce waiting lists and allow the most efficient diagnosis of urgent cases.

Podiatry services are provided at eight clinics around the Island.