Podiatry Week 2023: The All-Encompassing Profession
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It’s Podiatry Week 2023!
This year’s theme is ‘Podiatry: More than you think’ – an invitation for everyone to rethink, re-evaluate, and rediscover the vast expanse of the allied health profession. The theme challenges the general public’s perception of this crucial medical field, revealing its comprehensive scope and its often-understated impact on our lives.
The All-Encompassing Role of Podiatrists
While foot health is at the core of what podiatrist do, their role encompasses so much more. They diagnose, manage, and treat disorders, injuries, and pains not just of the foot but also the ankle and the broader lower limb spectrum. From bunions and heel spurs to sprains and fractures, from nerve disorders to circulatory issues, the range of conditions they handle is vast.
The ubiquity of podiatrists across the health sector is testament to their versatile role. They are everywhere helping people from all walks of life – private practices, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, community health services and residential aged care.
HCA Allied Health is the leading provider of Allied Health services in the aged care sector with skilled and passionate podiatrists servicing their residents across the country.
Keep reading for thoughts from 3 of our wonderful podiatrists across 3 states as they share their love for their profession and the joys of being an Aged Care Podiatrist.
From QLD: Margot and her love for her residents
“Many tend to underestimate the profound impact foot care can have on our elderly community. We are more than just foot experts; we are a crucial lifeline to those in the twilight of their lives.
Managing foot care, collaborating with care teams for wounds and skin tears, and being immersed amongst our elderly clients who often come with stories and experiences that span epochs with lessons that can only be taught by life. Listening to them, while providing care, is a humbling experience that has deeply enriched my life.
To anyone curious, unaware or considering a career in Aged Care podiatry, know this – it is not just a job to trim and file feet. It brings out patience and empathy while being able to continue developing skills in wound and skin care.
Working with HCA Allied Health has been energising for me and I’m proud to lead a team with a company that values growth, innovation and most importantly, compassion.”
From NSW: Sean Invites Us into a Day in His Life
“Each day as an Aged Care Podiatrist has the potential to be different and there is a great sense of pride in being advocates of elderly care. Here’s a peak into a day of my life – where me, my team and my residents grow together.”
6:00 – 8:30: Wake up, head for a run or a swim (if the weather allows) and have breakfast while I think about the day’s tasks. And then off to my homes!
8:30 – 9:00: Print the resident list for the day (never more than 20!), receive the handover from the staff on-site and network with the locals.
9:00 – 12:00: See 10-12 of my lovely residents in the morning – a variety of routine cards, wound care, diabetic assessments and follow-ups.
12:00 – 12:30: Time to grab a coffee and a quick bite to eat!
12:30 – 3:30: See 8-10 more residents for the afternoon sessions, some quick reviews and handover to the staff.
3:30 – 4:30: Make some clinical notes and referrals and plan for the next day!
“My favourite part of the day? Helping my residents and learning from them – it’s a win-win!”
From VIC: Jonathan is Excited for the Future of Podiatry
“The rest of 2023 and the years ahead hold great promise, and I’m particularly eager to establish meaningful connections with other podiatrists, creating a network of shared experiences and knowledge to shine light on the importance of Podiatry.
Together with my current team (and future additions!), I wish to navigate the evolving landscape of podiatric care in aged facilities, striving for excellence and improved well-being so that the elderly community can stand tall and happy on their feet!”
Here’s to Podiatrists across the country – we thank you for your contribution to the overall health of the community. We are proud to be a small part of the Podiatry movement in Australia.
