Diabetic Foot Problems: Prevention and Management

Excerpt

Despite the publication of strategies on commissioning specialist services for preventing and managing diabetic foot problems, there is variation in practice across different NHS settings, and amputation rates still vary up to fourfold in the UK.

This variation in practice results from a range of factors including differing levels of organisation of care for people with diabetes and diabetic foot problems. This variability depends on geography, individual trusts, individual specialties (such as the organisation and access of the diabetic foot care services) and availability of healthcare professionals with expertise in the management of diabetic foot problems.

The implementation of foot care screening programmes is still varied across the UK, and there is currently a lack of guidance on foot screening strategies aimed at children and young people with diabetes. There is a need for comprehensive guidance on foot care for people with diabetes that addresses all NHS settings.