Barriers to public podiatry in NZ

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Hi Guys.

I work approx 12 hrs per week in the public system with "high risk" feet etc.

The number of Pts I can see is limited by $ etc.... is there anywhere (DHB) in NZ that has a subsidised Public service where the Pts pay a small fee?

Does anyone feel this would encourage Pod usage by those in Lesser economic areas? I know it would take work away privately, however those on breadline (or very careful with money) would surely come out of the wood work and then you would get a better idea of real foot health stats in NZ?

Any ideas?

(Go Sting!!!)

Cheers

Joe

 

Hi Joe

You may be interested to know that on the current service spec's ,documents your dhb will have,the Date for review is Oct 2007.
The review of the service specs is a joint DHB/MOH activity run out of DHB Planing and Funding in the MOH.
Possibly your DHB may be consulted about this? it may be worthwhile to be involved in.

I don't feel a part charge service would encourage low socioeconomic groups to access podiatry. There are many barriers at work that limit access. These include transport, site of service provision, lack of awareness amongst other health professionals.lack of awareness amongst consumers and services not clearly identifying there service focus.

Regards

Greg

 

Hi Joe

In Chch we have embarked on a joint initiative with the local PHO which has funding for improved access to services for patients with Type 2 diabetes to access funded private podiatry. I think similar things are happening in various spots around the country, Hutt Valley, Auck and Hawkes Bay.

Must admit it is not without a few headaches and as yet there are still some teething problems. We will see patients on GP referral and can onward referral to the Diabetes Centre for problems with High Risk feet. The visits will be fully funded as part funding was not considered appropriate for similar reasons to Gregs comments.

Your Local Diabetes Team may be able to shed some light on how to access the funding along with your local PHO.
Cheers
Charlotte

 

Thanks for your info guys, will see how things go in future

cheers

Joe