Do the elderly have any idea?...

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Of the standards of decontamination that are required to do our jobs properly/in accordance with legislation? What may be required in a court of law as proof that we were doing things correctly!

Of the overheads that are required in keeping registered with the HPC (CPD for example)?

What the consequences of going without treatment are?

It's strange that they "blink an eyelid" at the cost of having their feet done, but the cost of a perm doesn't make them cringe. I woudl say that we have much tougher regs than hairdressers!

I would say that the H&S implications of plumbing/gas heater work are justifiably strict, look at how much they will charge for a call out/hourly rate, yet people do not blink an eyelid. With a chiropodist they do!

 

No.

We (as individuals and as professional bodies) have to do everything we can to educate them.

I recall visiting a dentist many years ago and seeing a sign that said something like "we now autoclave all instruments used in treatment in accordance with the law and best practice".

They have to be educated that their are costs associated with that. But, I have tried, only to be told recently by one patient "all that, just for a corn" :craig:

 

I agree. Especially interesting that they claim their podiatry appointment takes up 1/2 their pension when the other 1/2 clearly is spent on cigarettes.

I have tried explaining the costs to one such lady. After listing off the costs of everything in sight (and mentioning i'd travelled near to 300km to see her) she just said "well thats your choice now isnt it dear. You didnt have to be a podiatrist!"

 

P.S. dont usually rant at my patients, but she had suggested i should be ashamed of myself for "scamming an old lady just to buy a new sports car".

 

From a quick ring around, I've determined that my charges for general podiatry are the highest in the area, but the pensioners are happy to pay this - as long as they feel they get a really thorough treatment for their money. Do what they need done, check pulses, tell them why you're doing this, check for moles and tell them, sand their skin, swab between toes with tea tree oil - tell them it's helpful against fungal infection, a two minute massage (within a twenty minute appointment) adds irrefutable value, pad a problematic corn, discuss surgical options vs regular treatment - emphasize our professional knowledge.
I always strive to do more than 'just a corn' - and warrant my charges. Everyone's happy.