In efforts to reduce avoidable disabilities, amputations and complications linked to chronic conditions, the Gauteng Department of Health is beefing up access to podiatry services, with 61 podiatrists now providing specialised foot and ankle care in 11 hospitals and five health districts, reports TimesLIVE.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said the services were aimed at diabetics, people with circulatory disorders, HIV, TB and other chronic conditions, while also supporting children, older people and patients requiring rehabilitation and assistive devices.
During the 2025/26 financial year, podiatrists consulted 63 046 patients and screened 34 245 people, including 14 572 diabetics. A total of 9 154 therapeutic devices were also issued to help prevent disability, improve function and maintain independence.
Since April, the department has recorded more than 25 044 diabetes-related consultations and conducted 15 267 wound-management interventions, Mabona said, adding that it was also expanding outreach programmes and improving referral pathways.
In line with World Podiatry Day on October 8 – under the theme “Feet carry every culture” – people with diabetes, circulatory disorders and other chronic conditions are urged to have regular foot screenings, the department said.
TimesLIVE article – Gauteng expands podiatry care to curb disability (Restricted access)
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