In the UK, the answer is NO - Only a Medical Doctor with the letters MBBS, MBCHB after their name or someone who has a Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D can call themselves a `Doctor`. Podiatric surgeons are Podiatrists that have gone on to qualify as surgeons who specialise in foot surgery, they work within the NHS and Private practice.

Yes, usually and appointments can be offered that week, unless holidays/illness cause a delay.

No, but a Doctor may refer you for a treatment.

The appointment will last 30 minutes. A comprehensive medical history will be taken and depending on the problem presenting the Podiatrist will be able to complete a normal treatment of Nails cutting, callus, corns and verruca, however if the treatment needs more time ie Laser, Biomechanical Assessment, Microwave, Diabetic/vascular assessment, the podiatrist will rebook a more time appropriate appointment.

Please bring an up to date prescription list if the medical history form (Link) has not been completed online prior to the appointment, as medical practitioners it is very important that we know this information before a treatment plan is made. We will often contact the GP informing them of our treatment plan or for a referral.

Some firms will give the full amount but most pay a half of the treatment cost. Please check with your provider, receipts are provided if requested.

None at all now, Podiatrist is a modern universal global name.

No,

The instruments are manually cleaned, ultrasonically cleaned and then autoclaved. All instruments are identifiable and traceable to each patient. Governed by strict practice guidelines by the Society of Podiatrists and Chiropodists.

DPodM or BSc (Podiatry) Podiatric Medicine- This signifies that the Podiatrist has completed a full three year training course at an approved institution. Originally this was a Diploma in Podiatric medicine –DpodM but was later changed to a degree course- BSc. Please note Dip Pod Med is not the same as DPodM.

SRCh- State Registered Chiropodist. Since July 2003 this title has been disbanded although it is still likely to be used by many Podiatrists for a while as it may still be expected by the general public that a Podiatrist is Fully Qualified. The current form of Registration with the state is given by the HCPC. (For more information go to the link)

MChs, SoCaP or FChs – this means the podiatrist is a member or a fellow of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. A practicing member of this society will have professional indemnity insurance cover. F.C.Pod(S)- is a Podiatrist that has then gone on to train as Podiatric Surgeon

The Podiatry/ Chiropody profession has, over many years tried to “Close the Profession”, which basically means by being called a Podiatrist/Chiropodist you are getting treated by a fully qualified, State Registered Professional with the appropriate training and insurance.

Podiatry as with all professions allied to the HCPC have to complete a comprehensive profile of continued learning post initial qualifications otherwise being struck off the register is a reality. This continued learning enables all professions including Podiatry to be up to date with all recent medical advancements and developments.

For information please visit:

• feetforlife.org
• hcpc-uk.org
• nhs.uk

If you have any further questions regarding treatment please don't hesitate to contact us on the details below.