What happens when older people are discharged from NHS podiatry services?

This study examines the prevalences of a range of foot-related pathologies of a large random sample of older patients (>65 years) who were discharged from NHS care as part of a disinvestment programme. The prevalences are examined with respect to the time since discharge, the age of the patients and their reported ability to care for their own feet. The pattern of alternative care taken up by these patients is reported, which shows that a sizeable proportion of patients with poor foot health are not receiving professional care. The prevalences of insensitivity to touch and vibration are reported both for diabetics and non-diabetics and the increasing prevalence of these problems with increasing age is commented upon. These results have important implications for planning for service provision for older people in the future.