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The Gauteng health department is strengthening access to podiatry services in public healthcare facilities as it works to prevent avoidable disability, amputations and complications linked to chronic conditions.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said 61 podiatrists are providing specialised foot and ankle care across 11 hospitals and five health districts.
“The services are aimed at people living with diabetes, circulatory disorders, HIV, TB and other chronic conditions, while also supporting children, older people and patients requiring rehabilitation and assistive devices,” said Mabona.
During the 2025/26 financial year, podiatrists consulted 63,046 patients and screened 34,245 people, including 14,572 people living with diabetes.
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.
Podiatrists work with doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians and other healthcare professionals to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
Patients can also access podopaediatric services, orthotic devices and therapeutic footwear, foot and ankle rehabilitation, as well as education and support to help them manage their foot health.
Mabona said the department was also expanding outreach programmes, improving referral pathways and strengthening diabetic foot care and access to rehabilitation and assistive devices.
The announcement comes as World Podiatry Day is observed on October 8 under the theme “Feet carry every culture”.
Mabona urged people living with diabetes, circulatory disorders and other chronic conditions to attend regular foot screenings. He also encouraged residents to seek medical attention early if they experience foot pain, wounds, numbness, or other changes in their feet.
The department has participated in 42 awareness campaigns focused on the early detection, prevention and management of diabetic foot complications and other lower-limb conditions.
Podiatry services are available through district health facilities, therapeutic service hubs and specialist hospitals across Gauteng.
The department said regular foot care and early intervention are important in maintaining mobility, independence and overall well-being.
TimesLIVE
Ntwanano Mtileni
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