Podiatrists / Chiropodists are healthcare professionals who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the lower limb and specifically the foot and ankle. They can be consulted without prior referral from a Medical Practitioner.
Until the early 1990’s, the UK trained Chiropodists and practitioners qualified with a Diploma in Podiatric Medicine. Since circa 1992, undergraduates studied and qualified with Bachelor of Science Degrees (BSc) in Podiatry. The Podiatry title was introduced as it was more widely accepted in other parts of Europe and reflected the comprehensive scope of practice of practitioners.
Here in the UK, the titles “Podiatrist”, ” Chiropodist” and “Podiatry”, “Chiropody” are protected by law. Only those registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) can legally use these titles.
HCPC registration is mandatory for employment as a Podiatrist / Chiropodist within the NHS.
BE AWARE…
FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONERS, FOOT HEALTH SPECIALISTS ARE NOT PODIATRISTS OR CHIROPODISTS AND CANNOT LEGALLY USE THE PROTECTED TITLES.
These individuals can practice and provide treatment having undergone anything from no formal training to a correspondence /distance learning course!
To qualify as and practice as a Podiatrist / Chiropodist, practitioners must have undertaken a 3 year full-time or 4 year part-time undergraduate Diploma or BSc course at one of nine Universities in the UK.
ALWAYS ENSURE YOU VISIT OR CONSULT A HCPC REGISTERED PODIATRIST / CHIROPODIST.
CLICK ON THE HCPC LOGO BELOW TO CHECK THE REGISTER!
