The Staffordshire and Stoke-on Trent Partnership (SSoTP), which is in charge of referring National Health Service patients with foot problems to podiatrists and chiropodists, was supposed to make appointments for 95% of newly referred patients within 3 weeks. However, they failed to meet their quota last month due to a large influx of people with foot conditions, so now their contract with the NHS has been redone with new stipulations.

Under the new contract the SSoTP is responsible for guaranteeing doctor visits within two days to 90% of people with pressing foot issues. Unfortunately, patients who have problems that need regular care but aren’t as severe may experience delays of up to six weeks before getting appointments.

Since the United States doesn’t have a National Health Service, people with foot problems are expected to choose a podiatrist on their own. For professional care for any kind of foot or ankle problem, consider seeing podiatrist Sharon L. Pletcher, DPM of Family Foot Center. Dr. Pletcher will provide you with comprehensive and effective care for your foot condition.

Choosing a Podiatrist

It is important to find a good podiatrist when it comes to healing your foot concerns and pain. A good podiatrist should know how to identify your condition and should suggest the necessary treatments that can be done so that you can get back to good health.

Choosing a podiatrist is a relatively easy task that can be done through an online search engine, word of mouth via a friend, directory listings, yellow book, advertisements, newspaper ads, etc. It is up to you to choose the one that you feel is the closest to your location, is experienced and  has a good reputation in the field.

It is best to find one that cares about your health overall and is open and happy to help you alleviate any pain you might be experiencing. Another thing to consider may be the costs of a podiatrist, what insurance carrier you have and also if they specialize in anything specific.

Visit your podiatrist at the first signs of pain, discomfort, or injuries and if you notice any unexplainable pain in the feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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