Diabetics don't see podiatrists as much as you think?

[umass319]

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Check this out. I was pretty disappointed. Tell me it has something to do with their type of diabetes... Also, I notice a few australians.

http://www.diabetesforums.com/forum/type-1-diabetes/37247-do-you-see-podiatrist.html

 

[Feli]

I wouldn't lose too much sleep over that....
Sample size in that poll = 42 random online ppl (who may or may not be answering honestly, voting multiple times, etc)
Diabetics in America = roughly 25 million (however, a decent % don't even know they are diabetic)

Most primary care providing docs will gladly refer diabetics to a foot specialist, endocrinologist, nutritionist, nephrologist, etc before they have a problem. Even if they don't do the proactive approach, basically all PCPs or ER docs would definitely have to refer those diabetics after problems begin and it's clear that the patient needs specialist treatment/consult.

In the end, though, it's your body, your responsibility. Some patients do those recommended follow-ups and check ups, some don't. You can lead a horse to water but can't make it drink.

 

[lyhrrus]

In the end, though, it's your body, your responsibility. Some patients do those recommended follow-ups and check ups, some don't. You can lead a horse to water but can't make it drink.

Especially true since non-compliant patients are any doctor's bane. If you have a method of increasing screenings/visits/compliance, all the more power to you.

 

[whiskers]

I could care less about the poll. and some sound as if they are too tough to come see a foot Dr to have their nails cut, LMAO.... BUUUUT ....

They will know where to come when the SHTF with their feet and they're scared out of their minds about the potential for amputation and/or loss of life. Seems like it's a great motivator to come see the foot Dr.

But but but.... everyone else is taking care of them.... LMAO uh huh....
and most likely they will develop an ulcer or charcot or other diabetic problem and guess what.... those same docs will punt them out to a podiatrist quick like..

At which time the patient will wonder why no one else informed them and how it happened since someone else was taking care of them all those years.

At that time there will be plenty of work to be done to do to catch up for 10 years of virtual neglect.

I seriously wish them all good luck and great health though and if they save a few bucks on an office visit in the mean time, it's kind of like money in the bank IMO.... Because office visits aren't getting any cheaper in the near future.

 

[dropfoot]

Is it also possible that the type of person whom lurks on forums looking for answers is the type of person that would not seek out the help of a professional??? Perhaps they are do it yourself types of people.

The reason I pose this question is because I am a forum lurker, and yes indeed, i am the type of person that i am referring to.

 

[Podmeister]

Not all diabetics will require podiatric care but they should be screened annually. Only the ones with complications such as nerve damage or poor circulation will require closer monitoring and frequent office visits.

Currently in America, there are 17 million diabetics and another 76 million at risk or pre-diabetics. The diabetic population is increasing 10% per year and expected to double within the next 10 yrs. The recent report on increase in childhood obesity is not encouraging either and diabetes remain the 7th leading cause of death.

There are wayyyy too many McDonalds and wayyyy too many fat people.

 

[Shireiqiang]

Interesing information. I thought the comments from the diabetics themselves was the best part. Some diabetics just lack the knowledge of what diabetes can do to their feet. Some may never need to see a podiatrist, those that do need to are so greatful. I saw a nice diabetic lady yesterday just bawling telling the Pod I shadow how greatful she is to him. I was moved. The doc then showed me the before photos of this womans feet. Wow what a transformation.