Diabetes Ireland is currently funding the Galway Diabetic Foot Study, under the leadership of Dr Sean Dinneen (Consultant Diabetes Specialist), aimed at developing a model of care to prevent diabetic foot problems, foot ulcer and lower limb amputations from occurring.
This model of care sees a podiatrist linked to each diabetes clinic who would train their local GP practice nurses to undertake routine foot screening and quickly refer patients at risk thus ensuring early and timely intervention and recovery.
This study is delivering a service which was not previously available thereby having immediate benefits to people with diabetes. The study will confirm the number of people having diabetes related foot problems and will provide information on the cost of these foot problems to the health service. Initial results are extremely positive and it is hoped that on completion of the study, this model of care will be developed throughout the country by the HSE.
For more information on funded research projects log on to www.diabetesresearch.ie
