Podiatrist in Sittingbourne, Podiatry Foot, Ankle & Leg Clinic

First Contact Podiatry

First Contact Podiatrists (FCPs) are HCPC-registered autonomous clinicians working within general practice to assess, diagnose, and manage lower limb and foot-related conditions—without the need for prior GP referral.

They operate as part of the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) and are embedded within Primary Care Networks (PCNs) to provide early intervention, reduce onward referrals, and support people living with long-term or progressive foot conditions.

FCP Podiatrists see patients with foot, ankle, and lower limb concerns that would otherwise take up GP time.

What Does a First Contact Podiatrist Do?

Diagnose and manage conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles’ tendinopathy, forefoot pain, bunions, and flat feet
Identify and escalate red flag symptoms such as diabetic foot complications, vascular disease, or suspected infection
Assess gait and biomechanics, provide orthotic advice or issue temporary devices
Support management of chronic foot conditions like arthritis, or postural complications linked to other MSK or neurological issues
Refer to community podiatry, MSK physiotherapy, orthopaedics, or diabetes care teams where appropriate

They play a crucial role in falls prevention, wound care triage, and diabetic foot health pathways.

Why Is This Role Valuable?

Benefit	Impact
GP Appointment Reduction	Absorbs non-urgent foot and ankle cases—freeing up GP time
Early Intervention	Prevents deterioration, particularly in older adults or diabetic patients
Diabetic Foot Triage	Supports QOF targets and reduces risk of ulceration or amputation
Patient Self-Management	Offers education, prevention, and lifestyle interventions
Lower Limb MSK Expertise	Manages biomechanical and structural foot problems effectively

Training and Governance

All of our First Contact Podiatrists:

Are registered with the HCPC
Operate within the FCP competency framework set by Health Education England
Undergo regular clinical supervision and case review
Are skilled in recognising urgent podiatric red flags (e.g., Charcot foot, sepsis, vascular compromise)
Work closely with Diabetes Leads, GPwERs, and MSK services