When healthcare systems incorporate podiatric services, it can decrease healthcare costs, hospitalizations and patient falls, according to a new study by the New York State Podiatric Medical Association (NYSPMA).
The study notes that adding podiatry services and treatment may decrease falls by 36 percent in the elderly and at-risk patients, decrease opioid dispensing by 28 percent among those with podiatric-related pain, and also reduce hospitalizations for obese patients and those with diabetes. For patients with diabetes, the best strategy to prevent amputations and foot wounds is to see a podiatrist for a foot risk assessment so the DPM can evaluate risk factors and develop a proper prevention plan.
The study notes that adding podiatry services and treatment may decrease falls by 36 percent in the elderly and at-risk patients, decrease opioid dispensing by 28 percent among those with podiatric-related pain, and also reduce hospitalizations for obese patients and those with diabetes. For patients with diabetes, the best strategy to prevent amputations and foot wounds is to see a podiatrist for a foot risk assessment so the DPM can evaluate risk factors and develop a proper prevention plan.
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