Diabetic foot problems are becoming more common. More people are living with diabetes, and this means more people are at risk of developing foot ulcers and, in severe cases, needing amputations.

To help prevent this, a regional diabetic foot care pathway was introduced in 2018. This pathway provides joined‑up care for people with diabetes, from early screening through to specialist hospital treatment. It focuses on early detection, education, and fast access to the right level of care.

Foot screening

Foot screening is available in the community for anyone with diabetes, including those recently diagnosed.

• A podiatrist or podiatry assistant will:
• Check your feet for any problems
• Assess your level of risk
• Agree a personalised care plan with you

If you are classed as low risk, you will usually be screened every two years. A routine nail service is no longer provided for people in this low‑risk group.

Foot Protection Team

The Foot Protection Team is a community-based service.

They provide:

• Assessment and treatment based on your level of risk
• Advice and education on how to care for your feet
• Prevention and management of foot ulcers

If needed, they can quickly refer you to hospital-based services for more specialist care.

Enhanced Foot Protection Team 

The Enhanced Foot Protection Team is based in hospitals in Antrim and Causeway.

You can be referred by a healthcare professional, or you can refer yourself if you have:

• A worsening foot wound
• A red, hot, or swollen foot

This team includes specialists who can:

• Assess and diagnose problems quickly
• Start treatment straight away

They also have direct access to regional specialist services (vascular and orthopaedic foot services) in Belfast, if more advanced care is needed.

Multidisciplinary Foot Team

The Multidisciplinary Foot Team is based at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.

This specialist team includes:

• Vascular orthopaedic consultants
• Interventional radiologists
• Podiatrists
• Orthotists (specialists in supportive devices such as insoles or footwear)

They provide expert care for complex or severe foot problems.

This care pathway is designed to make sure all patients with diabetes can get the right help at the right time, by:

• Identifying problems early
• Providing education and support
• Offering fast access to specialist care

We aim to reduce the risk of serious complications such as ulcers and amputations.

Patients are supported and encouraged to take an active role in looking after their feet and managing their diabetes.