The RCPod calls for universal access to handheld Doppler and manual sphygmomanometers
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Position statement
The RCPod’s latest position statement gives NHS Managers the information they need to make the case
The Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod) has called for podiatrists in all clinical settings to have access to handheld Doppler devices and manual sphygmomanometers.
Dopplers provide key diagnostic information allowing podiatrists to hear and quantify the quality of the blood flow through the arteries. When teamed with a sphygmomanometer, typically associated with monitoring blood pressure, key readings can be taken at the point of presentation; this increases the chances of early intervention for patients.
The call is set out in the RCPod’s new policy position statement. The statement provides podiatry managers in the NHS with the evidence and the authority they need to try to get vital funding for these devices, helping to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes.
The statement responds to widespread concerns from podiatrists who report limited or delayed access to these essential diagnostic tools.
Given the high prevalence of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia (CLTI) among podiatrists' patients, the lack of timely vascular assessment poses serious risks to patient health, increasing the burden on NHS services.
Key highlights from the position statement:
Dopplers provide key diagnostic information allowing podiatrists to hear and quantify the quality of the blood flow through the arteries. When teamed with a sphygmomanometer, typically associated with monitoring blood pressure, key readings can be taken at the point of presentation; this increases the chances of early intervention for patients.
The call is set out in the RCPod’s new policy position statement. The statement provides podiatry managers in the NHS with the evidence and the authority they need to try to get vital funding for these devices, helping to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes.
The statement responds to widespread concerns from podiatrists who report limited or delayed access to these essential diagnostic tools.
Given the high prevalence of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia (CLTI) among podiatrists' patients, the lack of timely vascular assessment poses serious risks to patient health, increasing the burden on NHS services.
Key highlights from the position statement:
- Clinical necessity: Handheld Doppler and manual sphygnomenometer assessments are critical for detecting PAD and CLTI, guiding urgent referrals and preventing complications such as amputations and strokes
- Cost effectiveness: A basic Doppler and sphygnomenometer kit costs under £500, while a single amputation can cost the NHS upwards of £65,000; early detection saves lives and reduces long-term healthcare costs
- Litigation risk: A national review of NHS litigation revealed that only 19% of audited cases had documented Doppler use, highlighting systemic gaps in vascular assessment
- Professional integrity: Ensuring podiatrists have access to these tools aligns with NICE guidelines and supports high-quality, evidence-based care.
Lawrence Ambrose, the RCPod’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs and the statement’s lead author, said:
"This document is a strategic tool for NHS managers. It provides the rationale and evidence to support requests for this crucial funding and ensure podiatrists are equipped to deliver safe and effective care.”
The RCPod urges NHS leaders, commissioners, and service managers to act on this guidance and prioritise investment in handheld Doppler and manual sphygmomanometers. Doing so will empower clinicians, protect patients and uphold the standards of modern podiatric care.
You can read the full position statement here.