How cost effective is the concept of first contact podiatrists?
Cost of a first contact podiatrist
The cost of an FCP is considerably less than an employed GP or temporary locum. Multiple pilot studies have been carried out by existing FCP service provision demonstrating cost-effectiveness and in some areas hundreds of thousands of pounds have been saved in the NHS.
With an increasingly ageing population, increasing levels of diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, podiatry provision of FCP services with a focus on all lower limb presentations should equate to equal if not more cost savings within the NHS.
Exiting FCP data; savings were demonstrated in these areas.
- Less secondary care intervention
- Less imaging referral
- Less repeat GP appts
- Less medication prescribing.
All these services and more are within the capabilities of the FCP pathway.
Find out more about the cost effectiveness of an FCP in our video below:
How can first contact podiatrists help you meet the targets within your PCN?