Reducing GP workload and improving access through First Contact Podiatry
The Challenge
Like many PCNs, Eston was experiencing increasing demand on GP appointments, particularly for foot and lower limb conditions that could be more appropriately managed by a specialist. This was impacting access, increasing waiting times, and placing additional pressure on already stretched clinical teams.
The Solution
Promni Health introduced a First Contact Podiatry service within the PCN, providing patients with direct access to expert assessment, diagnosis, and treatment at the front door of primary care.
The service was designed to:
- Reduce unnecessary GP appointments
- Provide faster access to specialist care
- Identify and manage high-risk patients earlier
- Streamline onward referral pathways where needed
The Impact (0.5 FTE)
Annually:
- 1,800 fewer GP appointments for foot-related conditions
- 85% of patients managed at first appointment
- 300+ GP hours saved over 12 months
- Only 4% required referral to community podiatry
- 51 Vascular specialist referrals
- Improved patient satisfaction
What this means
The introduction of First Contact Podiatry has enabled Eston PCN to manage demand more effectively, freeing up GP capacity while ensuring patients receive timely, specialist care. We were also able to identify high-risk patients early, preventing avoidable foot complications; often linked to long term conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular.
By resolving the majority of cases at first contact and reducing the need for onward referrals, the service has improved both efficiency and patient experience across the PCN and integrated healthcare system.
PSQ
PSQ 83% Response Rate
