Independent podiatrist prescribing "better for patients"

Media Release, Thursday 21 July 2011

Independent podiatrist prescribing "better for patients"

Podiatrists should be able to prescribe independently, and not have to rely
on general practitioners, according to Podiatry NZ.

Health Minister Tony Ryall has announced a proposal to create a new category
of delegated prescribers, who would prescribe medications under the
supervision of an independent prescriber (a GP).

"These proposals unnecessarily leave GPs in the driving seat as far as
healthcare is concerned," said Podiatry New Zealand Executive Officer Wayne
Tucker.

Under the proposal, delegated prescribers (highly trained health
professionals working in a collaborative team environment and under
supervision) may prescribe within their scope of practice for a specific
group of patients. This means podiatrists working at medical centres may be
delegated prescribing rights.

"However, the majority of podiatrists work in their own clinics, so would
not be covered by these changes," Mr Tucker said.

"It's a good start but does not allow for practitioners, such as
podiatrists, who work in their own practice to give patients the full care
needed at times. If a person has already chosen to see a podiatrist, they
should be able to receive full care from that practitioner."

Podiatry NZ would instead like the Minister of Health to make podiatrists
independent prescribers, not reliant on GPs' supervision.

"This would mean patients requiring medication for various foot conditions
would be able to receive treatment earlier", Mr Tucker said. "The benefits
of our proposal include quicker, effective treatment being delivered at a
lower cost to the patient. Currently, a person must see their GP if their
podiatrist recommends a course of treatment."

"Systems are already in place to keep the public safe," Mr Tucker said. "We
believe our vision of how prescribing can work would benefit all involved in
foot care, especially the patient," Mr Tucker said.

Podiatry New Zealand represents podiatrists, highly trained health
professionals who specialise in foot care and lower limb conditions.
Podiatry New Zealand is the peak body representing podiatrists in New
Zealand.

ENDS

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