Subject Area
Health care policy; Public health
Description
People of color with diabetes in rural low-income communities are more likely to encounter barriers to podiatric care than their white counterparts. Studies show that rural Americans with diabetic foot ulcers have a fifty percent increased risk for foot amputation. Proper foot care is critical to diabetic health by ensuring the maintenance of mobility and quality of life. As the U.S. population ages and diabetes diagnoses increase, individuals across the country develop mobility and foot-related problems. While this is a general issue, nonwhites in low-income rural areas are disproportionately impacted. Podiatrists play a key role in managing a multitude of chronic diseases by providing preventative care that avoids complications in the foot and ankle. Treatment of diabetic foot infections must be thorough and timely to prevent ulcers, gangrene, or amputation This work examines why minorities in rural areas lack access to podiatric care and explores solutions to expand and improve access to podiatric care in these communities. Key questions are addressed including: Why are podiatrists important in managing diabetic patients? How accessible are podiatrists to people of color with diabetes in low-income rural areas? What are the rates of amputation? What is the impact of lack of access to care? What can be done to close gaps in care? Ultimately, improving access to podiatrists in these areas would dramatically improve the overall health of these residents. Having more resources to manage their chronic conditions and regular check-ups would equip this population to better manage their health conditions.
Publisher
Providence College
Date
Spring 4-13-2023
Start Date
3-25-2023 1:30 PM
Type
Article
Format
Text
Language
English
