Revolutionising Diabetic Foot Care: A System in Urgent Need of Reform
Summary: This editorial critiques the UK’s diabetic foot services, where only 30% of DFUs heal in 6 weeks vs 80% target, due to fragmented care and underfunding. Proposes national MDT hubs, mandatory education, and £100M investment for screening/offloading to cut 5,000 annual amputations.
Key Highlights:
- Crisis: 7,000 amputations/year; £1B cost; 30% 6-week healing.
- Gaps: No MDT in 40% services; poor education; delayed referrals.
- Reform: National hubs, £100M funding, mandatory training.
- Outcomes: Potential 50% amputation reduction with overhaul.
- Authors: Carré A, Macfarlane R, Game F et al.
Keywords: diabetic foot reform, UK, MDT hubs, amputation reduction, funding, A Carré, R Macfarlane, F Game