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"Podiatry Appointment"

About: Podiatry / Diabetes Footcare Pathway Waterside Hospital / Podiatry

(as the patient),

I recently had a Podiatry appointment at Waterside Hospital because I had a very sore toe and couldn't get my shoe on! 

On the morning of my appointment the podiatrist rang in sick so my appointment was cancelled!  A member of admin staff, rang me to tell me this, I was very disappointed and asked them if there was any other appointments available because of my diabetes and the fact that I couldn't get my shoe on! They laughed at me and said no!

I tried every podiatrist in  Derry and Donegal but no joy!  I was in terrible pain and couldn't put my foot on the ground.  I just kept taking foot soaks to try and get some ease!  

Rachael rang a while later to say I could have an appointment the next Tuesday, but I said no,  as I'm in terrible pain and couldn't wait that long!

I was hoping to get a private app before the weekend. I had no joy, so I rang Rachael on the Tuesday morning and she gave me an appointment for the afternoon at 3.30pm with Ryan in Gt James Health Centre.

I attended my appointment at 3.30pm and Ryan told me I had a corn on the top of my toe which I was hitting on the ground with every step and, in turn, was pushing the nail upwards!  He explained to me the logic of what was happening and I totally understood.  He told me he would do everything he can to help me - and that's exactly what he did.  He carried out my treatment in a professional manner and treated me with the utmost respect.  I felt I was walking on air when leaving.  

We need more people like Ryan, and more Podiatry appointments available!

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Responses

Response from Katherine Buchanan, Principal Podiatrist, Quality and Clinical Practice for High Risk Patients, Podiatry -Allied Health Professional, Western Health and Social Care Trust last month
Katherine Buchanan
Principal Podiatrist, Quality and Clinical Practice for High Risk Patients, Podiatry -Allied Health Professional,
Western Health and Social Care Trust
Submitted on 30/05/2025 at 16:46
Published on Care Opinion at 16:46


picture of Katherine Buchanan

Dear snowes98,

I am Katherine Buchanan, Principal Podiatrist in the Western Trust.

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about our service.

Firstly, I would like to apologise for the cancellation of your appointment. Unfortunately, staff sickness is unavoidable, and our clinics are currently operating at full capacity.

In addition, we recently transitioned to a new digital record system. To ensure staff are proficient in using the system, we temporarily reduced the number of appointments, which may have contributed to the limited availability of appointments. Please be assured that this was only a short term adjustment.

I’m pleased to hear that our podiatrist, Ryan, was able to explain everything clearly and professionally. Your kind feedback has been shared with Ryan and the wider team.

Once again, thank you for taking the time to provide your comments - it’s greatly appreciated.

Kind Regards,

Katherine Buchanan

  • {{helpful}} {{helpful == 1 ? "person thinks" : "people think"}} this response is helpful

Update posted by snowes98 (the patient)

You're very welcome Katherine

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