845 Diabetic Foot Care Services in COVID-19 Era – A University Hospital Multi specialty Team Experience

Abstract

IntroductionMultidisciplinary foot care services contribute to the reduction in amputations from foot ulceration secondary to diabetes. The COVID-19 pandemic pressurised services and required a pause of elective care. This study reports the patient’s experience of foot care provision during the first wave where self-care, virtual appointments and patient directed appointments were utilised.MethodDiabetic foot patients were retrospectively identified over a one-month period booked for MDT care (in hospital, OPD, diabetic foot clinic, community podiatry clinic or at home). All patients>16 years of age diagnosed with a new or previous diabetic foot ulcer or post-operative foot wound were included. Data was collated via a patient survey form and descriptive statistics were used to characterize the study population and responses.Results63 patients were identified (1/10 – 30/10) with data collated from 51 respondents (81%). 78% (40/51) were male. Median age was 69 years (IQR 59–76). 86% were comfortable attending a hospital appointment. 92% reported continuing to receive an appropriate level of care. All of the patients felt well supported and knew how to access the foot care service. 29% utilised virtual care. 82% (42/51) considered face to face appointments were more suitable for follow up rather than virtual/phone appointments.ConclusionsIt was possible to continue to provide safe diabetic foot care despite the COVID-19 pandemic but careful patient selection and communication is the key.