The Gauteng Department of Health is strengthening specialized foot care services to prevent diabetes-related complications, reduce amputations, and improve the quality of life and mobility of patients.
Since April, the Gauteng Department of Health has recorded over 25,000 consultations concerning diabetic feet. This is due to the strengthening of specialized podiatry services to prevent unnecessary amputations and disability caused by chronic diseases.
It is reported that 61 podiatrists are currently providing specialized foot care in 11 hospitals and five health districts in the province. These services are intended for patients suffering from diabetes, circulatory disorders, HIV, tuberculosis, and other chronic conditions that can lead to serious foot problems if untreated.
The Department emphasized that early screening, timely treatment, and improved access to specialized care remain key elements in reducing preventable disability and protecting patients from long-term consequences.
More than 63,000 patients received care in a year
According to departmental data, during the 2025/26 financial year, podiatrists provided care to 63,046 patients, demonstrating a growing demand for specialized foot care services in Gauteng. During the same period, 34,245 people were screened, including 14,572 diabetic patients. Additionally, 9,154 therapeutic devices aimed at maintaining independence, improving mobility, and preventing disability were issued.
The Department noted that the need for podiatry services continues to grow, especially among patients with chronic diseases affecting nerve function, circulation, and mobility. The Department reported that since April of this year, the GDoH has processed over 25,044 consultations, conducted 15,267 wound care interventions, and provided foot health education to thousands of patients across the province.
These interventions aim to detect complications before they turn into serious infections, chronic ulcers, or conditions requiring amputation.
Gauteng expands specialized foot care services
The Department stated that it continues to strengthen podiatric services by expanding coverage programs, improving referral pathways, and ensuring better access to rehabilitation and assistive devices. Specialized services are available through district health facilities, therapeutic service centers, and specialized hospitals throughout the province.
These facilities provide diabetic foot management, advanced wound care, limb salvage services, biomechanical assessments, orthopedic interventions, rehabilitation, as well as outpatient and inpatient podiatric services within multidisciplinary treatment pathways. Patients also have the opportunity to undergo diabetic foot screening, risk assessment, wound treatment, foot ulcer prevention, nail surgery, and minimally invasive procedures. Other services include biomechanical assessments, gait analysis, foot care for chronic diseases, and rehabilitation support.
The Department stressed that these services are particularly important for patients at risk of losing mobility or developing permanent disability.
Early screening to prevent amputations
The Department intensified efforts to inform the public about the dangers of untreated foot complications, especially among people with diabetes. 42 awareness campaigns were held since April, focusing on the early detection, prevention, and management of diabetic foot complications and other lower limb diseases. These campaigns are part of the province's broader strategy to improve foot health and prevent complications that can lead to disability.
The Department noted that these activities support Gauteng's overall goal of reducing preventable disability, preventing amputations, and improving the quality of life for all residents. The Department emphasized that podiatry services are not limited to treating existing foot problems but also play a critical role in preventing complications through regular check-ups and patient education.
Residents are advised to seek treatment at an early stage
The latest data was published on World Podiatry Day, which was observed on Thursday under the slogan 'Feet carry every culture'. The Department used this occasion to highlight the importance of foot and ankle health, as well as the need to raise public awareness about specialized foot care services. It urged residents, especially those with diabetes and circulatory disorders, to undergo regular foot screenings and seek medical attention when complications arise.
The Gauteng Department of Health calls on all individuals with diabetes, circulatory disorders, and chronic diseases to attend regular foot examinations and seek prompt medical attention if they experience pain, sores, numbness, or changes in their foot condition. The Department warned that ignoring early signs can lead to complications affecting mobility, independence, and overall well-being. It confirmed that strengthening preventive foot care and improving access to specialized treatment remain essential conditions for reducing preventable amputations and long-term disability across Gauteng.