Call For More Funding For Critical Shortage Of Podiatry Places At University

The Australian Podiatry Association (NSW) is calling for greater funding for university places to meet the increasing demand for careers in medicine and health care and, in particular, to address a critical shortfall in university places for training podiatrists. Supporting similar calls from the AMA, the Association believes that there will be increasing pressure on our health system in the next few decades.

The Australian Podiatry Association (NSW) is calling for greater funding for university places to meet the increasing demand for careers in medicine and health care and, in particular, to address a critical shortfall in university places for training podiatrists. Supporting similar calls from the AMA, the Association believes that there will be increasing pressure on our health system in the next few decades.

“There is little doubt that an increasingly aging population will over-burden the health system if action is not taken now”, said Laurance Sidari, President of the Australian Podiatry Association (NSW).

“An increase in frail and elderly people will see a whole range of medical problems that need to be addressed. Podiatry services are already over-taxed due to shortfalls in student places”, he said.

“Podiatry services are also increasingly being used by the ‘baby boomer’ generation, who value the benefits of good health and exercise. There has been a massive increase in the use of podiatrists to deal with sports injuries and to undertake preventative foot health assessments.”

In an election year, the parties’ commitment to health funding will be a vital issue at state and federal levels. Aged care, in particular, should be a vital component of any health policy that aims to provide a dignified and comfortable life for our older citizens. Adequate planning for this will be the measure of a caring and forward-thinking government.

“There are not enough podiatrists to adequately service community needs now. Already, we have seen the closure of the podiatry course at the University of Western Sydney, with the loss of 30 places per year. This is exactly the time that we need more podiatrists. None of this makes sense”, he said.

“Podiatry services to the community, particularly with an increase in diabetes, will be more important than ever. Podiatric Surgeons are also important in treating Foot and Ankle pathology. This is now more evident with changes to State and Federal Legislation to support it. Inadequate funding for training will only lead to greater suffering and disability in the community.”



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Media Contact: Laurance Sidari, President, APodA NSW
Mobile: 0400 653 939