Here’s the good news- this patient had a limb threatening diabetic foot ulcer that might be the deepest and biggest lesion I have ever treated with a total contact cast, and it healed. However, I had to keep her in the TCC while we waited for the paperwork from the orthotist to be processed through her primary care physician so that it could be approved. This process can take weeks, not to mention the time it takes for the shoes to be made.
In the meantime, during Hurricane Harvey flooding her cast caused her to slip on a wet surface. She ended up with a severe shoulder sprain and a very bruised face. It’s a miracle she was not severely injured. All because we were waiting for her shoe paperwork to be signed.

I think we should develop a coordination of care quality measure to target this, but that would require funding and the engagement of entities committed to reducing amputation rate in diabetics. Silly me.

The opinions, comments, and content expressed or implied in my statements are solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the position or views of Intellicure or any of the boards on which I serve.