March 2009 NUI Galway to Host Ireland's Largest Ever Podiatry Event

NUI Galway's School of Health Sciences is to host Ireland's largest ever conference focussed on Podiatry, the healthcare profession specialising in diseases and disorders of the lower limb and foot. From 7-8 March the University will host a Podiatry Symposium in association with the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists of Ireland. Podiatry is a popular new degree at NUI Galway, where the country's first cohort of undergraduate podiatry students is currently being trained. The four-year Bachelor of Science honours degree fills a gap where previously those wishing to become a podiatrist had to enrol in a UK-based course. The conference will highlight the skills and scope of practice for podiatrists, and discuss the latest developments in areas including diabetes, wound management, surgery and arthritis. The two-day podiatry conference reflects the profession's commitment to providing a high standard of continual professional development. Renowned national and international speakers will deliver up to date information on a wide range of core subjects. The event will also feature an extensive trade exhibition, poster presentations, workshops and awards ceremony. According to Dr Caroline McIntosh, Head of Podiatry, NUI Galway: "The escalating prevalence of diabetes and obesity, in conjunction with an ageing population, means Ireland needs more podiatrists. Podiatry is currently a very small profession within Ireland which is highlighted by the fact that there is currently only the equivalent for one full-time professional for every 35,000 people. The recommended ratio, for the over 65 population for example, is one podiatrist for every 2,000 people. This imbalance is set to change with the establishment of the Podiatry Course at NUI Galway and with more practitioners graduating within Ireland in the future". Dr McIntosh added: "The conference will provide an excellent forum to network with national and international colleagues and celebrate the coming on-stream of the first degree in Podiatry here at NUI Galway, which is an exciting development for the profession". Up to 150 healthcare professionals are expected to attend the event. For further information and a full programme visit www.nuigalway.ie/podiatry/ -ends-