Supported by Scholl
Chair(s)
Dr Jo McCardle FRCPod FFPM RCPS(Glasg)
Introduction:
Every day, patients come to pharmacies with foot problems—whether it’s a skin infection, nail problems or concerns linked to diabetes. Yet, targeted education on lower limb health is still surprisingly rare.
As frontline healthcare providers, pharmacists are uniquely placed to spot the early warning signs, guide effective management, and prevent serious complications.
At this Educational Symposium, our clinical experts will navigate you through a practical, evidence-based session covering:
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"A Pharmacy Roadmap to Skin Infections in the Feet" – from recognising subtle signs to advising on effective treatment and prevention.
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"The Pathway to Diabetes Foot Complications and Steps in Prevention" – understanding risks, prevention strategies, red flags and referral pathways to protect your patients with diabetes.
Programme:
| 08:00 – 08:05 | Introduction by the chair |
| 08:05 – 08:25 | A Pharmacy Roadmap to Skin Infections in the Feet |
| Prof. Ivan Bristow PhD MSc (Oxon) FRCPodM | |
| 08:25 – 08:40 | The Pathway to Diabetes Foot Complications and Steps in Prevention |
| Dr Jo McCardle FRCPod, FFPM RCPS(Glasg) | |
| 08:40 – 08:45 | Q&A session and closing remarks |
Learning objectives:
By the end of this symposium, participants will be able to:
1. Recognise common skin infections and diabetic foot complications seen in pharmacy practice.
2. Differentiate between cases suitable for pharmacy management and those needing referral.
3. Apply evidence-based treatment and prevention strategies for foot health.
4. Advise patients on self-care and risk reduction, especially in diabetes.
5. Implement practical triage and referral pathways to improve patient outcomes.
Take home messages:
1. Saving Feet and Saving Lives – Identifying diabetic foot risks early can increase mortality in patients
2. Pharmacists are First Line – Your role in triage, treatment, and referral makes a measurable difference in patient outcomes
3. Patient Education - Self-care, recognition and risk reduction is as vital as treatment
