A NEW locally-delivered orthotics service has been established across Argyll and Bute following the appointment of two specialist clinicians.
Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) has welcomed Advanced Practice Orthotist Clare Carson and Senior Orthotist Rachel McBride to the new team, following the end of the area’s previous outsourced service.
The HSCP says bringing the service into local delivery should make it easier for patients across Argyll and Bute to access specialist assessments and treatment, while also creating a more sustainable service and reducing costs.
Orthotists work with people experiencing conditions affecting mobility, posture and musculoskeletal health.
Following an assessment, they can provide specialist equipment including braces and insoles, with treatment intended to improve patients’ comfort, mobility and independence.
Rachel McBride said she was looking forward to helping establish the new service.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to improve access to orthotic care across the region, making a positive difference for patients and working closely with them and healthcare colleagues to help achieve their individual goals,” she said.
The arrival of the new team has also coincided with national recognition for Clare Carson.
After being shortlisted for Practice Educator of the Year, Clare was named the winner of the award on September 4 in recognition of her work educating, supporting and developing future healthcare professionals.
She described receiving the award as a real honour and said she was looking forward to developing relationships with patients and colleagues across Argyll and Bute.
Linda Currie, Associate Allied Health Professions Director, said the appointments represented an important step in developing the service.
“We are delighted to welcome our new Orthotists to Argyll and Bute,” she said.
“These appointments represent a significant step forward in the development of our Orthotics service and demonstrate our commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care for local communities.
“By developing a service tailored to the needs of people across Argyll and Bute, we can improve access to specialist support closer to home, enhance the patient experience and ensure we are making the best use of public resources.”
The new team will now work with patients, healthcare staff and partner organisations as the service continues to develop across the area.
