Specialist Podiatrist Band 6 (Band 5 career progression considered) in Harlow

To autonomously assess and diagnose patients with a diverse range of medical and podiatric conditions, using appropriate diagnostic techniques, skills and tools to provide a high quality service. To develop and provide treatment plans in clinical and domiciliary settings. To be able to work on own initiative.

To participate in new patient assessment clinics, routine clinics, ulcer clinics and nail surgery with opportunities to shadow specialist musculoskeletal podiatrists and specialist diabetes podiatrists in the multidisciplinary diabetic foot service. To communicate complex information with patients, colleagues, administrative staff and other health care professionals. This may involve a range of verbal and non-verbal communication tools. Communicate highly sensitive condition related information to patients and carers where considerable negotiation, persuasive skills, empathy and sensitivity are required.

To demonstrate highly developed skills of reasoning and persuasion when communicating with patients, relatives and carers where there are barriers to understanding, effectively adapting communication techniques according to the needs of the individual. To work in close collaboration with the specialist multidisciplinary diabetic foot team, Vascular team and secondary care consultants and professionals. To provide specialised advice to community based colleagues working within other clinical areas and primary care.

To work in collaboration with specialist teams, GPs, and other health care professionals. To work in accordance with the departments standards and professional codes of conduct. To be responsible for maintaining accurate and appropriate standards of documentation. To act professionally in relation to customer care and contribute to investigations/responses to any complaints in line with Trust policy.

To demonstrate and apply a sound understanding of clinical governance and risk management. To participate and comment on proposed service improvements and transformation within the department. To participate in surveys, undertake audits, and research around podiatry care. Participate in and encourage sharing of best practice and knowledge. Actively seeking new knowledge, innovations and creating appropriate change. Promote, facilitate and participate in the provision of skill development.

To participate in delivering training and education to both patients, students and other health professionals. To provide peer support to all health care professionals Trust-wide with regard to all aspects of podiatry care and management. Act as an effective role model to all healthcare professionals and as an expert resource on the management of foot health. Ensure safeguarding and mental capacity issues are recognised and dealt with appropriately.

To have knowledge and comply with Trust Policies and Procedures. To manage own workload and support more junior team members to prioritise workload safely and effectively. Respond to telephone calls to the service, providing information, advice, reassurance and support to callers. To have an excellent working knowledge of IT skills. To input data and information accurately and completely using the latest versions of policies and procedures in manual and electronic systems.

To ensure the necessary precautions are adhered to when transferring information, only disclosing patient identifiable information in line with Caldicott and the Data Protection. Through networking and communication with individuals both professional and non-professional ensure the profile of the podiatry service is raised. To work within health and safety requirements and local guidelines.

Undertake physical assessment of patients in clinic or the home setting, involving specific patient movement and handling, in order to accurately undertake assessment. Maintain competency and knowledge and utilise risk management to maintain safe practice. To report adverse incidents in line with Trust policy. The post holder will be required to travel across all areas of the Trust and will at all times work alone, independently and as part of a team.