The Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Kailesh Kumar Singh Jagutpal, met, yesterday in his office in Port Louis, two experts from the Podiatry Association of Canada, Dr Mark Bradley and Dr Marylin Bradley, who are currently in Mauritius to provide specialised treatment for diabetic patients.
In a statement following the meeting, Minister Jagutpal highlighted that the purpose of bringing these experts to Mauritius is to integrate specialised treatment into the local healthcare system to combat diabetes and improve footcare services. He emphasised that diabetes is a leading cause of death in Mauritius and that the increasing number of foot amputations is a critical issue that needs to be addressed.
Dr Jagutpal remarked that his Ministry currently lacks podiatrists, with only specialised diabetic foot care nurses available. He stressed the importance of addressing this issue, especially with Mauritius having approximately 19% of its population as being elderly. This, according to him, results in a high prevalence of diabetes.
The Health Minister mentioned that these experts will provide comprehensive training for specialised diabetic foot care nurses. He expressed satisfaction as nurses are keen to acquire additional training and upgrade their skills. Minister Jagutpal further emphasised that a collaborative workplan will be developed with the Mauritius Institute of Health to provide training to nurses and equip them with knowledge in podiatry.
As for Dr Marylin Bradley, she dwelt on the global significance of diabetic foot problems and the alarming increase in amputations. She stated that their primary objective is to elevate the quality of footcare services in Mauritius, while also aiming to build upon and enhance the existing healthcare system so as to ensure a brighter future for healthcare in Mauritius.
She, moreover, underlined their efforts to assist Mauritius through online educational courses, which demonstrate their commitment to improve healthcare in the region.
For his part, Dr Mark Bradley emphasised that the next course of action involves standardising the current level of care offered by specialist nurses. He expressed optimism that this intervention will broaden the nurses’ skills and capabilities for the future.
Additionally, he informed on the need to hire a fully qualified podiatrist to enhance services and reduce the burden on the existing orthopaedic practitioners.
The two experts are expected to return to Mauritius in September next year for a period of three weeks to provide practical training and support.
