Pedicure Conference 2025 | Living life to the full with a (chronic) condition

Presentation 1: The Care Module 2024 – one year in use

Time: 12:40 – 13.25 | Speaker: Sepp Mortelmans

Since 2023, not only diabetes patients but also people with other conditions who are at increased risk of foot ulcers have been entitled to basic medical foot care. In February 2024, the new ‘Foot Ulcer Prevention’ care module was introduced. This presentation explains the key changes and discusses how this module has been applied in practice over the past year. What are the challenges and bottlenecks in its implementation? What successes have been achieved? Drawing on real-life case studies, concrete experiences and insights will be shared, so that you, as a (medical) chiropodist, can apply this knowledge in your own field of work.

Presentation 2: Cancer patients and foot care

Time: 13:30 – 14:15 | Speakers: Birgit van der Heijde and Carla Verspuy

Cancer patients often have specific foot problems as a result of the disease or treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy. This presentation discusses why foot care for this patient group deserves extra attention. What are the most common problems, and how can medical pedicurists and podiatrists respond to them effectively? What does oncological foot treatment involve? How can we support one another, and what are the challenges in practice? Through case studies, practical examples will be shared and guidance offered to optimise care for cancer patients.

Presentation 3: Collaboration between the chiropodist and podiatrist in relation to chronic conditions

Time: 14:45 – 15:30 | Speakers: Maartje Mouchart and Heleen Enklaar

Clients with chronic conditions often visit both a chiropodist and a podiatrist. This presents opportunities for collaboration, but also poses challenges. This session will examine which factors contribute to effective collaboration and how this can improve the quality of care.

The report examines obstacles and areas for potential improvement. Practical examples and best practices demonstrate how effective coordination between professionals leads to better care and satisfied clients. In addition, the report provides space to discuss less successful experiences, so that lessons can be learnt for future collaboration.

Presentation 4: Behavioural change and health literacy: making a difference

15:35 – 16:20 Speaker: Birgit Paling

People with a chronic condition benefit from preventive care, but changing behaviour remains a challenge. It is well known that behavioural change takes an average of 2 to 3 months, provided there is sufficient awareness. How do you motivate clients to play an active role in managing their own health? This presentation explores the psychology behind behavioural change and which methods are effective.