Difference between the titles ‘podoloog’ and ‘podotherapeut’
Foot care in the Netherlands has developed rapidly over the past few decades. Various professional groups have emerged, or have expanded their scope of practice. Pedicure, podiatry, podopostural therapy, podo-orthesiology, podokinesiology, podotherapy. But who can still explain the difference? And how do you know the difference in the care provided?
The title ‘podiatrist’
The title ‘podotherapeut’ is a professional title protected under the BIG Act (Article 34), which means that a person may only use this title after completing a legally recognised four-year higher professional education (HBO) bachelor’s degree. This programme must be accredited by the NVAO. A podotherapeut (paramedic) falls under the remit of the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.
Podiatrists can become members of the Dutch Association of Podotherapists and can register with the Paramedics Quality Register. This register also includes speech and language therapists, dietitians and other legally recognised professions. This ensures independent quality assurance.
The title ‘podiatrist’
The title ‘podoloog’ is not protected; anyone may use it. For example, someone who works in a shoe shop and also sells insoles may call themselves a podoloog. Or a chiropodist who has completed a course. In Belgium, a podotherapist is also called a podologist. We have noticed that this sometimes leads to confusion, as in the Netherlands a ‘podologist’ is a foot care specialist without a higher professional education (HBO) qualification.
There are also registered podiatrists and podopostural therapists, who have completed private training programmes or courses at higher professional education (HBO) level covering specific aspects of podiatry. This is not the same as an HBO degree programme. For example, there are also language courses and similar programmes at HBO level.
Where can you find podiatrists?
A podiatrist works alongside various paramedical and medical professionals in both primary and secondary care. In primary care, they usually work in health centres. Their paramedical status often makes the distinction within this setting; given their treatment competencies, a podiatrist is often unable to participate in scientifically underpinned care programmes. This trend is evident across the board in secondary care, where there are in fact hardly any podiatrists working.
