Chiropodist

**WellFort is seeking Chiropodist to join our team**

**Chiropodist - Multiple roles (contract and permanent)Chiropodist - Multiple roles (contract and permanent)**

The Chiropodist is registered under the Provisions of the Chiropody Act in the Province of Ontario (Bill 43).  Further, the Chiropodist will have post-graduate training and will be authorized by RHPS and Bill 45 to perform the following controlled acts:

- The cutting of subcutaneous tissues of the foot
- Administration by injection of a designated substance
- Prescribing topical and oral medications as designated (Jan 1999)

The Chiropodist is an independent practitioner working within a multi-disciplinary team. The main functions of the chiropodist are to provide direct care to clients to recognize and treat pathologies in the foot area which diminish the health, mobility, comfort and independence of clients.  In addition, the chiropodist will provide health teaching, advocacy and health promotion services for clients, as well as consultation to nurses providing foot care services. S/he works in the centre and in outreach locations as required.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**

Direct Care: The Chiropodist treats and manages the care of patients with foot disorders by:

- Taking, recording and utilizing a complete chiropody and relevant medical history, in an accurate manner
- Performing a physical examination of the lower extremities for diagnostic purposes
- Administering diagnostic aids and ordering laboratory tests to determine the existence or extent of an abnormality or pathology
- Recognizing and referring to appropriate staff those clients with conditions or needs that are beyond the scope of the chiropodist
- Designing and implementing a comprehensive and individualized management plan for all patients
- Prescribing, designing and making foot orthotics where indicated
- Ensures and maintains personal and environmental hygiene, performs instrument sterilization and the packaging of instrument kits
- Maintains clear, accurate and timely written documentation including client charts, requisitions, reports, encounters and other information as required by the health centre, the MOH, or other professionals

Health Promotion and Education
- Identifies trends or issues related to the health of client’s feet and uses this information in planning and advocacy work
- Provides information and counseling to individuals and groups through discussion, workshops, provision of written materials, videos, etc.
- Acts as a resource to staff in the health Centre and in partner/community organizations on issues related to foot care

Advocacy and Outreach
- Advocates for and with clients to reduce barriers to accessing health care or other needed services
- Works with clients, especially marginalized groups, to ensure that they are treated with fairness and dignity
- Provides direct care and health promotion services in outreach locations. Acts as resource to staff in partner agencies
- Participates in the development and support of relevant public policies or programs
- Participates in other community projects or agency activities to provide education, information or to develop collaborative strategies

Administrative and Other
- Maintains clear, accurate and timely written and electronic documentation including EHR, reports, encounters and other information as required by the health centre, MOH, COCOO and other regulatory bodies
- Contributes to policy/protocol development, in relation to health care service delivery and/or professional practice
- Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of government guidelines, acts and legislation affecting client care
- Stays current on evidence-based strategies that improve health
- Shares responsibility for the ordering, maintenance and proper handling of medications, supplies and equipment.  Makes purchases within allocated budget lines and follows protocols for ordering, tracking and paying for supplies
- Supervises, supports or provides education for students from various disciplines with a particular focus on the determinants of health, primary health care and role of chiropodist within the Community Health Centre (CHC)
- Assumes responsibility for the ordering and maintenance of supplies and equipment. Makes purchases within allocated budget lines and follows protocol for ordering, tracking, and paying for supplies
- Participate in chart reviews and case conferences
- Participates in research when opportunities arise
- Other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time

**QUALIFICATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS**
- Bachelor of Science in Chiropody from a recognized university
- Registered and in good standing with the College of Chiropody of Ontario
- Eligible for membership with the Canadian Chiropody Association
- 3 to 5 years’ experience in a health care setting with preferred experience in the community
- Demonstrated commitment to best practices, ongoing learning, and client centered care
- Expe