What are the key indicators for referring a patient with diabetic foot ulcers to a podiatrist?

Refer a patient with diabetic foot ulcers to a podiatrist if there are limb-threatening or life-threatening conditions, such as ulceration with fever, signs of sepsis, limb ischaemia, deep-seated soft tissue or bone infection, or gangrene, and refer immediately to acute services. ¹

For all other active diabetic foot problems, refer within 1 working day to the multidisciplinary foot care service or foot protection service for triage within 1 further working day. ¹

Referral is indicated if the ulcer is large, deep, or involves structures such as bones or joints, or if there is evidence of infection, ischaemia, or deformity that requires specialist assessment and management. ¹