Referrals

Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) is reminding GP colleagues across Kent and Medway that its Podiatry Service provides access to nail surgery, with an open referral criterion in place. This follows feedback that some practices are not referring patients due to a perception that nail surgery is not available through the service resulting in avoidable delays for patients who could otherwise be treated earlier.

KCHFT's Podiatry Service includes provision for minor surgical procedures for nail conditions, such as ingrowing toenails, alongside broader management of complex foot health issues. It has an open criterion for nail surgery. Patients can be referred to the service via:

• self-referral via:
  KCHFT Podiatry webpage
  By calling 0300 123 6756 or emailing kentchft.podiatryqueries@nhs.net to request a referral form
• health professional referral
• NHS e-Referral Service (eRS) via their GP.

Self-referral is available for eligible patients registered with a GP, supporting direct access to assessment and reducing administrative burden on practices.

GP practices are encouraged to refer patients with appropriate nail conditions directly to the KCHFT Podiatry Service, rather than managing recurrent or complex cases within primary care alone.

Full details of nail surgery service.