title: The assessment and management of diabetes related lower limb problems in India-an action research approach to integrating best practice.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  In this article the authors explore the current issues and barriers related to achieving successful outcomes to diabetic foot complications in India. This was achieved by engaging clinicians in taking ownership of the problems and facilitating them in the identification of solutions to action change in clinical practice.
  
  
  METHODS
  This was accomplished through facilitating participants in this study via a process of problem identification and planning, the first phases of an action research cycle approach. The methods of data collection were focus groups, observations and individual conversations. The data were analysed using a thematic framework.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Based on the practitioner's experiences and opinions, key themes were identified. These themes had the potential to inform the changes needed in clinical practice, to overcome barriers and embed ownership of the solutions. Five themes were identified highlighting: concerns over a fragmented service; local recognition of need; lack of standardised care pathways; lack of structured assessment and an absence of annual foot screening. Combined, the issues identified were thought to be important in preventing timely assessment and management of foot problems.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It was unanimously agreed that a formalised process of foot assessment should be developed and implemented as part of the subsequent phases of the action research process, which the authors intended to take forward and report in a further paper. The aim of which is to guide triage, education, care pathways, audit and evaluation of outcomes. Facilitation of the clinicians in developing a program and screening tool to implement and teach these skills to others could be an important step in reducing the number of high-risk cases that are often resulting in the amputation of limbs.
authors.affiliation: Directorate of Podiatry and Prosthetics & Orthotics, School of Health Sciences, College of health and social care, University of Salford, Frederick Road, Salford M6 6PU, UK.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Harrison-Blount
authors.affiliation: Directorate of Podiatry and Prosthetics & Orthotics, School of Health Sciences, College of health and social care, University of Salford, Frederick Road, Salford M6 6PU, UK.
authors.forename: Michelle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cullen
authors.affiliation: Directorate of Podiatry and Prosthetics & Orthotics, School of Health Sciences, College of health and social care, University of Salford, Frederick Road, Salford M6 6PU, UK.
authors.forename: Christopher J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Nester
authors.affiliation: Directorate of Podiatry and Prosthetics & Orthotics, School of Health Sciences, College of health and social care, University of Salford, Frederick Road, Salford M6 6PU, UK.
authors.forename: Anita E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Williams
keywords: Care pathway; Diabetes; Focus groups; Foot screening; Participatory action research