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Diabetic foot units in Spain: knowing the facts using a questionnaire
José Antonio Rubio1, Javier Aragón-Sánchez2, José L Lázaro-Martínez3
1Departamento de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España.
Summary
The number of specialized diabetic foot units (DFUs) in Spain is insufficient, providing care for only 25% of the diabetic population. Enhancing DFU creation and improving existing units is crucial for better diabetic foot care.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Diabetic foot complications represent a significant health burden.
- Effective management requires specialized Diabetic Foot Units (DFUs).
- The current provision of DFUs in Spain was not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the number of DFUs in Spain.
- To identify specialists involved in DFU care.
- To assess the population coverage provided by existing DFUs.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was developed based on International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot (ICDF) guidelines.
- The survey was distributed to members of relevant Spanish scientific societies in late 2012.
- Population coverage was estimated using the 2012 national census data.
Main Results:
- 64 general hospitals responded, representing 13% of national hospitals and covering 43% of the population.
- Only 34 centers reported having a DFU, providing specialized care to just 25% of the population.
- DFUs varied in complexity, with 5 basic, 20 intermediate, and 9 excellence units.
Conclusions:
- The study identified a low number of DFUs in Spain, with inadequate coverage for the diabetic population.
- There is a clear need for the Spanish health system to expand the number and improve the quality of existing DFUs.
- Enhanced DFU infrastructure is essential to improve outcomes for patients with diabetes and prevent foot complications.
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