Limited-time podiatry clinic launches in Wairoa as locals struggle for care

Wairoa’s diabetes patients get long-awaited podiatry care. Photo / Getty Images

A new monthly podiatry clinic launched in Wairoa is bringing a much-needed service closer to home for the community.

The clinic, which began last month, is dedicated to treating high-risk diabetic patients and is operated by podiatrist Dr Jackson Clince, who has a special interest in diabetes-related foot health.

Clince and a nurse will travel from Palmerston North once a month to run the clinic at Queen St Practice.

The podiatrist said the first day exceeded expectations, with all 35 scheduled patients attending.

“People were energised to turn up. They were there early, and no one missed an appointment,” he said.

With a population of about 5000 people and an estimated 400 to 600 with diabetes conditions, the community response reflects the long-awaited need for this type of healthcare in Wairoa.

“Diabetes has a big impact on the eyes, kidneys, and feet,” Clince said.

The condition can cause nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, increasing the risk of infections, ulcers, and even amputations, making podiatry essential for early detection.

“Our role is to assess neurologically what’s happening in the foot, what are the sensations that people pick up around their feet, then provide education on wound prevention and address vascular concerns,” Clince said.

He highlighted the increasing impact of diabetes around the country, “particularly in rural and small communities”.

The podiatry clinic is a six-month initiative funded by Health NZ and will be reviewed in June to determine its future.

Health Minister Simeon Brown said the new Wairoa clinic aligned with the Government’s goal of ensuring access to timely healthcare.

“My expectation is that Health New Zealand delivers quality healthcare for all New Zealanders, ensuring people can access services closer to them,” he said.

The minister acknowledged broader healthcare challenges in Wairoa, including access to dental and aged care services.

“Health New Zealand is currently assessing options on how to best deliver aged care in Wairoa, and that work is under way on a new mobile dental clinic to bring services to the community,” he said.