What is the Difference Between Courses for Foot Health Practitioners and Chiropodists (Podiatrists)?
Choosing a profession in foot care can provide you with an exciting and very rewarding career. Because there are different training options to choose from you might be wondering which one is best for you. If attending university and taking the longer degree option of Chiropody (Podiatry) training does not suit you or your circumstances, then it is worthwhile considering learning to be a Foot Health Practitioner.
You can get a thorough knowledge and understanding of the subject in the comfort of your own home by distance learning. This is then supplemented with practical on-site training in a purpose- built clinic under the close supervision of a fully qualified chiropodist. Such a unique combination offers flexible learning along with personal support and experienced professional guidance, and teaches you everything you need to know to enjoy offering competent foot health services in the private sector.
There are significant differences between Foot Health Practitioner and Chiropody training so it's important to know which option will be the best for you. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you decide on taking your next step for a career in foot health.
Q: Once trained as a Foot Health Practitioner do I become a Chiropodist?
A: To train as a Chiropodist or Podiatrist takes 3 or more years at degree level so you wouldn't be qualified to use the name Chiropodist or Podiatrist after taking the Foot Health Practitioner training course.
Q: Why is the training duration different between a Chiropodist and a Foot Health Practitioner?
A: Chiropody training and degree level Podiatry courses cover full, in-depth training on the anatomy of the foot as well as providing the ability to prevent, diagnose, treat and rehabilitate abnormal conditions of both the foot and the lower legs. Because it also teaches ways to prevent and correct deformity, training takes much longer. People who want to work within larger organisations such as the NHS must choose the degree level Chiropodist training. Taking care of people's routine foot problems including hygiene, nail treatments, skin conditions, circulation and pain relief do not require you to have degree level Chiropody training.
Q: Will I be able to set up my own practice?
A: Yes, the professional accredited Foot Health Practitioner course will provide you with additional guidance on how to start your own practice and develop your own effective marketing strategy to help you succeed.
Q: Can I obtain suitable insurance as a Foot Health Practitioner?
A: Yes, once fully qualified you'll be able to obtain suitable insurance cover.
Q: Do I need any previous qualifications to become a Foot Health Practitioner?
A: No, you don't need any entry qualifications or any previous foot health experience. The Foot Health Practitioner course has been designed with newcomers in mind but is also suitable for anyone with some knowledge or previous foot health training. You'll learn everything you need to know to successfully run your own foot health practice in the private sector.
Q: Will I receive any practical training to help me?
A: Yes, the Foot Health Practitioner training is split in to 2 parts. The first part is the 12 home study modules you can learn at your own pace in the privacy of your own home. The second part is at the Foot Health School to complete your practical training. You attend either 5 or 11 consecutive clinical / practical training days to be able to complete the training and gain the award.
Q: What qualification will I have at the end of my training?
A: At the end of your Foot Health Practitioner course you'll receive a level 4 ABC Awards' Certificate. Whilst it is not at the degree level of a Chiropody course it is a quality assured diploma, recognised nationwide, and you'll be eligible for professional indemnity insurance.
Q: Will I be qualified enough to join professional registers or associations?
A: On completion of your Foot Health Practitioner award you can apply for memberships to The Register for Foot Health Professionals (R.F.H.P), a non-profit professional association to promote and support professionals in the Foot Health Practitioner industry, and The Affiliation of Ethical & Professional Therapists, - a professional body dedicated to assisting you in the promotion and growth of your practice.
Q: What if I need some help on the home study sections of my training?
A: Once you enrol on the Foot Health Practitioners course Stonebridge College will assign you a personal tutor who is available by phone or email to support you and offer guidance and advice when you need it. The class size of the practical training you attend is kept very small so you'll receive personal mentoring during the on-site training.
Get the full details of this highly commended Foot Health Practitioner Course now.
