Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Assisting and Caring for Others Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Working Life

A podiatrist is a highly qualified healthcare professional who provides preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of a range of problems affecting the feet, ankles and legs.

In the HSE Physiotherapists are part of a clinical workforce called Health & Social Care Professionals, who work together with medical and nursing colleagues as a team in the delivery of clinical, therapeutic and social care.

Podiatry is a profession of health sciences concerned with the research, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of deformaties, pathologies, and injuries of the foot and associated structures - in relation with the body as well as the manifestations of systemic diseases. They improve people's mobility, independence and the quality of life for their patients.

The scope of practice of a podiatrist ranges from management of skin and nail pathologies, management of patients with disease that can compromise the viability of the foot and lower limb e.g. diabetes, vascular disease and wound care, biomechanical and gait analysis, sports injuries, paediatrics, and minor surgical procedures. 

Many people have a problem with their feet at some time, often in later life. The work Podiatrists do to overcome or prevent foot problems is an important part of healthcare services. Being able to help people so directly makes a Podiatrist's career very rewarding.  
 
The centre of your clinical work is to assess, diagnose and treat diseases and abnormalities of the foot. Your patients will be of all ages - from infants to the elderly. Health promotion is another important aspect. 
 
The Podiatrist's work can vary greatly from patient to patient, depending on the individual problem and the plan you have drawn up to treat it. The aim is to cure the patient's problem, whenever possible, and to prevent it recurring - or any new one developing.  
 
Unfortunately, not all problems can be cured or prevented, especially in older people. In these cases, the aim of the treatment is to keep your patients as free of pain as possible, enabling them to remain mobile, and to stop matters becoming worse.

Where Will I Work

Within the HSE, podiatrists can work independently, as part of a larger podiatry service, in specialist teams or as part of a multidisciplinary team across community or hospital services.

Podiatrists can work alongside many other health professionals such as doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, orthotists, occupational therapists and other Health and Social Care Professionals to name a few.

The HSE is the biggest employer in Ireland for this occupation. Further information from the HSE on the duties and skills for this occupation can be found here.

Apart from the HSE you may work in private healthcare and clinics, in GP practices, with sports clubs and specialised services such as Diabetes Ireland. There are opportunities in teaching, clinical education and supervision. Many podiatrists set up a private practice. 

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Surgically treat conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, or abscesses.
• Diagnose diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, x-rays, and laboratory test results.
• Prescribe medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery.
• Advise patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems.
• Treat bone, muscle, and joint disorders affecting the feet and ankles.
• Refer patients to physicians when symptoms indicative of systemic disorders, such as arthritis or diabetes, are observed in feet and legs.
• Make and fit prosthetic appliances.
• Correct deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping.
• Perform administrative duties, such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, or keeping records.
• Educate the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums.

Further Information

• Chiropodist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
• Chiropody Assistant- from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

CORU Requirements

There are a variety of study routes for students wishing to pursue a career in the health and social care professions. However, not all courses lead to the direct path of being able to practise in Ireland once qualified. In Ireland, if you want to practise as a Podiatrist / Chiropodist, you must be registered with CORU, - Ireland's regulator of health and social care professionals.

One of the functions of the Registration Boards at CORU is to approve and monitor education and training programmes. The purpose of regulating education and training programmes is to ensure that all graduates entering the Register meet the necessary standards and have the knowledge and skills required for public protection. This ensures the delivery of safe and effective practise to the benefit of the service user.

What does this mean when selecting a course to study in Ireland?

This is the current list of Approved Qualifications to work as a Podiatrist / Chiropodist. If you achieve one of these qualifications, you are eligible to apply for CORU registration.

What about studying abroad, and practising in Ireland once qualified?

If your professional qualification is awarded outside of Ireland and you want to register and work in Ireland, the process is a little more complex. You must first apply to have that qualification recognised by the Registration Board for your profession.

To be eligible to apply for recognition of your international qualification, you must have completed professional training, which gives you eligibility to practise your profession in the country where you were awarded the qualification.

The Registration Board will assess your qualification as well as any other relevant qualifications and work experience for compliance with the standards required for practising in Ireland.

If you are unsure about health and social care regulation, CORU is happy to help with any questions. You can contact CORU at [email protected]

There are multiple entry routes to the Podiatry profession;

• Undergraduate BSc in Podiatric Medicine 
• MSc in Podiatric Medicine 

Podiatrists are required to be registered with CORU, the regulatory body for Health and Social Care Professionals. 

Click here for Information on Approved Qualifications and Registration with CORU.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: podiatric medicine.

Search for CAO Courses

Study in Northern Ireland Podiatry BSc (Hons) Ulster University - Apply via UCAS

Mature Entry

All candidates are required to apply through CAO. Mature Entry is for those that are 23 years of age or older by 1st January in the year of entry. Mature entry route is based on applying for a course via www.cao.ie by 1st February. Applicants may be required to sit an assessment test or attend an interview. 

Places are limited and mature applicants must satisfy the minimum entry requirements for the programme and will also be assessed based on each Colleges [RPL] Recognition of prior learning.

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8). 

Example search terms include: MSc Podiatric Medicine (Pre- Registration), Podiatric Medicine - research.

University of Galway MSc Podiatric Medicine (Pre Registration)

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Career/ Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world. 

In the HSE you could progress your career as a Senior Podiatrist or as a Clinical Specialist in a specific area such as diabetes, orthopaedics, rheumatology or renal. Further information on clinical, management and educational pathways for career progression in the HSE is available here.

The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Continuing Professional Development of HSCPs working the the HSE. There are many ways of deepening your skills pertinent to your role as a Podiatrist within a specific setting. This can be achieved, for example, through postgraduate training or clinical courses.

HSeLanD  the Irish Health Services's online learning and development portal offers an array of training and development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom setting.

Apart from the HSE there are diverse career opportunties in private healthcare, sports medicine, non-profit organisations, medical sales, education and research. 

Further information is available from Podiatry Ireland.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €42k - €93k

Salaries Vary by employer, location, role, duties, shift pattern, and experience. 

Data Source(s):
HSE/ Indeed

Last Updated: August, 2024

This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Psychologists, Pharmacists, Opticians (including dispensing opticians), Dental practitioners, Medical radiographers, Podiatrists, Health professionals n.e.c., Health services and public health managers and directors, Social services managers and directors, Health care practice managers.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).

Employment growth for this occupation was above the national average, although employment levels have declined annually since 2021. Employment was spread across a large number of roles, with low numbers in employment in each making it difficult to determine any changes in individual occupations. Overall, 69% were female, a quarter were in part-time roles and there was a slightly higher than average share who were aged 55 years and over.

Online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) were primarily for health services and public health managers/directors, and to a lesser extent, pharmacists. Employment permits issued were mainly for radiographers, but also included cardiac physiologists, dentists, psychologists and pharmacists.

Evidence of shortages is difficult to determine for these roles due to the small numbers employed.

• Health Service Executive (HSE)

  • Dr Steevens' Hospital, Steevens Lane, Dublin, 8
  • 041 685 0300
  • Click Here

• Chiropody Podiatry Ireland

  • The Irish Chiropodists/Podiatrists Organisation Ltd. Registered Office: I.CP.O. Ltd, Avondale House, The Square, Ballincollig, Co Cork, Ireland
  • 021 4874560
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• CORU - Regulating Health & Social Care Professionals

  • Infinity Building, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 E98Y
  • (01) 293 3160
  • [email protected]/ [email protected]/ [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Society of Chiropodists/Podiatrists of Ireland

  • 77 Lower Camden Street Dublin 2 Ireland D02 XE80
  • 086 4672046
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here