Table 5 Showing Pre-FC and Post-FC responses to the two open questions

What do you feel is the public understanding of your profession (positive or negative aspects)?

Most members of the public do not understand what we do and who we are.

The general public seem to think it’s just nail cutting and callus removal, only patients directly involved in the services understand the role we play in healthcare. This view is also sadly shared with students from other professions that I have encountered so far during my studies.

Podiatry- it’s just cutting toenails. It’s a bit more than that.

I feel that those who have not used a podiatry service would not understand the profession and why we chose it.

I feel a lot more education is needed as if people have an issue with their mouth, they head straight to the dentist, but if they have foot pain, they always go to the doctor, never straight to a podiatrist.

I don’t think people understand the full scope of a career in podiatry. Most people think of it as just toenail cutting but don’t realise that the career options within podiatry are so diverse.

Not really aware of it until they are older or have a problem. Most people say ‘oh my god why do you want to touch feet’?.

I think the majority of people are unaware of the extent of the training, knowledge and expertise of a podiatrist.

For those who use the service very positive but for those who don’t mostly negative.

The general public may not have a good understanding of podiatry profession as it is confused with the work of beauty salons or other foot practitioners with no degree.

From what you know now as a student on your course, what advice would you give someone interested in this profession?

Definitely to look into this profession … it is perfect for an academic student who may be a little burnt out from exams and looking for a blend of hands on and book- based assessments.

To go for it as there are so many different paths to go down and progression is excellent. No day is the same and the range and variety of locations and treatments is fantastic.

Get as much work experience as you can from private practice and NHS public settings to get a flavour of what it’s like working as a podiatrist.

Go and get as much information about the role as they can, I would also let them know about the heavy academic workload.

See if you can organise work experience and ask questions.

To definitely go for it. Be realistic about where you do your programme if you have other commitments that mean you can’t relocate to where your uni. is. It can get very expensive otherwise.

Research funding opportunities available to undertake the course.