Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is delighted to welcome two new Orthotists to its growing Orthotics service, strengthening specialist support for people across Argyll and Bute.
The appointments mark an important milestone in the development of a new, locally-delivered Orthotics service following the end of a previous outsourced arrangement. The service has been designed around the needs of people across Argyll and Bute, helping to improve access to assessments and treatment while supporting more sustainable service delivery and delivering cost savings.
Orthotists play a vital role in supporting people with a wide range of conditions affecting mobility, posture and musculoskeletal health. They assess patients and provide specialist devices, such as braces, insoles and other orthotic equipment, designed to improve comfort, independence and quality of life.
The team is also celebrating a personal achievement for one of its newest recruits.
After being shortlisted for Practice Educator of the Year, Clare Carson, Advanced Practice Orthotist, went on to win the award on 4 September, recognising her significant contribution to educating, supporting and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Clare described the nomination and award as “a real honour” and said she is looking forward to building connections with colleagues and patients across Argyll and Bute.
Rachel McBride, Senior Orthotist, said: "I'm excited to be joining NHS Highland as we work to develop and establish this new Orthotics service. It's a fantastic opportunity to improve access to orthotic care across the region, making a positive difference for patients and working closely with them and healthcare colleagues to help achieve their individual goals."
Associate Allied Health Professions Director, Linda Currie, said: "We are delighted to welcome our new Orthotists to Argyll and Bute. These appointments represent a significant step forward in the development of our Orthotics service and demonstrate our commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care for local communities.
"By developing a service tailored to the needs of people across Argyll and Bute, we can improve access to specialist support closer to home, enhance the patient experience and ensure we are making the best use of public resources."
The team is looking forward to working with patients, colleagues and partners across Argyll and Bute as the service continues to develop.