The podiatry screening programme that assesses the health of children’s feet has been extended to all State schools in Gozo and Malta.
This was announced by Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela and Minister for Education Clifton Grima.
At the beginning of the year a pilot project for this initiative was introduced in a number of schools with the aim of assessing the health of the feet of children aged between six and seven years old.
It was explained how the pilot project involved an examination of 235 students of which 24 students were referred for further consultation at the Podopaediatrics Clinic in Birkirkara where they are receiving specialised care to address their specific needs.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela said how through the collaboration between schools and health care professionals in this initiative it means a commitment to the general well-being of the students, which ensures a strong foundation for the their future.
He explained how taking care of the feet from a young age is very important because it supports a person the older he gets. “We look forward to this programme also being extended in church schools and in independent schools so that in collaboration together, we can continue to carry out and offer health care for the good of the community,” concluded the Minister Abela
Minister Clifton Grima said that collaboration between ministries and governmental entities are leading to improve the well-being of students in schools. “This is another collaboration that is bearing fruit in an important sector, the health of our children,” said Minister Grima.
Photo: DOI/Clodagh O-Neill