BCHS part of state-wide foot screening program

We tend to take our feet for granted, especially when they don't hurt. But for those with diabetes, a minor scratch or bruise can become a real issue. That is why Battle Creek Health System took part of a state-wide foot screening program recently to bring public awareness to conditions of the feet.

"Because people with diabetes often lose some feeling in their feet, what seems like a small problem like a blister or splinter can lead to serious complications," says Dr. C.
William Wentworth, a member of the BCHS medical staff and a Battle Creek podiatrist who volunteered his time to do foot exams. "Everyone should check their feet periodically, but diabetics should do it every single day."

The purposes of this program are to:
*Teach participants the important of and how to conduct a self foot exam
*Inform and educate participants and the general public about the serious complications of diabetes
*Reduce the pain and suffering from complications caused by poor diabetic foot care

Other local providers participating in the one-day program included staff from the BCHS diabetes center, wound healing center, and Lifespan. For more information about diabetes and foot health care, call (269) 966-8190.

Battle Creek Health System, sponsored by two parent organizations--Trinity Health (the fourth largest Catholic health system in the U.S. with 21 hospitals, 9 nursing homes, 19 senior house facilities, 8 home health care agencies, and 4 hospices in Michigan alone) and BCHS Community Partners, is accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Battle Creek Health System, a member of the Mercy Cancer Network, is a recipient of the 2008 HealthGrades Orthopaedic Surgery Excellence Award(tm) and 2009 Five Star rated for joint replacement surgery and total knee replacement. HealthGrades is a leading health care information company that provides objective 'report card' ratings nationwide. BCHS provides excellent health care for the community and promotes wellness for the whole person with access and compassion for all. For the latest medical information, visit the BCHS web site at www.bchealth.com or call the BCHS Marketing Department at (269) 966-8132.

Dr. C. William Wentworth, left, performs a foot inspection for Jack Colver at Battle Creek Health System as part of a statewide foot screening initiative.