Martin recently attended a parliamentary briefing hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Vascular and Venous Disease to discuss critical reforms needed for vascular care across the UK.
The drop-in event highlighted that vascular disease remains a leading cause of preventable disability and premature death in the UK, with patient outcomes currently lagging behind other time-critical conditions like stroke and heart disease. MPs were briefed on the high number of avoidable lower-limb amputations occurring each year due to delayed diagnoses and fragmented care. The APPG is calling for a shift toward a community-first, prevention-led model of care, which includes implementing a National Foot Attack Pathway, establishing community Foot Protection Services, and introducing national maximum waiting time standards.
Martin adds, "I was pleased to attend the vascular care briefing in Parliament this week to support the vital campaign for reform. It is deeply concerning that so many people suffer avoidable harm and amputations due to delays in diagnosis and inconsistent access to specialist care.
"It is vital that the government ensures that vascular care is given the priority it deserves."
