NEW ULM — Starting off on the right foot Tuesday, Brown County commissioners unanimously approved adding a foot care clinic as an added public health department service.

Action came on a motion by commissioner Scott Windschitl, seconded by Dave Borchert to add routine foot care in the public health department to help bridge a cap in the community.

Brown County Public Health Director Jaimee Brand said public health has been receiving phone calls from local residents asking about foot care options.

Brand partnered with the New Ulm Medical Center (NUMC) Podiatry Dept. to ask about the need for service. The medical center and public health will collaborate in a referral system to ensure clients receive routine foot care and more advanced care, if needed.

“There is overwhelming support from the NUMC Podiatry Dept., internal public health staff to provide routine foot care service,” said Brand.

She said currently, routine foot care is not covered by insurance. Public health would begin by offering one day per month foot care service for $20 in the office. Appointments would be scheduled for 30 minutes to allow time for care and for the nurse to complete documentation.

Brand said the routine foot care would include toenail filing and callous removal.

“Our current public health staff can do it. Medical center podiatrists see 10-16 patients a day. We can help reduce patient waiting time,” said Brand.

She said foot care clinic patients will be asked to soak their feel prior to coming to the clinic.

“We’re targeting people age 60 and up and disabled people but will be available to clients of all ages who may have access or functional needs that prevent them from completing their own foot care,” Brand said.

Commissioners voiced support.

“I think it’s great. I certainly support this,” said commissioner Borchert.

“This is something that is certainly needed,” said commissioner Windschitl.