How to digitalize a podiatry clinic step by step

Digitalizing a podiatry clinic isn't just buying a scanner. It means rethinking the workflow from the first consultation to insole delivery. This guide lays out the steps in the order they make sense to tackle.

1. Audit your current workflow

Time how long you spend per patient from impression to delivery. Identify the bottlenecks: is it scanning, designing, manufacturing or logistics with the lab?

2. Pick the capture method

Two options: iPhone app with photogrammetry (no extra investment) or dedicated 3D scanner (better precision, higher cost). Both produce usable STL; the choice depends on patient volume.

3. Roll out the design software

A parametric tool like ELISA removes the CAD learning curve. Your team can generate insoles on day one with anonymous patients, internal references and per-case folders.

4. Decide in-house or external manufacturing

If you print in-clinic, you need a professional 3D printer (SLS or MJF are the best for lattice). If you outsource, hire a lab that accepts print-ready STL or use ELISA's print-on-demand service.

5. Train the team and measure

Two 90-minute sessions typically suffice for a team of 3–5 to adopt the new flow. After three months, review the key metric: patients per week and average time per case.