What does a Podiatrist do?
A podiatrist is qualified to treat, give advice and manage all lower limb and foot conditions. In the event that more specialist treatment is required eg. Surgery, we have the best specialist contacts to ensure you are pointed to the most skilled specialists suited to your condition. Our scope of practice is large. Please refer to our Things We Do Page
What training or qualifications do Podiatrists have?
All podiatrists are university trained and have a Bachelor of Podiatry qualification. This is an important distinction as many people in the community, particularly in aged care are being treated by foot carers under the misinterpretation they are podiatrists. Rest assured all of our podiatrists are suitably qualified. All our podiatrists are members of the Australian Podiatry Association and registered with the Podiatry Board of Australia.
I thought Podiatrists just cut people’s toenails. Is this right?
Many moons ago a podiatrist was referred to as a Chiropodist. While we still do nail cutting, corn and callus removal, the term podiatry is more scientifically accurate as we now deal with all medical and functional aspects related to the feet and legs. Refer to our Things We Do Page.
My GP says I have to see a Podiatrist because I have diabetes, but my feet are fine?
All people with Diabetes should have their feet checked. Early intervention is vital and diabetes changes your feet in ways you cannot necessarily see or feel. How often you need to be seen will be outlined for you based on or clinical tests in line with the Australian Diabetes Association guidelines. Usually this will be only once per year.
My GP has given me some paperwork for the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care (or Chronic Disease Management) Plan. How does it work?
Let us know this when you make an appointment or at the time of your appointment so that we can issue you with a unique receipt. This receipt will entitle you to a rebate from Medicare Australia. You are entitled to up to 5 rebated visits per year depending on the allocation your GP indicates. It is important to know that you are still able to access our services beyond that allocation if required however Medicare Australia will not provide rebate.
Do I need a referral?
In most instances no. Podiatry is an allied health primary care provider. This means that anyone can access our services without a referral. Simply call or email for an appointment.
If you are entitled to health care as part of a Multidisciplinary Care Plan (Enhanced Primary Care Plan) or Department of Veteran Affairs Gold card you will need a referral from your GP. These referrals last for 12 months
I have a muscle/sports injury. Can a Podiatrist help me?
Yes. Podiatry has a very wide scope of practice. If you have a foot, ankle or lower leg problem of any sort we are likely to be able to help.
Can I claim on Medicare or Private Health insurance?
Medicare can be claimed if a Multidisciplinary Care Plan (Enhanced Primary Care Plan) is registered by your doctor. Not everyone is eligible as you require a chronic medical condition that is related to the podiatry care you will be receiving. Eligibility is at the GP’s discretion, not the podiatrist.
Most ancillary (extra’s) packages will have cover for podiatry. Your level of cover is often reflected by the extras package you pay for. If unsure please consult your health fund.
To make an appointment for us to assess and discuss your condition simply Phone: (03) 9731 7333
Alternatively please feel free to email us at info@werribeepodiatry.com.au