Frequently asked questions
Appointments
There is no formal requirement for a referral from your GP in order to see a podiatrist. You may simply call and make an appointment. Many private health funds will cover ancillary providers; it may be advisable to contact your provider to enquire as to whether podiatry is included in your extras. HICAPS facilities are available on site to allow ‘on-the-spot’ claiming for your convenience.
You will require a referral from your GP if you receive funding via:
· Department of Veterans Affairs
· Medicare (via Enhanced Primary Care [EPC])
· WorkCover
· TAC
Please note that there are certain requirements as per medicare to allow your GP to organise an EPC plan for you. It is always advised that you seek the opinion of your GP regarding your eligibility for the plan. Your GP will designate your EPC visits to a health care professional he/she feels is appropriate.
What to bring?
When visiting the podiatrist regarding aches and pains in your feet, it is advised to bring:
- Your primary footwear (2 or 3 pairs including casual and athletic)
- A pair of shorts as to allow easier biomechanical assessment (not essential)
- Any previous radiology and reports (X-rays, Ultrasounds, MRI’s etc)
- Your private health card if applicable.
- Your referral from your GP if you are EPC, WorkCover, TAC or DVA
Radiology
Podiatrists are trained in radiology throughout their degree. They are endorsed to refer for X-rays, Diagnostic Ultrasounds and MRI’s. X-rays and Ultrasounds receive a medicare rebate and are occasionally bulk billed (depending on the radiology clinic) when a patient is referred from their podiatrist. MRI scans will incur a fee from the radiology provider; however if you receive a referral from a medical or surgical specialist – this will result in a medicare rebate.
Does a podiatrist just specialise in feet?
No. Podiatrists are highly trained in the anatomy, physiology, function and pathology of the foot and lower leg. The foot is connected to the rest of your body, so it is imperative that podiatrists are trained in structures other than just the foot.
At All About Podiatry, we manage issues relating to the lower leg and ankle such as:
- Shin splints
- Calf pain and tightness
- Ankle pain
- Recurrent ankle sprains and injuries
Podiatrists also assess the influence of the feet and legs on the rest of the body. The way you walk or run can have a significant influence on areas such as hips and the lower back. A podiatrist will assess and educate you on how your biomechanics may or may not relate to such issues.
How long does an appointment go for?
This can vary from patient to patient. An initial podiatry consultation at All About Podiatry is 30 minutes, a subsequent consultation is generally 30 minutes. Longer appointments are required:
- Surgical podiatry (ingrown toe nail surgery)