What is a Podiatrist?
- A Podiatrist is a qualified allied health practitioner that can diagnose, treat and manage conditions of the foot and ankle.
- Podiatrists are also involved in education of patients on preventative measures to avoid foot complications.
What should I bring to my Podiatry Appointment?
- We like to get a good clinical picture for specific issues you are presenting for, for biomechanical assessments relating to foot/ankle pain we ask that you attend in clothes that you can walk/run in as we may need to conduct an assessment that requires you moving around. You would also need to bring in some shoes/footwear that you frequently wear for assessment and possible modifications.
- If you have any imaging, reports or referrals relating to your foot issue, please bring them in.
- For certain referrals we will require Medicare Card, DVA card, Private Health Insurance Card or TAC/Workcover documentation.
Do I need a referral to see a Podiatrist?
- You do not require a referral to make an appointment to see a Podiatrist, however some subsidies exist with certain referrals; A chronic disease management plan (CDM) organised through your GP may entitle you to a rebate from Medicare for 1-5 Podiatry visits. DVA Gold Card holders will need a referral from their GP to be able to have their visits claimed through DVA.
- Home Care Package and NDIS recipients required purchase orders / contracts sent through from their case managers in order for us to invoice the appointments to their providers.
- TAC and Workcover clients will need to provide documentation from TAC or Workcover to be eligible for visits through them respectively.
I have Private Health Insurance with Extras, can I claim my visit on the day?
- You absolutely can, depending on the podiatry coverage offered by your private health fund. It is best to check with your health fund for a more accurate quote, as the amount you can claim back for our services can vary depending on the health fund you’re with and your level of coverage.
- We can also provide you with a receipt of your visit from claiming at a later date, if you chose to do this instead.
Do you treat ingrown toenails?
- Ingrown toenails can be caused due to a range of reasons. Our Podiatrists are able to provide you with best-practice care and treatment for your ingrown toenails which may include routine nail care or discussing with you the option of ingrown toenail surgery for a more permanent treatment.
Do I need to see a Podiatrist if I have Diabetes?
- Having diabetes with uncontrolled blood sugar levels may affect your foot by causing: impaired circulation, nerve damage and foot shape changes.
- Podiatrists play a crucial role in preventing diabetic foot complications through regular screening as well as providing specialist wound care. Your podiatrist will perform a regular neurovascular assessment and diabetic foot assessment to monitor, prevent and manage your circulation, nerves and foot shape as well as provide education on how these changes may be prevented and monitored.
- We take a multidisciplinary approach by involving other relevant health professionals, such as your GP, to ensure the best outcome for your foot health.
Can you provide Medical Certificates?
- If you have missed work or school for an appointment at Grampians Podiatry Clinic, we are able to supply a medical certificate.
