Frequently Asked Questions
I've never seen a podiatrist - what do they actually do?
A podiatrist is a registered, qualified health professional who specialises in assessing, diagnosing and treating all disorders of the feet and lower limbs.
This can include anything from foot pain, nail disorders, skin problems, diabetic foot problems, acute injuries, and much more.
Click here to read more about our treatments and services.
Do I need a referral?
No, you don't need a referral to see a podiatrist.
Do I get a Medicare rebate for podiatry?
Patients who have an Allied Health Medicare Referral (care plan) from their GP may be entitled to a Medicare rebate. We must hold a valid referral addressed to Footsteps Podiatry to enable us to process a Medicare claim at the time of your appointment.
You will be required to pay the full consultation fee on completion of your appointment, after which the Medicare rebate can be processed on your behalf.
Contact your GP to discuss your eligibility for an Allied Health Medicare Referral.
Please note: whilst we are able to submit a Medicare claim on your behalf, we do not have control over failed or rejected Medicare claims. In this instance, we will provide a printed copy of your invoice for you to follow up with Medicare directly. For assistance with Medicare claims, you can head to Medicare online services or call 132 011.
Can I use my private health insurance?
Podiatry care is usually covered under extras cover in private health insurance policies. Contact your private health insurance provider directly to find out what services you are covered for.
If you would like help with specific item numbers please contact our friendly reception team.
Private Health Insurance claims can be processed at the time of your appointment via Tyro. Patients will need to have their health fund card or where applicable, a digital health fund card. Alternatively, our receptionists are happy to provide an itemised invoice, which you can then submit to your health fund.
This is my first appointment - do I need to bring anything with me?
Please bring any orthotics (new or old) - this will give us an idea of current or past foot/leg issues.
Wear or bring the shoes you spend the most time in e.g. school shoes, work shoes or boots, or shoes you exercise or play sport in. If you experience discomfort or pain in a specific pair of shoes, please bring these with you.
We recommend wearing loose fitting pants or shorts to allow the podiatrist to easily assess and treat your feet, ankles and legs.
Please bring any medical documentation relating to your concerns, including medical imaging reports or referrals from other practitioners.
We ask that patients remove nail polish before attending for any general footcare or nail treatments.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes, we do. We are committed to providing the best service to our clients and your time is important to us.
We ask that our clients respect the time commitment of ourselves and other patients by providing adequate notice for cancellations; this allows us to offer these appointment times to clients on our waiting list.
Any cancellation made less than 24 hours before your scheduled appointment will result in a cancellation fee. Failure to attend any appointment without notice will incur a cancellation fee. In both instances, the fee will be equal to the full fee for the scheduled service/s.
If you arrive late for your appointment we may need to cancel/reschedule, or we may be unable to complete the full treatment due to inadequate time remaining. In the event of late arrivals resulting in shortened, cancelled, or rescheduled appointments, the full fee of the scheduled service/s is still payable.
I'm an NDIS participant - can I book in with you?
Do you accept Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) referrals?
Yes, we accept DVA referrals from your GP. This referral or D904 form must be addressed to Footsteps Podiatry.
Patients must have a current D904 form at the start of each treatment cycle.
Speak to your GP or visit the DVA website to learn more about allied health treatment cycles.
Do you offer home visit services?
Yes, we offer home visit services to patients who are unable to attend the clinic. Please contact us to discuss whether you are eligible for home visit services and confirm fees.
How often do I need to see a podiatrist?
The answer to this question will be different for everyone. Some patients see us every 5 - 10 weeks for routine footcare, and others may only see us once a year for an annual diabetes assessment or orthotic review.
Your podiatrist will speak with you about their recommendations for ongoing treatment. We work with you to ensure our treatment approach fits your lifestyle.
