+ What is a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists (sometimes called Foot Doctors) are experts in foot, ankle and lower limb health. Podiatrists can help to prevent, diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions.

+ Do I need a referral to see a Podiatrist?

As Podiatrists are primary health care providers, no GP referral is necessary to access podiatry assessment and care.

+ Does Medicare cover Podiatry?

Medicare provides a rebate for podiatry for patients who are on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan, formely referred to as the Enhance Primary Care (EPC) scheme. You can read more about the CDM here. Your GP will determine if you are eligible for the programme. Once you’ve been assessed, you will need to have an appropriate referral form from your GP who will need to send you to a specific podiatry clinic - hopefully us!

As at Jan 2022, the medicare rebate covers $55.10 per consult. The remainder of the small gap will need to be covered by you. If you have a referral, please bring it with you to your appointment.For the latest rebate amount visit here.

If you do not have a valid CDM/EPC referral, you will not be able to claim a rebate, and have to pay privately for the appointment.

+ Does my private health insurance cover Podiatry?

Podiatry is often included under extras in a majority of private health insurance policies. However, we highly recommend to confirm with your healthcare provider prior to your appointment.

+ How can I pay for my appointment?

Both our Brunswick and South Melbourne clinics accept cash, Visa, MasterCard and EFTPOS. If you have your private health insurance card you can claim your benefit on the spot using our HICAPS facility, so the out of pocket expense is only the gap.

+ What should I bring with me on my first visit?

Please bring any relevant medical imaging for your condition, previous orthotics or insoles. If you are coming for an initial or biomechanical assessment we recommend that you bring in a selection of your current footwear including runners, work shoes and everyday shoes so we can offer footwear advice. If you have an EPC/CDM referral, please bring this along with you.

+ Do you have HICAPS?

Yes, all our clinics have HICAPS.

+ What is HICAPS?

HICAPS is an electronic claiming system which allows members of participating private health funds to make electronic claims on the spot. This means you don't need to visit your health fund with an invoice to claim back your 'gap' or cover. 98% of insurers plus Worksafe and Medicare have partnered with HICAPS, for a full list click here.

+ I think I need Diagnostic Imaging (X-Ray, Ultrasound). Will you be able to arrange this?

If diagnostic testing is required, e.g. x-rays or ultrasounds, ProPodiatry Clinic will be able to provide you with the required referral. However, there may be some complex image that can only be referred by our GP, in which case ProPodiatry Clinic will advise you.

+ Can I access Podiatry with NDIS?

We are a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider.If there is a clinical need and your NDIS plan allows for therapy supports for daily living, you should be able to access podiatry services with us. You can read more about it here.