Frequently Asked Questions
Why visit a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is an expert in the foot, ankle and lower leg. A podiatrist studies for four years and specialises purely in disorders of the foot, ankle and lower leg.
Foot problems can affect everyone from; children to adults and the elderly; and from inactive people to athletes.
Treatment from a podiatrist can take many forms such as general nail care, minor surgery, biomechanical assessments, footwear advice and the provision of orthotics or insoles. There is not one solution that fits everyone so come and see North Queensland Podiatry to find out more and relieve your sore feet or ankle, knee, leg or lower back pain.
Can I use my private health cover?
Yes, you can use your private health cover. North Queensland Podiatry utilises HICAPS which is an electronic health claims and payments system that enables claims to be processed on the spot.
Health funds have various levels of cover; check that podiatry is covered by your health fund. If you require podiatry on a regular basis we recommend that you upgrade your cover to include podiatry.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. You can see a Podiatrist without a doctor’s referral.
However, if you are seeing a Podiatrist through WorkCover, Medicare or the Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) then yes a referral is required from a doctor, surgeon or allied health professional.
Can I claim my podiatry visits on Medicare?
Yes, some patients are able to claim their podiatry visits through Medicare under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) scheme. The Enhanced Primary Care scheme allows eligible patients up to 5 podiatry visits per year. Discuss with your doctor whether you are eligible for this scheme
Can I use my Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) card?
DVA Gold Card Holder – Yes, if you are DVA Gold Card holder then podiatry services are covered. North Queensland Podiatry is able to bulk bill these services meaning you have no out-of-pocket costs.
DVA White Card Holder – If you are a DVA White Card holder then you are only covered for conditions that are recognised by DVA. Contact DVA to see if you are eligible for podiatry services. If you are eligible for podiatry services then North Queensland Podiatry is able to bulk bill for services.
