In short: you can book online at our Windsor, St Helena and Burwood East clinics, or call (03) 9111 0085 for any of our four Melbourne clinics. Most patients do not need a referral — only Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card holders and WorkCover clients do.
What happens at your first appointment
Your first visit is mostly about getting the diagnosis right. We will ask about your symptoms, your footwear, your medical history and how active you are, then examine your feet and lower limbs properly. Where it helps, that includes watching how you walk.
From there we explain what we have found in plain language and agree a plan with you. Many problems — corns, callus, a troublesome nail — are treated in that same appointment.
What to bring
- The shoes you wear most often, and your sports shoes if the problem relates to activity. Wear patterns tell us a great deal.
- Your private health fund card, so we can process the rebate on the spot through HICAPS.
- Your Medicare card and EPC referral if your GP has arranged an Enhanced Primary Care plan.
- Any orthotics, insoles or braces you already use, even if they did not help.
- A list of your medications, and any relevant scans or reports.
Rebates and payment
All major Australian health funds cover podiatry, though the rebate depends on your level of cover. Every one of our clinics has HICAPS, so you claim on the spot and pay only the gap. We accept Visa, Mastercard and EFTPOS.
Medicare covers podiatry for people with certain long-term chronic conditions such as diabetes, long-term arthritis or vascular disease. You will need to see your GP first to have an Enhanced Primary Care plan put in place. Places under that scheme are limited, so please mention it when you book.
Changing or cancelling
If something comes up, let us know as early as you can so we can offer the time to someone else. Online bookings can be changed through the confirmation email you receive, or you can simply call the clinic.
Common questions about booking
Do I need a referral?
No, not for most people. Private patients and those claiming through private health cover can book directly. Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card holders and WorkCover clients do need to present a referral.
Why can I only book online at two clinics?
Our Windsor, St Helena and Burwood East clinics run their own live calendars, so you can see real availability and book instantly. Clayton operates inside a larger medical centre, so those appointments are booked over the phone. You will still usually be offered a time within the same week.
How long is an appointment?
It depends on what you are coming in for. A first assessment needs longer than a routine review, and treatments such as laser wart removal or a biomechanical assessment are booked differently again. If you are not sure which to choose, call us and we will book the right one.
Can I request a particular podiatrist?
Yes. The online calendar lets you choose a practitioner where more than one is available at that clinic, and if you call we will always try to book you with whoever you have seen before. You can read about Gideon and Bryce first if you would like.
Can you see my child?
Absolutely — both of our podiatrists practise paediatrics. See children’s podiatry for what to expect, and mention your child’s age when booking so we allow enough time.
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. Reviewed by Gideon Poratt, Principal Podiatrist (B.App.Sc (Pod), M.A.Pod.A), a member of the Australian Podiatry Association. Please book an assessment for advice specific to your feet.