FAQs

A.

Podiatry is the branch of medicine related to foot and lower limb disorders. The role of the podiatrist is to prevent or correct deformity and maintain normal mobility and function.
Podiatrists can manage any discomfort and problems of the lower limb. They also relieve pain, treat infections, nail, soft tissue and connective tissue problems.
Podiatrists can also give expert advice on footwear, so it is a good idea to take a pair of shoes with you when you next see your podiatrist.

A.

No, most patients, who come to the clinic as a private patient or who claim through their private health cover, do not require a referral.
A referral is only necessary if:

• Your doctor has recommended treatment as part of an Enhanced Primary Care Plan, which can allow up to 5 allied health visits. You will need to contact your GP to have an Enhanced Primary Care Plan first put into place BEFORE you make an appointment.
• You are a returned service veteran seeking treatment under a GOLD or WHITE card.
• You are seeking treatment under a work cover claim.

A.

If you have a chronic and complex medical condition, such as Diabetes, you may be eligible to receive a rebate though Medicare under the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program. You will need to discuss this with your GP. The current rebate is $58.30.

If you have any questions regarding EPC care plans, please feel free to contact us for information.

A.

Yes. DVA Gold Card holders will be covered fully for podiatry consultations and other treatment related expenses with a valid referral from their GP. Please contact us prior to seeking a referral to receive the necessary information for your GP. For other forms of Veterans’ Affairs Cards (such as Green or White cards) please contact DVA on 133 254 to check your podiatry related rebates.

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Yes, we offer the TYRO Healthpoint facility which processes health fund rebates on the spot. We advise patients to contact their health fund for further information regarding rebates. We will require payment upon the day of your consultation.

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Yes! All instruments at Kwinana Podiatry Clinic are cleaned, packaged & sterilised in an autoclave for each and every patient in accordance with infection control guidelines.

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Very Important, if you have either Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes, you should consult with your Podiatrist at least annually for a Neurovascular Assessment. Further treatments may be required if other issues are identified to put your feet at high risk. We help to prevent ulcerations and it’s related amputations. If you are experiencing any of the following, you should call for an appointment immediately.

• Pain in legs or feet, even when resting
• Skin colour & temperature changes
• Tingling, pins & needles or numbness
• Open sores

A.

Plantar warts are skin lesions on the feet or toes caused by the human papillomavirus. These lesions often appear as small, raised areas of skin that may be discoloured, painful or possibly itchy. These lesions can spread if left untreated.
Plantar warts can often be mistaken for callus (hardened skin) or corns and therefore it is important to have any lesions inspected by your podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

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Most likely no, patients are often surprised they feel little or no pain during treatment, yet they were putting up with unnecessary pain for a long time before seeking treatment.