Podiatry

What is Podiatry?

Podiatry is the study of problems with the lower limbs, ankles and feet.

A Podiatrist treats:

• bone and joint disorders
• bunions, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails and tinea
• pain caused by flat feet or high arches.

Podiatrists work in a broad range of areas, including:

• aged care 
• diabetes 
• paediatrics
• sports injuries.

Podiatrists with additional qualifications and registration may perform foot surgery.

Is Podiatry a regulated profession in Australia? 

Yes. In Australia, the Australian Health Practitioner Board (Ahpra) and the Podiatry Board of Australia regulate Podiatrists.

Does private health insurance cover Podiatry?

If your private health insurance covers Podiatry, it falls under Extras Cover.

If your private health insurance covers Orthoses (Podiatric), it falls under Extras Cover.

If your private health insurance covers Podiatric Surgery, it falls under Hospital Cover.

Ask your insurer whether it covers Podiatry, Orthoses (Podiatric) and Podiatric Surgery.

If so, check whether Podiatry, Orthoses (Podiatric) and Podiatric Surgery are subject to:

• a waiting period before you can make a claim
• per claim limits
• annual limits.

If I have Extras Cover that includes Podiatry, will I be covered if I see any Podiatrist?

No. To be covered, your Podiatrist must be a member of an Australian peak body or professional organisation. They must also have permission to be registered under the state and territory laws where they operate.

In addition, your health insurer can decide whether or not to cover treatments from a particular provider.

Some insurers may require you to see a Podiatrist who is one of their recognised providers only.

Before seeking treatment, always check with your health insurer that you are covered.

Does Medicare cover Podiatry?

Yes. Medicare covers Podiatry treatments but only in certain situations, including: 

You:

• have a chronic condition and complex care needs, or
• live in an aged care facility, or
• are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent

and:

• your GP recommends Podiatry
• the consultation lasts at least 20 minutes
• you receive no more than 5 services in a calendar year.

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