Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health

Description

Podiatrists assess, diagnose, treat and manage conditions of the feet and legs. Healthy feet are important for everyone. Foot care is especially important for people with specific conditions such as diabetes, which can cause foot problems. It is also very important for infants and children whose feet are still developing.

Services provided

  • Assessment and diagnosis
  • Development of a treatment program
  • Treatment and prevention of foot-related problems

Eligibility

Appointments may be made directly without a doctor’s referral.

Your doctor or other health professional may also refer you to a podiatrist.

How to access

Go to the Australian Podiatry AssociationExternal Link to find a podiatrist near you.

Costs

Podiatrist services may be partly or fully covered by Medicare.

Podiatrist’s fees are covered by some private health funds, but the amount will depend on your insurance policy. Contact your insurer for more information.

Profile

Sector

Conventional healthcare.

Regulation

Regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA).

Registration

Podiatrists must be registered through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), with the Podiatry Board of Australia.

Minimum qualifications

The minimum education requirement for a podiatrist is a Bachelor of Podiatry.

Tip

  • Take results of any tests with you (such as x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs).
  • Most common foot problems can be easily avoided and simply treated.
  • Make sure that you and your children wear shoes that fit properly and support your feet.