Professional Info
Where can I find a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists work in a variety of settings including private practices, hospitals, community health centres, day centres, GP clinics and nursing homes. Some podiatrists also provide home visits for clients with restricted mobility.
Private Practice – A referral is not required when you visit a private podiatrist. Each private practice will set individual fees and charges.
Clients with Extra’s private health cover are encouraged to contact their health fund prior to their podiatry appointment to determine what percentage of the treatment will be covered. Some practices have online health fund claims facility such as HICAPS.
Public Facilities - Many hospitals and community health centres in Tasmania provide podiatry services. A referral from your GP, nurse or allied health professional is required to access these clinics. Priority is given to those clients who are deemed to be at high risk of developing foot complications. For further information visit www.dhhs.tas.gov.au
Medicare Allied Health Services
The Medicare Allied Health Initiative allows patients under a GP directed Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM) to gain access to Medicare rebates.
The scheme allows for up to five visits per year to an Allied Heath provider such as a private Podiatrist. The client may be required to pay the full appointment fee at the time of their appointment and claim back the rebate from Medicare. Alternatively, a gap fee that covers the difference between the Medicare rebate and the private practitioners set fee may be charged at the time of the appointment.
For further information please speak with your GP or visit the Medicare website http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au
Podiatrist Training
To become a podiatrist a Bachelor of Podiatry must be completed and registration obtained through the Podiatry Board of Australia.
The following universities provide podiatry courses:
- Charles Sturt University
- La Trobe University
- Queensland University of Technology
- University of Newcastle
- University of Western Australia
- University of Western Sydney
Podiatrists may choose to further develop their expertise by completing Post-Graduate studies such at a Graduate Diploma, Masters and PhD.
Podiatry Registration
Podiatrists are registered professionals with the Podiatry Board of Australia. From 1 July 2010 podiatrists across Australia will have to meet the same requirements to be registered and their registration will be recognised in all States and Territories.
Under this registration standard, registered podiatrists must hold or be covered by professional indemnity insurance.
Continuing Education
It is a requirement that all practising podiatrists must complete at least 20 hours of continuing professional development per year and hold a current hold cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate that includes management of anaphylaxis and use of an Automated External Defibrillator.