Frequently Asked Questions

What would you like to know?

What is a podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of the foot, ankle and leg. A podiatrist does treat children, but is not a paediatrician — it's confusing, we know!

A podiatrist helps people of all ages to overcome and prevent a wide range of foot and leg problems. Some problems start in the feet while others stem from chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and vascular disease.

A podiatrist is the most qualified doctor to assess, diagnose and treat your lower leg, ankle and foot problems. A podiatrist is the only allied health professional to spend at least 4 years studying the lower limbs and feet!

What does a podiatrist do?
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No — you don't need a referral to see a podiatrist at Fairfield Podiatry. Win!

If your doctor has given you a Medicare Chronic Disease Management (formerly Enhanced Primary Care) referral, bring it along to your initial consultation at Fairfield Podiatry. Only your doctor can determine if you are eligible.

If you have a Department of Veterans' Affairs Gold or White card, bring it along to your initial consultation at Fairfield Podiatry.

Do I need to arrive early for my initial consultation?

Please arrive at Fairfield Podiatry 5 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete some paperwork. This helps our podiatrists to maximise their time with you.

What do I need to bring to my initial consultation?

Please bring along any scans and reports that are relevant to your problem (e.g. x-ray, ultrasound or MRI) and the shoes you wear most of the time.

It's also best to wear comfortable clothing so that your podiatrist can assess how you walk or run, if required.

What will happen during my initial consultation?

During your first consultation at Fairfield Podiatry you'll be greeted by one of our friendly customer service specialists who will give you some paperwork to fill out in our comfortable waiting room. Before long your podiatrist will take you to a spacious, private consulting room to chat — with genuine interest and care — about how you're going.

To make an accurate diagnosis, your podiatrist will ask some questions about your current problem and medical history, as well as do some assessments. You're welcome to ask plenty of questions along the way. Don't be shy!

If possible, your podiatrist will treat your problem on the spot. If not, your podiatrist will explain what needs to be done for you to overcome your problem and will explain the process for a follow-up appointment. Your podiatrist will then walk you out to the reception desk where you'll book your follow-up appointment and pay.

One thing is for sure: you'll walk out of the clinic feeling more comfortable and like you're well on your way to recovery. Perhaps you'll wish you had come to Fairfield Podiatry sooner?

Am I able to submit a claim to my health fund on the spot?

Yes — we can use our HICAPS terminal to submit a claim to your health fund on the spot. If your claim is approved, you only need to pay the gap amount (total amount minus the amount your health fund covers). It's super easy!

Is there on-site parking at Fairfield Podiatry?

Yes — there is plenty of on-site parking at Fairfield Podiatry, which can be accessed via Mitchell St. There is also lots of free parking on Mitchell St.

Can I use public transport to get to Fairfield Podiatry?

Yes — we are only an 8-minute walk from Fairfield Train Station on the Hurstbridge Line and Fairfield Village. And the Mitchell Street bus stop, which is on Route 567 and 609, is located directly opposite the clinic on Station Street.

Can I access Fairfield Podiatry in a wheelchair or on crutches?

People in wheelchairs or on crutches can easily enter Fairfield Podiatry using the ramp and double doors at the front of the clinic.

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