When it comes to foot health, podiatrists are the experts, providing specialised care for a variety of foot and ankle issues. If you’re in Adelaide and wondering whether you need a referral to see a podiatrist, you’ve come to the right place.
At AC Podiatry, we’re committed to providing patient-centered care and making our services as accessible as possible. Let’s explore how you can access our podiatry services and why choosing AC Podiatry can make a significant difference in your foot health journey.
Our Philosophy: Putting Patients First
At AC Podiatry, our philosophy is simple yet profound: the patient comes first. We believe in patient-centered care, where you have the right to be involved in your treatment and make well-informed decisions. Our approach is collaborative rather than paternalistic, as we find that working together with our patients leads to more positive outcomes and a more rewarding experience for everyone involved.
This philosophy extends to every aspect of our practice. From the moment you step into one of our modern and contemporary clinics, you’ll experience a warm and welcoming environment designed with your comfort in mind. We understand that for many people, healthcare is a very personal matter, and we respect your privacy as paramount.
Do You Need a Referral?
The good news is that in most cases, you do not need a referral to see a podiatrist at AC Podiatry. As primary healthcare providers, we welcome patients to contact us directly to book an appointment at any of our convenient locations across Adelaide and the Eastern suburbs.
This direct access means you can take immediate action when you’re experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, without the need to wait for a GP appointment first. It’s part of our commitment to providing hassle-free, efficient care to our community.
Situations Where a Referral Can Be Beneficial
While a referral isn’t usually necessary, there are some situations where having one can be advantageous:
Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Plans
If you have a chronic medical condition requiring ongoing podiatric care, your GP might include podiatry services in an EPC plan. This allows Medicare to cover some of your podiatry costs, but you’ll need a GP referral to access this benefit. At AC Podiatry, we’re experienced in working with EPC plans and can guide you through the process.
Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)
DVA patients do need an initial doctor’s referral. Once this is in place, your referral will remain valid for 12 months or 12 visits (whichever ends first). We’re proud to serve our veterans and can assist with navigating DVA requirements.
WorkCover Claims
If you’ve suffered a work-related foot or ankle injury, a referral can help incorporate podiatry care into your WorkCover claim. Our occupational podiatry services are designed to get you back on your feet and back to work safely.
Complex Medical Conditions
not strictly necessary, a referral from your GP can be helpful if you have a complex medical condition that affects your feet. This allows us to collaborate more effectively with your other healthcare providers, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your care.
Private Health Insurance and AC Podiatry
If you have private health insurance with extras cover for podiatry, you can claim benefits for our services without a referral. Our Adelaide CBD, Modbury and Oakden clinics are also Bupa Members First providers, which may offer additional benefits for Bupa members. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for podiatry services.
Comprehensive Services at AC Podiatry
At AC Podiatry, we offer a wide range of services to address various foot and ankle conditions. Our comprehensive approach ensures that we can provide the right treatment for your specific needs. Our services include:
- Gait Analysis: Using advanced technology to assess how you walk or run, identifying any issues that may be causing pain or discomfort.
- Foot Mobilisation: A hands-on technique to improve joint mobility and function in the feet and ankles.
- Dry Needling: A therapeutic technique that can help relieve muscle pain and improve function.
- Orthotic Therapy: Custom-made shoe inserts designed to correct biomechanical foot issues and relieve pain.
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (E.S.W.T): An advanced treatment for chronic soft tissue injuries.
- SWIFT Wart Treatment: A cutting-edge, microwave therapy for the treatment of plantar warts.
- Onyfix: An innovative solution for ingrown toenails and nail reconstruction.
- Nail Surgery: For more severe cases of ingrown toenails or other nail conditions.
- Occupational Podiatry: Specialised care for work-related foot and ankle issues.
- Biomechanical Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your lower limb function to identify and treat the root cause of pain or discomfort.
Our multi-disciplinary approach means we can work with other healthcare professionals to address your foot or leg problems comprehensively. We have a strong referral network, allowing us to collaborate with specialists when needed to ensure you receive the best possible care.
The AC Podiatry Difference: Gold Standard Treatment
At AC Podiatry, we’re committed to providing gold standard treatment with a total approach to your foot care. This means:
- Expertise: Our team of skilled podiatrists stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in podiatric care.
- Technology: We invest in state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
- Personalised Care: We take the time to understand your unique needs and develop a tailored treatment plan.
- Education: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their foot health, providing valuable advice on foot care and prevention.
- Convenience and Accessibility: We understand that life can be busy, which is why we’ve made accessing our services as convenient as possible. With multiple locations across Adelaide, including Adelaide CBD, Magill, Malvern, Modbury, and Oakden, we offer flexibility in scheduling and location choice.
Book Your Appointment Today
Whether you have a referral or not, we’re here to help with your foot health needs. You can easily book an appointment online through our website or call us at (08) 8255-5575. Our friendly team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable time and location.
Remember, your foot health is crucial to your overall well-being. Don’t let foot problems hold you back – reach out to AC Podiatry today and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet!
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