Want to know whether podiatry is covered by Medicare in Australia? Learn what is covered, who qualifies, and how AHP Podiatry can help you get the expert care you need.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is podiatry covered by Medicare?” you’re not alone. Many people are unsure about what Medicare includes when it comes to foot care, and navigating this can be confusing.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about Medicare and its coverage in podiatry services.
Let’s get started!
What Is Medicare and How Does It Relate to Podiatry?
Medicare is federal health insurance for anyone age 65 and older, and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions. It plays an essential role in ensuring that elders receive access to healthcare, including allied health services such as podiatry.
But here is the catch: not all podiatry services are covered automatically under Medicare. In its place, often, the coverage is left to specific plans such as the Chronic Disease Management plan or the Enhanced Primary Care plan, which require a referral from your general practitioner.
By learning how Medicare works in relation to podiatry, you will be able to receive the treatment you need without having to break the bank.
What foot care services will Medicare cover?
So, what can you really expect from Medicare podiatry coverage? Here’s a deeper look at the types of services Medicare may help with:
Does Medicare pay for diabetic foot care?
If you have diabetes, it’s extremely important to take good care of your feet. With diabetes, there is a risk for poor circulation and nerve damage, which may lead to serious foot complications. Podiatry visits for diabetic foot care are commonly covered by Medicare under a CDM plan. These services include routine check-ups, care for your nails, and the treatment of ulcers or infections.
Does Medicare cover podiatry for foot pain?
Battling plantar fasciitis or chronic pain in the feet? Medicare covers visits to evaluate and treat such conditions if they are part of your treatment plan. This may include custom orthotics, exercises, or other therapies prescribed by your podiatrist.
Does Medicare pay for diabetic foot care?
Other routine care, such as nail clipping and callus removal, is not usually covered unless medically necessary. If, however, you require routine care as part of managing a chronic condition, you may be qualified for Medicare assistance.
Medicare coverage is always different depending on your individual needs and conditions. You would always want to check with both your GP and your podiatrist about what is covered and what is not.
Eligibility for Medicare Podiatry Coverage
Not everyone is eligible for Medicare podiatry coverage, so it’s essential to understand how the eligibility criteria work. Here’s how it works:
Enhanced Primary Care and Chronic Disease Management Plans
Medicare covers podiatry under the EPC or CDM plan. These plans cater for patients with chronic health conditions needing coordinated care. For example, if you are suffering from diabetes, arthritis, or cardiovascular disease your GP may plan a CDM and refer you to a podiatrist.
Children’s Podiatry and Medicare
Parents commonly ask, “Will Medicare cover the children’s podiatry?” In all cases, it doesn’t unless related to a chronic condition and forming part of an implemented CDM plan. If uncertain, it’s best to see your GP about eligibility of referral for your child.
What to Expect from a Referral
Your GP will also assess your condition and provide you with up to five subsidised visits to an allied health professional in any calendar year–including podiatrists. This is a shared total, so if you see more than one specialist, you will need to plan your visits accordingly.
How AHP Podiatry Can Help
Here at AHP Podiatry, we want to make sure that you get the care you require.
Whether you need diabetic foot care treatment, pain management, or any other specialty service, we have got you covered.
Our team provides quality care customized to your unique needs and offers professional advice on how to maximize your Medicare benefits.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your foot health needs under Medicare.
Take the first step toward better foot health!
