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When you need a referral, and when you don't
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
No. You don't need a referral to book a private podiatry appointment, and you can claim on private health extras without one. A referral matters only if you want a funded scheme to pay: a GP care plan for a Medicare rebate, DVA, workers compensation, CTP or NDIS each have their own rules.
No. You don't need a referral to book a private podiatry appointment, and you can claim on private health extras without one.
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A referral matters only if you want a funded scheme to pay: a GP care plan for a Medicare rebate, DVA, workers compensation, CTP or NDIS each have their own rules.
When you need a referral or approval
- Private appointment: no referral needed
- Private health extras: no referral needed; we claim on the spot with HICAPS if your cover includes podiatry
- Medicare: a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan referral. Medicare pays $63.40 back per eligible visit, for up to 5 allied-health visits a calendar year, shared across providers
- DVA: a GP referral on the DVA referral form (D0904)
- Workers compensation or CTP Green Slip: approval from the insurer before treatment
- NDIS: for self-managed or plan-managed participants; we're not a registered NDIS provider
Before you book
- Using a care plan? Check with your GP that podiatry is included and how many visits are left
- Bring the referral and your Medicare card to your first visit
- Not sure which applies? Call us on (02) 9701 0477 and we'll help you work it out
I have an older care plan. Does it still work?
GP Management Plan and Team Care Arrangement referrals written before 1 July 2025 can still be used until 30 June 2027, if you have visits remaining.
How we can help at Burwood Podiatry
Whatever brings you in, you can book directly. We help with:
- Pain: heel pain, Achilles, ball of foot and sports injuries
- Nails and skin: ingrown toenails, corns and calluses, general podiatry
- Diabetes: diabetic foot checks, with Medicare care plans accepted
- Children: children's feet
- Treatments: orthotics, strength and rehab, nail surgery, shockwave. All foot problems · All treatments
Emergency, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale or blue? Call 000.
Referral questions
Can I see a podiatrist without seeing a GP first?
Yes. Book directly for a private appointment. See a GP first only if you want to use a care plan, or if you need urgent medical care.
Does Medicare cover podiatry without a referral?
No. Medicare rebates for podiatry need an eligible GP care-plan referral.
How much is a private podiatry appointment?
A 30-minute appointment is $112 with Jasem, or $162 with Jonathan ($179 on Saturdays). Care-plan fees are listed on our fees page.
Where to next
Sources
Reviewed by Burwood Podiatry · November 2026