When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Foot discomfort is common, but many people are unsure when it becomes…
Many people considering podiatry ask whether appointments are covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
If you are searching for podiatry Bankstown or podiatry Lakemba and want to understand potential rebates, this guide explains how coverage typically works in Australia.
At Masnad Health Clinic, we aim to provide clear, transparent information so patients can make informed decisions.

In Australia, podiatry is not automatically covered under standard Medicare.
However, Medicare may provide rebates under specific programs.
The most common pathway is through a Chronic Disease Management Plan, sometimes referred to as a GP Management Plan.
Under this arrangement:
The number of sessions and rebate amount are determined by Medicare guidelines.
For a broader understanding of podiatry services, you may also find helpful insights in:
→ What Is Podiatry and How Can It Help with Foot and Ankle Pain?
A Chronic Disease Management Plan is designed for individuals living with ongoing medical conditions.
Eligibility is assessed by your GP.
If eligible, the GP may refer you to allied health services, including podiatry, for a limited number of subsidised visits per calendar year.
It is important to note:
For individuals living with diabetes or other chronic conditions affecting foot health, structured monitoring may be recommended.
If your concern relates to persistent discomfort, you may also find useful information in:
→ Foot Pain Explained: Causes, Assessment and Treatment
Many private health funds in Australia provide rebates for podiatry under extras cover.
Coverage depends on:
Private health rebates vary between funds.
We recommend:
Our team can assist with on-the-spot claiming where applicable.

Individuals living with diabetes may be eligible for Medicare-supported podiatry under a Chronic Disease Management Plan if referred by a GP.
Regular foot monitoring may be recommended to:
You can read more about structured diabetic foot care in:
→ Diabetic Foot Care: Why Regular Checks Matter
Out-of-pocket costs vary depending on:
Medicare rebates typically cover part of the consultation fee rather than the full cost.
Private health rebates vary by policy and fund.
If you are unsure, our reception team can guide you before booking.
Residents of Bankstown, Lakemba, Punchbowl, Greenacre, Yagoona and Chullora benefit from access to podiatry services within a multidisciplinary clinic setting.
If you are searching for podiatry Bankstown and have questions about rebates, we encourage you to contact our team for clarification.
You are welcome to book online or request a courtesy call to discuss eligibility and appointment options.
Generally, you cannot claim both a Medicare benefit and a private health insurance benefit for the same podiatry service. Which claiming option applies will depend on your eligibility and circumstances.
No. You can generally book a podiatry appointment privately without a GP referral. A referral is required if you are seeking a Medicare rebate through an eligible GP care plan.
Not necessarily. A Medicare rebate may contribute towards the consultation cost, but there may still be an out-of-pocket gap depending on the clinic’s fee and the applicable Medicare benefit.
Once your eligible subsidised allied health services have been used, further appointments generally won’t attract a Medicare rebate under that referral arrangement. You may still be able to continue privately or use eligible private health extras cover.
Yes. For private health insurance, contact your health fund to confirm whether podiatry is included in your extras cover, your remaining annual limits and the expected benefit. For Medicare eligibility, your GP can advise whether you meet the requirements for an eligible care plan.
Not sure if you need to see a podiatrist?
Speak with one of our podiatrists about your foot or ankle concerns, whether it’s heel pain, ingrown toenails, sports injuries, diabetes-related foot care, or ongoing discomfort. We’ll answer your questions and help you decide on the best next step. If you’re a new client, you’ll also receive 10% off your first appointment.