Virtual Podiatry FAQ

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Frequently asked questions

What is a virtual podiatry consultation?

Can’t make it into either of our locations?  Time poor?  Too far to travel?  Stay at home mum/dad and can’t bear taking the kids to a waiting room? Want expert advice from the best but are too far away?  Not sure you even need a podiatrist?

Modern technology enables us to communicate with each other in an efficient way and much of what we need to do in a clinical consultation can be done over the internet using Coviu for telehealth.

A consultation is conducted between you (or a dependent and you) and your podiatrist using the internet to connect with each other from different locations.  This is called a virtual podiatry consultation or an online podiatry consultation.

What sort of problems are suitable for an on-line video consultation?

There are many conditions and problems that can be assessed during an on-line consultation and this includes:

  • Rehabilitation of injuries
  • Prehabilitation (preparation for using weakened muscles)
  • Improved running technique
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Verrucae (commonly known as warts)
  • Deformities such as bunions (Hallux Valgus), hammertoes, flat feet etc.
  • Many painful conditions such as tendonopathies
  • Wound management
  • Some gait abnormalities

If you are unsure of what else we do then check out our Services page!  When we contact you to make the appointment we will make sure that we are able to deal with your problem using the E-Consult consultation process.

How do I get an appointment?

Book an E-Consult consultation with one of our podiatrists over telehealth. Using your computer or mobile device.

  1. Start your on-line consultation by clicking the “Book an E-Consult” button and fill out your details so we can contact you.
  2. We’ll contact you  soon to find out what sort of help you need and arrange a time and appointment length.
  3. If needed send us a video by simply sending a text or Facebook message.
  4. Book you appointment.
  5. If you are a new patient or have a new problem we will send you a diagnostic survey to fill out prior to the appointment.  This ensures that the podiatrist has all the information needed to help you during the consultation.  It will reduce the time needed for the appointment as your podiatrist will not need to ask you many questions.
  6. Your appointment will take place at the agreed time.  Simple as that!

For the appointment you will receive an email from your Podiatrist  inviting you to join the call via a meeting Link. It is best to join the meeting on a mobile  or laptop device or have a movable webcam as you may be asked to move around during the consultation.

What are the advantages of an online consultation?

  • Access to specialist care especially for remote communities who have no local option
  • Reduced waiting time to see your podiatrist
  • Reduced travel time and costs
  • Reduced time off work

What do I need to do to get ready for the online podiatry consultation?

You can prepare for your online podiatry consultation by following these simple steps:

  • Ensure that you have completed the diagnostic survey that is sent to you.
  • Open the email from your Podiatrist and follow the steps to Join the meeting  at least 5 minutes prior to the appointment.
  • Preferably wear shorts or tights  that will allow the podiatrist to see your feet up to your hips.
  • Preferably join the meeting on a mobile device as you may be required to move around during the consultation.
  • Please reduce any nearby noise. Turn off music and phones.

What happens during the consultation?

  • Speak clearly into the computer microphone so that the podiatrist can hear you clearly.
  • Feel free to ask any questions you have during the consultation.
  • Look at the camera so the podiatrist can see you clearly.
  • At the start of the consultation your podiatrist will introduce themselves and ask some clarifying questions such as name and date of birth to make sure that you are the right person and that they are looking at the right health record/diagnostic. The podiatrist will then conduct the consultation in the same way as if you were in the same room.
  • At the completion of the consultation you will be asked to pay for the consultation via our online payment platform.

Where do I have to be for the online consultation?

You can participate in the virtual consultation from any location that is convenient to you but should have good internet access.

Do I have to have an online consultation?

If you would prefer you are able to attend our practice in Toowoomba.  A virtual consultation is an option for you to consider depending on the nature of your problem and access to an internet connection.

How much will it cost?

Our normal billing process applies and fees are charged based on the consultation type.  Rebates from your private health care may be available depending on the type of policy you have.

If there are any other fees associated with your consultation you will be advised of them at the time by your podiatrist.  For example if are going to post you any dressings or creams.

Will my private health insurance pay for my online consultation?

Yes, in Australia private health will pay as per normal as long as you have podiatry cover as part of your policy.  We suggest that you check with your health fund prior to booking to assess your cover.  At the conclusion of your consultation we will issue you with a receipt and you can then make your claim to them.

Will Medicare pay for my online consultation?

During the COVID 19 Pandemic medicare is available for tele-health consultation if you have an existing Chronic disease management plan.

Medicare will not pay for an online consultation at this time.  Medicare will only pay for a face to face consultation.  You can however still pay for your virtual podiatry consultation privately.

What if I have to cancel the appointment?

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please let us know immediately.  We have a practice policy that if you do not provide 24 hours’ notice of the cancellation then you will be liable for the full fee.  Refunds will however be given if we are able to fill the appointment with another patient.  This also applies if you do not sign in for the appointment.

How is my right to privacy affected?

Your privacy will be protected in the same way a face-to-face consultation.  The laws in Australia are very specific about the confidentiality of patients and their records.  Podiatry Point strictly adheres to these laws.

No one else will be present during your consultation without your knowledge.  If you wish you can have another family member or friend present during the consultation.

What if I need to be examined?

A certain amount of examination can occur remotely and you will be advised accordingly.  The initial phone call that you have with a staff member will determine if we are able to provide you with online care based on what you describe as your problem. If however you do require a direct examination then a clinical appointment may need to be scheduled.  If you are not in close proximity to our practices then we will put you in touch with a qualified and reputable practitioner (podiatrist/nurse/doctor) near to you to conduct the examination and provide the results to us or provide you with ongoing care if need be.

What if I feel that I can’t continue?

It is perfectly normal to feel a bit nervous at the beginning of your first online podiatry consultation.  This is a new and different way to see a specialist however most patients will feel comfortable after a short time.  If you do feel that you are unable to continue then please tell your podiatrist.  Please be aware that the consultation fee will still apply.

I live overseas can I still have a virtual consultation?

As long as you have access to the internet you are able to participate in an online podiatry consultation.  Unfortunately we are unable to look after patients who are in the USA or Canada.

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