Medicare Podiatry Funding
The Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, formerly known as Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, is an Australian Government initiative designed to provide subsidised health services for patients with chronic medical conditions. A chronic condition is defined as one that has persisted for six months or longer, such as diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease. Under the CDM plan, eligible patients can access Medicare rebates for a range of allied health services, including podiatry.
Eligibility for Podiatry Medicare CDM Plan
To be eligible for the CDM plan, patients must:
- Have a chronic medical condition that requires ongoing management.
- Be referred by their General Practitioner (GP) who will prepare a CDM plan outlining the necessary allied health services.
The GP must determine that the patient would benefit from coordinated and interdisciplinary care.
Services Covered by the Medicare CDM Plan
Under the CDM plan, eligible patients can receive Medicare rebates for up to five allied health services per calendar year. Podiatry services covered by the CDM plan include:
- Initial Consultation and Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of foot health to identify issues related to the chronic condition.
- Routine Foot Care: Management of conditions such as corns, calluses, and toenail issues.
- Diabetic Foot Care: Expert care to prevent and manage complications associated with diabetes.
- Pain Management: Treatments for foot pain related to chronic conditions like arthritis using advanced technology such as shockwave therapy.
- Custom Orthotics: Prescription and fitting of orthotic devices to support foot function and alleviate discomfort.
- Preventive Care: Strategies to prevent further complications and maintain optimal foot health.
How to Access CDM-funded Podiatry Services
Accessing podiatry services through the CDM plan involves several steps:
- Visit Your GP: Schedule an appointment with your GP to discuss your chronic condition and the need for podiatry care.
- Develop a CDM Plan: If eligible, your GP will prepare a CDM plan and refer you to a podiatrist.
- Book an Appointment: Contact the clinic to schedule your initial consultation and inform them that you have a CDM plan.
- Receive Care: Attend your appointments and receive the podiatry care outlined in your CDM plan.
It is important to note that the CDM plan covers part of the cost of the podiatry services. The gap fee, or the difference between the Medicare rebate and the podiatrist’s fee, must be covered by the patient.
For more information about accessing podiatry services through the Medicare Chronic Disease Management plan or to book an appointment, call our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588.
Our Podiatrists
Our team of Sunshine Coast Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, warts and more.
They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes.
Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.
Benefits of a personalised treatment plan
Reduced Pain
Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.
Increased Strength
With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.
Become More Active
Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.
How it works
1. Schedule an Appointment
Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.
2. We Handle the Details
Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.
3. Be More Active With Less Pain
Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.
What you'll get...
Experienced Podiatrists
Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.
Comprehensive Consultations
Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.
Communication
Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.
Best Treatment Technology
We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care.
On-site Manufacturing
Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.