Podiatry questions and answers
This page answers common questions about seeing a podiatrist, including referrals, costs and what to expect at your appointment. Fiona Shepes treats every patient herself at The Fresh Foot Centre in Narre Warren and Cranbourne North.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
No referral is needed to see a podiatrist privately. You can book online at either clinic.
How much is a podiatrist appointment?
An initial consultation costs from $100, and a standard consultation costs from $90. Book online and $10 comes off the initial consultation. Full details are on the podiatry fees page.
Can I claim my appointment on my health fund?
Yes. HICAPS is on site at both clinics, so private health fund claims are processed on the day. Your rebate depends on your fund and your level of extras cover.
Can I get a Medicare rebate for podiatry?
A Medicare rebate applies only with a GP chronic condition management plan, which requires a GP referral. The Medicare benefit is $63.40 per eligible visit (item 10962), with up to 5 rebated allied health visits in a calendar year in total. You pay the clinic fee and a gap.
Can DVA and NDIS patients be treated?
DVA Gold card holders pay no out-of-pocket costs, and White card holders pay a gap for accepted conditions; DVA requires a referral. Fiona sees self-managed, plan-managed and agency-managed NDIS participants. WorkCover and TAC patients are welcome with their claim number and paperwork, and WorkCover needs a current GP referral.
How do I book an appointment?
Book online through the Cliniko booking system, or phone the Narre Warren clinic on (03) 8609 8885. Booking online takes $10 off the initial consultation.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring any imaging such as X-ray or ultrasound of your feet and ankles, plus your regular footwear. A referral from another practitioner is useful when you have one.
Do you treat children?
Fiona sees children from 4 years old. Children's podiatry covers growing feet and common childhood foot and leg complaints.
How long do orthotics last?
Custom orthotics last from 2 to 5 years depending on the type. Fiona reassesses orthotics at a minimum of 2 years, because foot shape and structure change over time.
How long does it take to get used to orthotics?
Orthotics take 2 to 3 weeks to get used to. Fiona explains how to wear them in slowly over that period,.
Do you do home visits?
Yes. Home visits are available within 10 km of either clinic, from $190, mainly for aged care, DVA and NDIS patients at home. Phone the clinic to arrange a home visit.
Which clinic should I attend?
The Narre Warren clinic at 1 Prairie Court is open Tuesday and Wednesday 10am to 4:30pm, and every second Friday 10am to 4:30pm. The Cranbourne North clinic operates inside Stirling Medical Centre, 32 Stirling Avenue, every second Friday 10am to 4:30pm, starting Friday 20 November 2026, with the same treatments and prices.
Prices and rebates are on the podiatry fees page. Clinic addresses and hours are on the contact page.