Step 2 Restrictions & Podiatry
We are still open !
Melbourne Podiatrists & Orthotics remain open during Step 2 restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne, however some restrictions in services still remain.
DHHS guidelines for podiatrists during Step 2 of the Roadmap
With the easing of stage 4 restrictions Allied Health practitioners, including podiatrists, can now provide a broader range of face to face services.
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) states that podiatrists can provide services to:
• prevent a significant change/deterioration in functional independence which would result in an escalation of care needs (e.g. an increase in frequency of treatment needed, an increased need for prescription medication due to a significant increase in pain, requirement for specialist input or review, an increase in care needs, and/or a substantial increase to anticipated recovery time associated with a delay in receiving services).
• provide assessment and diagnostic services to clients/patients whose care has been delayed as a result of Stage 4 restrictions, with any further delay likely to result in deterioration in functional independence or adverse health outcomes (including access to diagnostic imaging services or assessment for prescription of assistive equipment and technology) .
• provide services that are essential as part of a broader plan of care with a medical practitioner (e.g. fitting a brace post-surgery).
• provide services that are part of a conservative management plan to avoid or delay elective surgery (as agreed with treating team).
• provide services immediately following elective surgery that prevent secondary complications or aid functional recovery (as agreed with treating team).
In more simple terms
In other words our podiatrists can provide care if the absence of, or delay of this care, causes a significant deterioration in the person’s ability to carry out daily activities, resulting in an escalation of care such as – an increase in frequency of treatment, an increase in care needs (physical or mental) and/or a substantial increase to anticipated recovery time.
Common patient questions during Step 2 restrictions
Should I come in or reschedule my appointment during Step 2 restrictions?
We would strongly advise you to make an appointment if your issue is:
- causing you pain or
- affecting your mental health or
- likely to get worse if not treated
Remember DHHS recommendation is do not put off health care.
If you are not suffering any symptoms and feel your issue is non-urgent then you should strongly consider rescheduling or postponing your appointment until after Step 2 restrictions are eased, which is likely on the 19th October 2020.
Do I need a GP referral?
You do not require a GP referral to access podiatry services under Step 2 restrictions but you must meet the above criteria.
I am unsure if my podiatry appointment is essential or non-essential?
If you are unsure please contact the clinic on (03) 9882 5584. We can send you a questionnaire via SMS to help you determine if your appointment meets the criteria. Alternatively one of our podiatrists will call you back to discuss your case in more detail.
Are there any other treatment options for non-essential treatment?
If you require non-essential treatment advice you could consider a telehealth appointment. Telehealth is an online video podiatry consultation and can be great for still treating a number of foot conditions that don’t require a “hands on” approach. It is also fantastic when seeking a second opinion.
For more information please visit our telehealth page.
Important – Coronavirus Policy
To be eligible for a face-to-face podiatry consultation all patients must still meet the strict terms of our coronavirus patient policy.
Do you still need foot care?
Melbourne Podiatrists & Orthotics remain open during Step 2 restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne.
So if you still require foot care meeting the DHHS guidelines book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!