Podiatry

The Eastern Health Hospital Admissions Risk Program (HARP) Podiatry service accepts referrals for high-risk foot patients with deep and/or infected foot ulcers. We offer rapid triage and appointment within 48 hours of referral and access to ED diversion for diabetic foot wounds.

There is a medical consultant available so an appropriate antibiotic plan can be commenced, and any imaging, pathology or referral on to relevant specialist clinics can be completed if required.

This service is for patients who would otherwise be sent to the emergency department. Patients being referred to this service should be medically stable. Patients who are acutely unwell or have systemic symptoms should be directed to attend the emergency department.

Referrals can be made by completing this form HARP Triage Form (PDF,191KB) and emailing it to [email protected] and [email protected] .

This is a centre-based program. If this is not convenient for you, we can discuss alternative community options with you.

You should wear shoes that you regularly wear as it is important for the podiatrist to be able to review these shoes. It would also be helpful to bring in some of your other shoes so that an accurate assessment of your current footwear can be made.

Please bring a list of your current medications including the dosage level. If you have diabetes, bring your blood glucose levels diary.

As the podiatrist will need to see you barefooted it is a good idea to wear socks or half length stockings that are easy to remove.

If you currently wear orthotics or have worn them in the past, it would be helpful to bring them to your appointment.

No, the EPC program is for private podiatry, however information on the program is given to eligible patients.

The cost will vary depending upon the service provided and your income status and will usually be between $0 and $15.

For most sites, yes. To determine if you are eligible to attend podiatry at Eastern Health please contact your preferred site for details.

• Adult Referral form (PDF 185KB)
• Referral form appendix (PDF 626KB)

You will be seen by a qualified podiatrist who will conduct an assessment, and devise a treatment plan suited to your needs.

Eastern Health provides placements for podiatry students who, with consent, may be involved in some consultations.

Due to the nature of the treatment, sharp instruments are sometimes used so there is a small risk of harm occurring.

Many patients experience a reduction in pain due to podiatry intervention but some treatments may cause discomfort at the time.