People in Rosebud who need help with foot care and walking can access podiatry services and mobility support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). These supports help maintain mobility, reduce pain and prevent complications. The following guide explains who can use them, what is covered, how funding works and how to get started.
What Podiatry Services and Mobility Support Are
Podiatry Services
Podiatry services under the NDIS include assessment, treatment, footwear advice and ongoing foot care for people with chronic conditions, amputations or mobility issues. They aim to keep feet healthy, reduce pain and improve walking ability.
Mobility Support
Mobility support helps people move safely around their home or community. It can involve the use of walking frames, wheelchairs, or personal assistance with transfers and ambulation. The support is tailored to each participant’s goals and daily routine.
Eligibility and Access Rules
Who Can Access These Supports
Participants must be registered with the NDIS and have a plan that lists podiatry or mobility support as a reasonable and necessary activity. The service must be part of the participant’s evidence of need, showing how it contributes to their goals.
Accessing the Support
To access podiatry services, a participant needs a referral from a qualified podiatrist who is registered with the NDIS. Mobility support can be provided by a registered NDIS service provider or a support worker approved by the participant’s plan.
Exclusions
Services that are purely cosmetic or not linked to a medical condition are excluded. Podiatry for routine shoe fitting without a medical indication is generally not funded unless it is part of a broader treatment plan.
What Is Included and What Is Not
Included in Podiatry Services
Assessment visits, prescribed footwear, custom orthotics, treatment of ulcers or infections, and education on foot care. Follow‑up appointments are also covered if they are part of the treatment plan.
Included in Mobility Support
Assistance with transfers, use of walking frames or wheelchairs, and training on safe mobility techniques. The support can be delivered in the home or in community settings.
What Is Not Included
General fitness or exercise sessions that are not prescribed by a podiatrist. Purchase of new footwear or orthotics outside the approved plan budget is not covered. Non‑NDIS approved providers’ services are excluded.
Funding and Planning Considerations
Funding Limits
Funding is based on the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. The amount for podiatry and mobility support is capped per service type and per hour. Participants should check their plan for the specific limits.
Plan Budget Allocation
Participants must allocate funds for podiatry and mobility support within their core or capacity building budget. It is common to set a separate line item for podiatry if it is a major part of the participant’s goals.
Review and Adjustments
Funding can be reviewed annually or sooner if circumstances change. A change request must be submitted to the NDIS with updated medical evidence or goal updates.
How to Request and Activate Support
Step 1: Identify a Registered Provider
Search the NDIS provider register for podiatrists and mobility support providers in Rosebud or nearby areas like Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico.
Step 2: Obtain a Referral
For podiatry, a medical referral is required. The participant should bring this to the provider’s office when booking the first appointment.
Step 3: Book the Service
Contact the provider directly or use an NDIS-approved booking platform. Provide your NDIS number and plan details to confirm funding coverage.
Step 4: Confirm Funding
Ask the provider to submit a service claim to the NDIS. Once approved, the participant will receive a payment notification.
Step 5: Review and Adjust
After each service period, review the outcomes with the podiatrist or mobility support worker and adjust the plan if necessary.
Local Context in Rosebud and Nearby Areas
In Rosebud, several local providers offer podiatry and mobility support that are NDIS‑registered. Residents can also find services in adjacent suburbs such as Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico, ensuring a range of options for different needs and budgets.
For example, a participant might choose a podiatrist based in Rosebud for convenience, while using a mobility support worker from Chelsea for community outings. The proximity of these suburbs makes coordination easier for families and support coordinators.
Many local providers collaborate with community health services, providing integrated care that covers both foot health and mobility training. This holistic approach is encouraged by the NDIS to maximise participant independence.
FAQs
What types of foot conditions are covered by NDIS podiatry services?
Conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, severe arthritis, post‑amputation care and chronic pain that affect mobility are covered if they are part of the participant’s evidence of need.
Can I use a private podiatrist who is not NDIS registered?
No. Only services from NDIS‑registered providers are eligible for funding. Participants can still seek private care but would need to pay out of pocket.
Is mobility support available for community outings?
Yes. Mobility support can be arranged for community outings, shopping trips or medical appointments, provided it is included in the participant’s plan.
How often can I receive podiatry appointments under the NDIS?
Frequency is determined by the podiatrist and the plan. Typically, it ranges from weekly to monthly visits, depending on the severity of the condition.
What happens if I need additional mobility equipment that exceeds the plan limit?
Participants can request a change in plan funding. The NDIS will review the request based on medical evidence and the participant’s goals.
For more information on NDIS home care supports in Rosebud, see NDIS home care supports in Rosebud. To explore how podiatry and mobility support integrate with other services, visit NDIS home care support services in Rosebud. For a broader view of NDIS services in Victoria, read NDIS home care supports in Victoria.
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.