Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist?
Answer: In Ontario, both chiropodists and podiatrists are primary regulated foot health professionals registered with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. They share a similar scope of practice, including comprehensive foot and ankle assessments, custom orthotics, minor soft-tissue surgeries, nail/skin care, and prescriptions. The primary difference is their training location: chiropodists are educated and trained in Ontario (such as at The Michener Institute), while older-generation podiatrists were educated outside of Canada. Chiropodists represent the vast majority of foot care specialists in the province.
2. Do I need a doctor’s referral to book an appointment?
Answer: No, a physician’s referral is not required to book an initial assessment or any other service at the clinic. However, some private extended health insurance plans may require a doctor’s note or prescription to reimburse specific services like custom orthotics or compression stockings, so it is always wise to check your specific policy.
3. Are chiropody services and custom orthotics covered under OHIP?
Answer: No, chiropody services and custom foot orthotics are not eligible for coverage under OHIP. However, most private extended health care plans have provisions covering chiropody, custom orthotics, orthopedic shoes, and compression stockings.
4. What should I expect during my initial consultation?
Answer: Your first visit begins with a review of your medical history, office policies, and consent forms. The chiropodist will then conduct a thorough physical examination of your feet and lower limbs, which includes a gait and biomechanical analysis. Afterward, they will discuss a personalized treatment plan with you and often provide initial care or relief during that same appointment.
5. How much do custom orthotics cost, and what does it include?
Answer: Custom foot orthotics at the clinic are $575. This inclusive fee covers your comprehensive casting appointment (using 3D laser scanning or plaster of Paris), one pair of custom-built orthotics, your fitting session, and follow-up adjustments.
6. Can you bill my insurance company directly?
Answer: Only certain insurance plans permit direct billing for chiropody services and orthopedic appliances. The clinic currently offers direct billing to GreenShield, Canada Life, and Manulife Financial. For all other insurance providers, full payment is required at the time of your visit, and the clinic will provide the itemized documentation/receipts for you to submit to your insurer online or by mail.
7. When should I schedule a visit to see a chiropodist?
Answer: You should book an assessment if you experience foot or ankle pain that lasts for more than a few weeks, if pain interferes with your normal walking or daily activities, or if you notice changes in your foot structure. Individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation, or high-risk foot conditions should also see a chiropodist regularly for preventative care.
8. What kind of footwear should I bring to my appointment?
Answer: You should wear or bring the shoes you wear most frequently for daily activities, work, or exercise. Evaluating your everyday footwear and observing how the tread wears down gives your chiropodist valuable insight into your personal biomechanics and gait.
9. How long do custom orthotics take to be made and how long do they last?
Answer: Once assessed and casted, custom orthotics are typically ready for a fitting within 10 to 14 business days (rush orders are available for an extra fee). With proper care, most custom orthotics last between 2 to 5 years, depending on your activity level and usage.
10. Is there free parking available at the clinic?
Answer: Yes, complimentary on-site parking is available for all patients at their location (5 Swan Lake Blvd, Markham). Patients are advised to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early, as the parking lot can occasionally be busy.
11. What payment methods does your clinic accept?
Answer: Payment can be made with VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Debit, Cash or interac e-transfer. WE DO NOT ACCEPT CHEQUE PAYMENTS.
