FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

WHAT IS A REGULATED FOOT SPECIALIST CALLED IN ONTARIO?
Regulated foot specialists in Ontario, are licensed of the College of Chiropodists of Ontario, and are called a Chiropodist or a Podiatrist.

 

DO I NEED A MEDICAL REFERRAL?
No, a medical referral is not needed at the Ashburnham Foot and Ankle Centre. Many patients are referred by their physician or another health care provider, but a referral is not necessary.

 

CAN THE FOOT SPECIALISTS PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?
At the Ashburnham Foot and Ankle Centre, our qualifications allow us to prescribe limited medications that include various oral and topical antibiotics and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. We can also prescribe numerous topical medications that may be required (i.e. anti-fungals, corticosteroids etc.). Our scope also permits us to administer drugs thorough injection including local anesthetics and corticosteroids.

 

DO I NEED AN APPOINTMENT?
Yes, an appointment is required for all footcare services. This is to ensure that all patients are given the proper medical attention. During your initial examination we first determine the exact nature of the problem. Through discussion, assessment and accurate diagnosis, a management plan will be formulated to meet your individual requirements based on patient involvement. Emphasis is placed on treating the primary cause of your problem as well as the symptoms to prevent pain recurrence.

 

IS ASHBURNHAM FOOT AND ANKLE CENTRE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Ashburnham Foot and Ankle Centre is fully wheelchair, walker and scooter accessible while our staff are able to assist with access issues, including transferring from wheelchair to our fully functional treatment chairs.

 

HOW LONG IS MY FIRST APPOINTMENT AND WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Your first visit to the Ashburnham Foot and Ankle Centre will include a complete physical of your feet and legs, and a thorough medical history will be taken. The initial appointment will last approximately 40 minutes. You should wear or bring two pairs of shoes that you currently use the majority of the time (at work and in your free time) and you should wear or bring with you loose clothing (preferably shorts) so we can access/view the knees and lower leg. Also, please bring a list of any current medications you are taking.

 

IS THIS SERVICE COVERED THROUGH OHIP?
Chiropody services are not included under O.H.I.P. Fees are covered under many extended health insurance plans. Patients are advised to consult their insurance carrier regarding coverage and reimbursement prior to any appointment. Our fee schedule is based on the guidelines set by our professional association. For your convenience, we accept cash, cheques, debit, Visa, MasterCard.

 

CAN YOU BILL MY EXTENDED HEALTH INSURANCE DIRECTLY?

Yes! Our clinic offers direct billing to insurance companies. 

However, there are some insurance companies that do not allow direct billing for this type of provider. Please bring all insurance information with you to your appointment. 

 

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
Cost will vary depending on what treatment is required by our Chiropody professionals at the Ashburnham Foot and Ankle Centre. View our fee schedule HERE.

 

IF I NEED TO BUY ORTHOPEDIC SHOES, WHERE CAN I GET THEM?
Our facility carries a range of high-end orthopaedic type footwear approved by the podiatric medical profession that are fitted by one of our staff.

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CAN YOU DIRECT BILL MY INSURANCE FOR CUSTOM MADE FOOT ORTHOTICS?

We are able to direct bill for custom foot orthotics only when your primary insurance provider is Green Shield.

For all other insurance companies, a 50% deposit is required at the time of casting, with the remaining balance due when you pick up your orthotics.

At your pickup appointment, you will receive an orthotic package and receipt that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET CUSTOM FOOT ORTHOTICS?

Once your orthotics have been casted, they are sent to the lab to be made. The manufacturing process typically takes approximately three weeks.

Your orthotic fitting appointment will be scheduled for about three weeks after your casting appointment so that we can ensure they are ready for you.

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