Question 1

What is Chiropody?

Accepted Answer

Chiropody is a branch of the medical sciences that involves the assessment and management of foot and lower limb disorders: this includes the management of a wide variety of disorders, injuries and local manifestations of systemic conditions.
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A Chiropodist is a primary care professional that specializes in the assessment, management and prevention of diseases and disorders of the foot. Chiropodists are skilled in assessing the needs of their patients and of managing both chronic and acute conditions affecting foot and lower limb function.  As a primary care provider capable of independent clinical practice, these skills are often practiced independent of medical referral.

Question 2

Chiropody vs. Podiatry?

Accepted Answer

Members of the College of Chiropodists of Ontario include chiropodists and podiatrists. The term podiatrist is more commonly known and used. Ontario is the last place anywhere in the world to use the term chiropodist to indicate a foot specialist.

There are a few practitioners in Ontario classified as podiatrists. They were educated in the USA and started practicing in Ontario before the Chiropody Act came into existence. Graduates of the Ontario Chiropody Program and podiatrists new to the province (from the US or anywhere else in the world) are classified as chiropodists.

Question 3

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. Chiropodists are primary health care providers and no referral from a doctor is necessary. Massage therapy and physiotherapy also do not require a referral from a doctor.  However, some insurance providers may need a doctor's referral in order for you to be reimbursed.

Question 4

Are services covered by OHIP?​​​​

Accepted Answer

No, Chiropody, Physiotherapy and Registered Massage Therapy services are not covered by OHIP. Most extended health plans will cover Chiropody, Physiotherapy and Registered Massage Therapy services. We provide all receipts and supporting documentation you will need to submit your claim. Knowing your health benefit coverage is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to assist you should you need assistance. We advise all patients to check their coverage before coming into the clinic.

​We accept cash, debit, ​VISA, Mastercard and American Express.​

Question 5

Do you submit directly to my extended health benefit plan?

Accepted Answer

The answer again is no. We will provide you with everything you need to submit your claim. Should your provider require more information after the claim has been submitted, we will be happy to provide it for you.
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We provide detailed invoices. We try to be as transparent as possible to you and the insurance company to ensure to all parties that we are not billing frivolously or fraudulently.

Question 6

Do you sell shoes? Are shoes covered by my insurance?​

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do offer a full range of fashionable orthopedic shoes and sandals. 
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Some insurance plans will cover shoes. It is helpful to check with your insurance provider to see if you have coverage for shoes before coming into the clinic. We can then help select the pair best suited for you.

Frequently asked questions