Frequently Asked Questions Are Pedorthists covered under OHIP?
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
How long is my appointment going to take?
Do I need to wear shorts to my appointment?
What are your business hours?
Do you work Saturdays?
How can I pay for my orthotics?
How long does it take to get my orthotics?
Does it matter if I see someone at my first appointment and then book in to see a different Pedorthist for an adjustment?
What is the difference between a Pedorthist and a Podiatrist?
Who can prescribe orthotics for my insurance company? These are a few of the FAQ's by clients. If you have a question that is not on our list, please feel free to contact head office in Kitchener. We will be happy to answer it for you. Are Pedorthists covered under OHIP? No, unfortunately we are not covered under OHIP, however most extended health benefit plans do cover at least a portion of the orthotics. To find out if your plan covers orthotics, orthopaedic shoes, or bracing please contact your company’s HR department or your insurance company directly to find out. Because we are not covered under OHIP, there is a small charge for the first appointment that will come off the price of the orthotics if or when you order them. Top What do I need to bring to my appointment? Bring at least one pair of shoes that you wear on a regular basis. This way we can see what type of footwear we are trying to fit orthotics into, we can also see the wear pattern on your shoes if they have been well worn. If you play any sports that require special footwear, please bring those along as well. You also need to bring a prescription or referral note from your doctor if you are requiring a new pair of orthotics. If this is a repeat pair of custom made orthotics, you will want to check out with your insurance company to see if you need a new prescription or if your original one is still on file. If you are coming in for an adjustment, you need your orthotics and at least one pair of shoes you wear them in. Top Do I need shorts at my appointment? Generally you do not need to wear/bring shorts. The only time you would need them is if you were being fitted for a custom knee brace. You should be able to roll up your pants slightly so the Pedorthist can see your shin, ankle, and foot area. Top How long is my appointment going to take? Generally your first consultation will take about 30 minutes. Any follow up appointments for adjustments or check up’s will take anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes. The pick up appointment for your orthotics is fairly quick and should only take from 10 - 15 minutes. Top What are your hours? The hours change depending on the Pedorthist, time of year, and clinic location. To find out the current hours, please contact the clinic location you want to book your appointment at. Head office in Kitchener generally knows what hours other clinics are open, BUT they do not schedule appointments for other locations. Top Do you work Saturdays? No, we do not work Saturdays. Monday to Friday appointments only. Top How can I pay for my orthotics? At most offices we take Visa, Master Card, Interact, Cash, and Cheque. We can also take a post dated cheque for a maximum of 2 weeks. Payment is due when you pick up your orthotics. Please note that some of our clinics are not set up to take interact, and some clinics will have other post dated cheque policies. Please contact the office to find out their methods of payment. Top How long does it take to get orthotics? We try our best to do a one-week turnaround. On occasion, due to holidays, we might as you to wait two weeks or to see another pedorthist that is covering while someone else is on holidays. Top Does it matter if I see someone at my first appointment and then book in to see a different Pedorthist for an adjustment? No, you are allowed to see whoever suits your schedule best. All of our Pedorthists will have access to your file for your appointment, so they will all be able to perform any adjustments necessary to your orthotics. Top What is the difference between a Pedorthist and a Podiatrist? There are many differences but some of the main differences are that Pedorthists only deal with the biomechanics of the lower limbs. They can help with foot, knee, back, hip, and shin pain (to name a few). They do not deal with any skin problems such as fungus or ingrown toenails. Another difference is that Pedorthists cannot prescribe anything such as xrays, medication, or their own orthotics. For insurance purposes a note from a Certified Pedorthist will not suffice. Top Who can prescribe orthotics for my insurance company? The three professionals that can prescribe orthotics, orthopedic footwear, and braces are Podiatrists, Chiropodists, and Medical Doctors (your family doctor or the urgent care clinic). Generally, orthotics must be prescribed from one of the professionals above and manufactured by a qualified professional such as a Certified Pedorthist. These are just guidelines and it is important that you check with your specific insurance plan to see their requirements!! Top |
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