An endorsed podiatrist has completed extra training and education that allows them to prescribe certain medications for foot and ankle conditions. To gain endorsement, podiatrists undertake advanced study in pharmacology, complete supervised clinical training, and gain experience working alongside prescribing healthcare professionals.
Like all podiatrist’s, endorsed podiatrists are registered with AHPRA and are required to keep their knowledge and skills up to date through ongoing professional development.
An endorsed podiatrist can prescribe certain medications as part of your treatment, which means you may not need to make a separate appointment with your GP. This can help you start treatment sooner, save time, and reduce healthcare costs. Having this addition can be really beneficial to not only your treatment overall, but having it all done in the one clinic can streamline your care.
Antibiotics If you have an infected ingrown toenail or another foot-related infection, an endorsed podiatrist can prescribe the appropriate antibiotic and begin treatment immediately.
Antifungal medications Fungal nail infections are a common foot condition. An endorsed podiatrist can prescribe topical and some oral antifungal medications when needed.
Cortisone creams Some rashes and irritations can require prescription of a topical corticosteroid cream.
Inflammatory conditions An endorsed podiatrist can help manage inflammatory disorders using medications, alongside hands-on treatments and personalised management plans. These can be useful at subsiding and controlling symptoms and inflammation processes which can allow for quicker and easier recovery. For example, an anti-inflammatory may be prescribed for bursitis in the foot when deemed safe.
Pre- and post-procedure medications For patients who are anxious about a procedure or require medication before or after treatment, an endorsed podiatrist can prescribe certain medications that will aid in the pre-procedural anxiety and help with your after care.
Disclaimer: All therapeutic treatment is a long side other podiatric treatment, can only be used for the foot and ankle and prescriptions are non-PBS funded.
Mia Orford is our Endorsed Podiatrist at Stepping Out Podiatry, so ask for Mia next time you have an ingrown nail or would like to streamline your treatment.