Orthopaedic surgery or orthopaedics is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopaedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal deformities and trauma, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumours, and congenital disorders.

All orthopaedic surgeons are trained in the management of foot and ankle conditions. Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons have a special interest and advanced training in foot and ankle disorders. They treat conditions from ingrown toenails and bunions to complex hind-foot fusions and ankle replacements.

If you have consulted a podiatrist who operates then they are not a medical practioner. Medical practitioners are registered by the Medical Board of Australia under AHPRA. Their qualifications can be checked here. All orthopaedic surgeons, including our members, are medical doctors. 

Provided that your surgeon is a qualified medical practitioner (check here) most will be. In rare circumstances for unusual surgery they may not be but your surgeon should discuss this with you prior to the procedure. If you have consulted a podiatrist who operates it is unlikely that the cost of implants will be covered by your insurer.

If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident and your surgeon is a qualified medical practitioner (check here), you will be able to claim Medicare benefits for your treatment. If you have consulted a podiatrist who operates your surgery will not be covered by Medicare.

Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons are committed to equal access to healthcare for all patients. Most of our members consult and operate in both public and private hospitals. All of Perth's tertiary public teaching hospitals have specialist orthopaedic surgeons managing foot and ankle conditions from ingrown toenails to major trauma.

Yes. Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons have a medical degree and have comprehensive knowledge of medical conditions associated with foot and ankle conditions as well as of perioperative problems requiring medication.

Yes. Orthopaedic surgeons frequently manage foot and ankle conditions non-operatively and work closely with allied health practitioners (orthotists, podiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists) for provision of orthoses and treatment. They work as leaders of multi-disciplinary teams to achieve the best outcomes.

All WAOFAS members are covered by all private health insurers. Depending on which health insurance provider you use additional fees may incurred. A quote should be sought prior to the operation. If you have consulted a podiatrist who operates it is unlikely that the cost of your surgery will be covered by your insurer.

Any anaesthetist working with a certified WAOFAS member is eligible to access a Medicare rebate. Additional fees may be incurred. A quote should be sought prior to the operation.