By the KMW Podiatry team. Last reviewed November 2026.
Veterans and eligible family members can access podiatry through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). Which services are covered depends on the card you hold. This guide explains the difference between the Gold Card and the White Card for podiatry, how referrals work and what to expect at KMW Podiatry in Adelaide.
The two DVA health cards
From 1 July 2026, DVA’s health cards carry updated official names: the Gold Card is now the Veteran Card – All Conditions and the White Card is the Veteran Card – Specific Conditions. DVA says entitlements have not changed, and many people still use the familiar Gold and White names.
Veteran Gold Card (All Conditions). The Gold Card generally covers clinically required treatment for all health conditions, whether or not they are related to service. For podiatry, this means a Gold Card holder can usually be seen for any foot or lower-limb problem they are referred for.
Veteran White Card (Specific Conditions). The White Card covers treatment for specific conditions that DVA has accepted as related to service. It can also cover some treatment through DVA’s Non-Liability Health Care arrangements, such as treatment for mental health conditions and, for some people, cancer or pulmonary tuberculosis. For podiatry, the foot or lower-limb problem usually needs to be linked to an accepted condition. For example, if knee or ankle problems are accepted by DVA, related podiatry care may be covered.
If you are not sure which conditions are on your White Card, check your DVA letter or MyService, or call DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).
Do I need a referral?
Yes. For DVA-funded podiatry you need a valid referral, usually from your GP. For a first treatment cycle, the referral can also come from a medical specialist, a treating hospital doctor or a hospital discharge planner. Under DVA’s allied health treatment cycle, a referral lasts for up to 12 sessions or one year, whichever ends first. At the end of a cycle your podiatrist reports back to your GP, who can write a new referral if you need more care. There is no limit on the number of treatment cycles you can have if they are clinically needed.
When you book, let us know that you are a DVA client and which card you hold. You can fax the referral to 08 7081 3009 or bring it to your first visit.
What podiatry services may be covered?
Depending on your card and clinical need, DVA-funded podiatry can include:
- assessment of foot and lower-limb problems
- nail care, including thickened or ingrown nails
- care of corns and calluses
- diabetes foot assessments and ongoing foot care
- advice on footwear and exercises
- orthoses (insoles), within DVA limits per 365-day period, with prior approval needed for more
Some treatments, such as shockwave therapy and laser therapy for fungal nails, need DVA prior approval, and DVA does not pay for some treatments, including dry needling. Medical grade footwear has separate DVA rules: a podiatrist can prescribe it, but it is supplied through DVA’s arrangements. Your podiatrist will explain what applies to you before anything is ordered.
Is there a gap fee?
For eligible DVA-funded appointments, DVA pays the provider directly and you do not pay a gap fee. If an item is not covered by DVA (for example, a product that needs prior approval that has not been given), our team will tell you before it goes ahead.
Home visits for veterans
If getting to a clinic is difficult, KMW offers home visits in many parts of Adelaide. DVA can fund home visits where there is a genuine need. Ask our team whether a home visit is available in your suburb.
Gold Card or White Card: quick comparison
| Gold Card (All Conditions) | White Card (Specific Conditions) | |
|---|---|---|
| Conditions covered | Generally all clinically required treatment | Accepted service-related conditions (and some others) |
| Referral needed | Yes | Yes |
| Podiatry for any foot problem | Usually, if clinically required | Only if linked to an accepted condition |
| Home visits | Possible where there is a genuine need | Possible if linked to an accepted condition and needed |
What to bring to your first appointment
- your DVA card
- your referral (if not faxed)
- a list of your medicines
- the shoes you wear most often, plus any orthoses
Frequently asked questions
Can my spouse use my card?
Only if they hold their own DVA card. Eligibility is individual.
Can I see any podiatrist?
You can see a podiatrist who accepts DVA cards. KMW’s Ahpra-registered podiatrists see DVA clients at 22 clinics across Adelaide and Gawler. Check with any provider before booking that they accept your card.
What if my problem isn’t covered on my White Card?
You can still be seen as a private patient, use private health extras, or ask your GP whether a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan applies.
Do I need a new referral every year?
A referral lasts up to 12 sessions or one year, whichever ends first. After that, your GP can provide a new referral if more treatment is clinically needed.
Book a DVA podiatry appointment
Book online, read more about DVA podiatry, or call 1800 962 113 for help with your referral.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. DVA rules change from time to time; check the DVA website or call DVA for the current details of your entitlements. KMW Podiatry’s podiatrists are registered with the Podiatry Board of Australia through Ahpra.
