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Frequently asked · 17 answers

The questions I’m asked most.

Common questions about podiatry, appointments, payment and what to expect. If yours isn’t here, please get in touch — I’d rather you ask.

From Mark

“There’s no such thing as a silly question. If you’re unsure about anything — cost, comfort, what to wear — please just ask. It’s part of the appointment.”

Appointments

How do I book?
Online booking covers Hall Green and Hollywood clinics — you'll see live availability and can confirm your slot in a couple of minutes. For home visits, use the contact form or call 07824 506 839 — please leave a message if I don't answer (I'll often be mid-appointment) and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.
How long is an appointment?
Appointments are 20 minutes. Nail surgery is allowed 90 minutes including the pre-op consult and aftercare instructions.
What should I bring to my first visit?
A list of any medications, details of any relevant medical conditions, and the footwear you spend most of your day in. Older shoes are useful too — the wear pattern is informative.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, in the immediate area around the Hall Green and Hollywood clinics. Home visits suit housebound patients or anyone for whom a clinic visit is impractical. Please get in touch and I'll confirm availability and the area.
Can I cancel or rearrange?
Yes — please give at least 24 hours notice where possible so the appointment can be offered to someone else. Late cancellations may incur a charge.

Treatment

What is podiatry?
Podiatry is the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the foot and lower limb. In the UK the term has replaced 'chiropody' to align with international standards. A podiatrist is a regulated healthcare professional with a HCPC registration.
What conditions do you treat?
Routine nail and skin care, ingrowing toenails (including surgery), foot and heel pain, sports-related injuries, biomechanical issues, acupuncture for musculoskeletal pain, and footwear advice. If something is outside my scope I'll tell you and refer on.
Is the treatment painful?
Routine treatments — nail cutting, callus reduction — should be comfortable. For ingrowing toenail surgery a local anaesthetic is used, so the procedure itself is painless. I'll always explain what to expect first.
Will my problem come back?
Some things recur — callus and corns will return if the pressure causing them isn't addressed. Part of every appointment is identifying the cause and giving you a plan, not just treating the symptom on the day.
How often should I see a podiatrist?
It varies. Routine care patients might come every 6–10 weeks; others come once a year for a check; some come for one problem and never need to return. We'll find a rhythm that suits you.

Payment & insurance

How much does an appointment cost?
First clinic visits are £45, follow-up visits £35. Nail surgery £375, biomechanical assessment From £45. Full prices are on the Prices page. You'll be advised of the cost before any treatment begins.
Do you accept Bupa or WPA?
Yes — I'm listed on the Bupa finder, and WPA members are welcome too. Please check your policy covers podiatry before booking, and bring your authorisation reference to your first appointment.
How do I pay?
Card or cash at the appointment. For Bupa or WPA patients, treatment can be invoiced direct to your insurer where authorised.
Do you offer NHS appointments here?
My private clinics at Hall Green and Hollywood are private only. I also work in the NHS at Solihull Hospital and Birmingham Children's Hospital — those appointments are arranged through your GP.

About me

What qualifications do you have?
BSc (Hons) Podiatric Medicine. Registered with the HCPC: CH16641. NHS-employed alongside private practice.
How long have you been practising?
Hall Green clinic since 2005, Hollywood clinic since 2017. I've been a podiatrist for over 20 years and continue to work in the NHS alongside private practice.
Do you treat children?
Yes — I work at Birmingham Children's Hospital and see paediatric patients in private clinic too. Children's feet often need a different approach; please mention age and concerns when you book.
Still have questions

Ask me directly. Always free, always straight.

If your question isn’t covered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Leave a message and I’ll respond within 24 hours — and there’s no charge for a quick clarifying call before booking.