Private Podiatry vs NHS: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to foot health, timely and effective treatment can make all the difference. If you're dealing with ongoing foot pain, nail issues, or mobility concerns, you might be wondering whether to choose private podiatry or wait for NHS care.

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between private and NHS podiatry, so you can make an informed decision about your foot care

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What Does NHS Podiatry Offer?

The NHS provides podiatry services for patients with medical needs that meet specific criteria—this often includes:

• Diabetic foot care

• Wound management

• Serious infections or ulcerations

• High-risk foot conditions (e.g. poor circulation, neuropathy)

Accessing NHS podiatry typically requires a referral from your GP, and unfortunately, waiting times can be lengthy due to high demand and limited resources. Routine issues like corns, calluses, fungal nails, or mild foot pain may not meet the NHS treatment threshold.

What Is Private Podiatry?

Private podiatry offers direct access to a qualified podiatrist without the need for a referral. At Cristina Varon Podiatry, for example, I treat patients in Bicester and Berkhamsted for a wide range of foot concerns—from routine nail care to advanced treatments like nail surgery and nail bracing.

Benefits of Choosing Private Podiatry:

• No wait times – Appointments available when you need them

• Personalised care – Tailored treatment based on your lifestyle and goals

• Comprehensive services – From foot pain and sports injuries to diabetic foot checks

• Continuity of care – See the same practitioner every time

• Preventative care – Address minor issues before they become serious

If you're experiencing discomfort, want routine care, or are simply looking for expert advice, private podiatry ensures you’re seen quickly and treated thoroughly.

Private Podiatry vs NHS: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Private Podiatry	NHS Podiatry
Access	No referral needed	Referral required from GP
Wait Times	Same-week availability	Often weeks or months
Conditions Treated	All foot concerns	High-risk medical cases only
Personalised Care	Yes, tailored to you	Limited due to system pressures
Continuity of Practitioner	Consistent, same podiatrist	May vary between visits
Appointment Length	Extended time for thorough care	Often shorter, time-limited

Why Many Patients Choose Private Podiatry

While NHS services are valuable for complex or high-risk cases, many people choose private podiatry to avoid delays and receive more comprehensive support.

Private care allows you to:

• Proactively manage foot health

• Access treatments not available through the NHS

• Benefit from a more relaxed, focused environment

If you have persistent foot problems that don’t meet NHS criteria or simply prefer fast, expert treatment, private podiatry can be a worthwhile investment in your health.

Book an Appointment at Cristina Varon Podiatry

At my clinics in Bicester and Berkhamsted, I offer a full range of private podiatry services, from general foot care to minor surgery and biomechanical assessments. You’ll receive high-quality, personalised care in a calm and professional setting.

Take control of your foot health today— book your private podiatry appointment and feel the difference.