Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a foot and ankle surgeon and a podiatrist / podiatric surgeon?

• A foot and ankle surgeon has completed 5 years of medical school, internship (2 years), basic surgery training (2 years), orthopaedic surgery training (6 years) and then a fellowship in Foot and Ankle Surgery prior to working as a consultant. They are a fellow of the Australasian Royal College of Surgeons.
• Podiatrists complete a Bachelor of Podiatry degree. They can then do further training to become a podiatric surgeon.
• Dr Varrall works closely with podiatrists in Rockhampton both pre and post-operatively.

2. Will I have to travel to Brisbane for treatment?

• Usually not - Dr Varrall is able to offer most surgeries here in Rockhampton. Occassionally you may need to travel to Brisbane for specific investigations.
• Exceptions to this also include club feet and other congential foot deformities, and any surgery that will require input from plastic surgeons or vascular surgeons, as these services are only available in Brisbane.

3. Where can I be seen in clinic?

• Dr Varrall has private clinics at Mater Hospital Rockhampton. She also sees public patients in Rockhampton and Gladstone.

4. Where will my surgery be?

• Operations will be performed at Mater Hospital Rockhampton.

5. How do I organise an appointment to see Dr Varrall?

• Please ask your GP to send a referral as directed on the GP information page

6. What should I bring to my first appointment?

• Your Medicare card / DVA card / Insurance details / Workcover claim number (as appropriate)
• Your referral letter 
• List of all the medications you are currently taking
• List of your current medical problems