Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
In most cases, no — you can schedule directly with our office. Some insurance plans (including certain HMO plans) do require a referral from your primary care physician, so we recommend checking your plan or calling us; we're happy to verify for you.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We work hard to see new patients quickly — often within the same week. Urgent problems like infections, injuries, and diabetic wound concerns are prioritized, frequently same- or next-day. Call (386) 217-6556 and tell us what's going on.
What should I bring to my first visit?
A photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any prior imaging or records related to your foot or ankle problem. Comfortable shoes you wear often are also genuinely useful — they tell us a lot about your feet.
Do you treat children?
Yes. We provide pediatric podiatry for children and teens — flat feet, walking concerns, heel pain, warts, ingrown nails, and sports injuries — in a gentle, kid-friendly way.
Will my visit hurt?
Almost never. Exams are gentle, and any in-office procedure that could be uncomfortable is done under effective local anesthetic. Patients routinely tell us the visit was far easier than they feared.
Do you accept Medicare and private insurance?
We accept Medicare and most major insurance plans. Coverage varies by plan and service, so we verify your benefits before treatment and explain any expected costs up front. See our Insurance & Billing page for details.
What if I need surgery — what happens next?
First, surgery is never the starting point unless the problem truly requires it. If it is indicated, Dr. Panchal walks you through exactly what the procedure involves, what recovery looks like week by week, and what results to expect — then our team coordinates scheduling, insurance authorization, and follow-up care.
How long is recovery after bunion or hammertoe surgery?
It depends on the procedure. Many corrections allow protected walking early in recovery, with return to regular shoes in a matter of weeks; larger reconstructions can take longer. You'll get an honest, personalized timeline before anything is scheduled.
Do you offer treatments besides surgery and medication?
Yes — a large part of our practice is non-surgical: custom molded orthotics, shockwave therapy, bracing, and structured rehabilitation plans. We always exhaust the conservative options that genuinely work before discussing surgery.
Where are you located and what are your hours?
We're located in Daytona Beach, Florida, serving all of Volusia County. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. Visit our Contact page for directions.