How to Price Shorter Visits in Your Foot Care Practice

Balancing Clinical Judgment with Business Sense

As foot care nurses, we all have our standard pricing in place—initial assessments, routine visits, home care, and facility care. But what about those follow-up appointments that don’t quite fit into the usual categories? When a client needs to return in a week or two for continued callus reduction or post-ingrown toenail care, how do we price those shorter, more focused visits?

Let me walk you through what I consider when pricing these types of treatments.

What to Factor In:

1. Tools & Equipment Used – If a sterile instrument set is required, that processing cost needs to be included.

2. Time Spent – Whether it’s 10 minutes or 30, your time (and your team’s) has value.

3. Home vs. Clinic Visit – Travel time and logistics can influence pricing.

4. Frequency & Duration – Will these shorter visits continue for weeks or months? Factor in how long you’ll be providing this enhanced care plan.

Built-In Treatment Categories

In my own pricing system, I’ve created dedicated treatment codes for things like:

• Callus/Corn Care

• Ingrown Toenail Treatments

• Wart Treatments (typically needing weekly intervals)

These are not routine care treatments unless they’ve transitioned into the maintenance phase. Until then, they require special attention and must be priced accordingly.

Follow-Up Appointments: What’s Free, What’s Not

If I request a client returns due to swelling or if I couldn’t complete a treatment in one session, I don’t charge for that follow-up. It’s a continuation of care I chose to delay—not a new service. I offer a 10-minute follow-up treatment at no charge for those clients where I deem checking in matters more than billing.

I also offer a 4-week comfort guarantee. If a client experiences discomfort from an ingrown toenail or corn/callus within that time, I’ll see them again at no cost. Why? Because I want to ensure my care plan timeline is accurate—and if it isn't, I’d rather catch it early and adjust than see them suffer in silence until their next appointment, where I would need to start from the beginning of treatment again instead of progressing in their care.

However, if I suspect the issue will return before that 4-week mark—say, the nail is growing faster than expected—I’ll book them in 2 to 3 weeks and charge accordingly. That’s not a continuation; that’s a proactive, scheduled treatment.

The same applies to corns and calluses. If I underestimated the regrowth timeline and they return early, that’s on me—I won’t charge. But if I know their condition needs shorter intervals for ongoing management, I set that expectation upfront and build a fair price that reflects my time, tools, and expertise.

Travel & Home Care Considerations

If you're offering home care and need to include shorter follow-up visits, don’t forget to account for your travel time. One approach is to create a treatment code called “Home Care Follow-Up Treatment – reduced charge”, and clearly explain to clients that while the treatment itself is complimentary, the travel fee is built into the pricing. It may seem like a small detail, but being intentional about how you account for your time and resources is key to keeping your business sustainable and professional.

Be Upfront With Clients

Whatever system you choose, make your options clear to your clients. Explain your treatment protocols and timelines from the start, so they know what to expect and why certain care intervals or charges exist. This builds trust and supports adherence to your recommended care plan.

In Summary:

Shorter visits aren’t less valuable—they’re often more strategic. Price them with intention, transparency, and confidence. You’re not just performing a treatment—you’re managing a care plan. Set expectations, reflect your clinical expertise in your pricing, and don’t be afraid to value your time. This is your business—make sure your pricing works for you and your clients.