Does Medicare Cover Podiatry?
Your feet are some of the most complex parts of your body — each containing 26 bones, 33 joints, and dozens of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Over time, issues like bunions, arthritis, diabetes-related complications, or simple wear and tear can cause pain and mobility problems. Fortunately, podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions. But one common question is: Does Medicare cover podiatry?
Let’s take a closer look at what foot care services and treatments Medicare may cover.
Does Medicare pay for podiatrist visits?
Medicare may cover podiatry visits if they are medically necessary. This means that Medicare Part B will help pay for certain podiatry services if you have a qualifying condition, such as diabetes-related nerve damage, foot injuries, or specific foot diseases.
For example, Medicare Part B may cover:
Treatments for foot injuries, infections, or diseases like bunions, heel spurs, or hammer toe
Therapeutic shoes, inserts, or shoe modifications for people with severe diabetic foot disease, when prescribed by a podiatrist
If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, your coverage could include additional foot care benefits. Because benefits vary by plan, always confirm details with your insurance provider.
Does Medicare cover routine foot care?
Typically, Medicare Part B does not cover routine foot care, such as:
Nail trimming or cutting
Removal of corns and calluses
Soaking, cleaning, or other hygienic maintenance
These are considered non-medical, preventive, or cosmetic services, and you’ll usually have to pay 100% of the costs.
However, some Medicare Advantage plans may include coverage for routine foot care, so it’s worth reviewing your plan details.
What foot care services are covered by Medicare?
If your foot care is medically necessary, Medicare Part B may cover it — especially for individuals with diabetes-related nerve damage or other qualifying conditions. Examples include treatment for:
Diabetic foot complications
Hammer toe or bunion deformities
Heel spurs and infections
You’ll generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.
A referral from your doctor is required for coverage, and the amount you pay will depend on:
Whether your provider accepts Medicare assignment
The type of facility (e.g., hospital outpatient care may include a copayment)
Any additional insurance coverage you may have
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your costs and coverage may differ.
How does Medicare cover diabetic foot care?
If you have diabetes-related lower leg nerve damage, Medicare Part B will cover an annual foot exam or treatment, as long as:
You are at increased risk of limb loss, and
You haven’t seen another foot care professional for a different reason during the same period
Medicare typically covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount, with the Part B deductible and possible copayments for hospital outpatient services.
You may also qualify for coverage of diabetic shoes and inserts if your doctor and supplier are both enrolled in Medicare. Covered items may include:
One pair of custom-molded shoes and inserts
One pair of extra-depth shoes
Two additional pairs of inserts each calendar year (for custom-molded shoes)
Three additional pairs of inserts each calendar year (for extra-depth shoes)
Shoe modifications (if inserts aren’t used)
So, does Medicare cover podiatry? Yes — but only when it’s medically necessary. Routine foot care, cosmetic services, or regular nail maintenance usually aren’t covered. If you have diabetes, foot disease, or another qualifying condition, Medicare Part B or your Medicare Advantage plan can help you get the care you need to stay mobile and healthy.