“Routine” foot care means toenail clipping and the removal of corns and calluses, which is not considered for an annual foot exam. However, your insurance may cover these in specific circumstances. It depends on what your insurance considers medically necessary. For example:
- If you have foot problems that are caused by conditions such as diabetes, cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic kidney disease, or inflammation of the veins related to blood clots.
- If you have diabetes, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, or loss of sensation in your feet, you should qualify for a foot test every year, provided that you haven’t seen a foot care specialist for another reason between visits.
- If you have diabetes, your insurance may cover custom-molded therapeutic shoes or inserts.
In all these situations, you need your doctor or a podiatrist to provide evidence that the care is medically necessary.
What Kind of Foot Care is Cover?
“Foot care” can refer to treatment for serious conditions that affect the health of your feet and everyday concerns like calluses. Insurance separates these two kinds of foot care and will only cover treatments that are medically necessary.
For foot care to be considered medically necessary, it needs to be prescribed by a physician or other licensed medical professional. Generally, they will cover services you receive from a qualified podiatrist, although care from other physicians and providers might also be covered in some cases.
Other examples of foot care that would be considered medically necessary might include treatment for:
- emergencies
- injuries
- wounds
- infected nails
- hammer toe
- heel spurs
What is covered for diabetic foot care?
Many insurance companies have different foot care rules if you have diabetes. This is because diabetes can lead to an increased risk of serious foot problems.
Many issues are caused by nerve damage called neuropathy. Over time, this nerve damage can cause you to no longer feel any sensation in your feet. This can make it difficult to know if you’ve injured your foot or have a wound. People with diabetes are also susceptible to skin damage and ulcers, which can become infected.
TALK TO DR. ARIEL LEPOFF
If you have concerns about your legs or feet, please call (561) 622-6111 and make an appointment to come see Dr. Ariel Lepoff at The Medical Group of South Florida.
Dr. Lepoff will do an examination and evaluate the overall condition of your legs and feet. Then together with you, determine the best course of treatment to bring about proper healing. Whenever, wherever you need us, we’re here for you.