Does Medicare cover podiatry?

Often called a “foot doctor,” a podiatrist is a physician and surgeon who treats the foot, ankle and related parts of the leg. As a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, podiatrists have the letters “DPM” after their name instead of "MD" (medical doctor).

Podiatrists can do surgery, reset broken bones, prescribe drugs and order lab tests or X-rays. They work in many fields including sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics and diabetic care.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers podiatrist foot exams or treatment if:²

• You have diabetes-related nerve damage
• You need medically necessary treatment for foot injuries or diseases

The cost can depend on the services you receive. After you meet the Part B deductible ($226 in 2023), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for medically necessary treatment from your doctor. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay a copayment for medically necessary treatment.²

Medicare only covers medically necessary podiatry services such as:²

• Hammer toe
• Bunion deformities
• Heel spurs

If you plan to get treatment on your feet, ask your podiatrist if Medicare will help cover the costs before the procedure.

Medicare generally does not cover routine foot care services including:³

• Cutting or removing corns and calluses
• Trimming, cutting or clipping nails
• Hygienic or other preventive maintenance, like cleaning and soaking your feet

You pay 100% for routine foot care, in most cases.

Medicare will help cover 1 foot exam per year if you have diabetes‑related lower leg nerve damage that can increase the risk of limb loss. However, Medicare will only cover the exam if you haven’t seen a foot care professional for another reason between visits.⁴

If you have Original Medicare, Part B will help cover some of the costs for podiatry services. If you’re looking for additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare offers, check out the Humana Medicare Advantage plans in your area today!