Best Diabetic Shoes Covered by Medicare (Therapeutic Shoe Bill)
If you have diabetes plus neuropathy, foot deformity, prior ulcer, or PAD, Medicare pays for one pair of diabetic shoes plus three pairs of inserts annually. Most patients pay $0-$50 out-of-pocket. Quality diabetic shoe brands: Dr. Comfort, Drew, Apex, Orthofeet, New Balance Diabetic, Propet.
Who Qualifies for Medicare Diabetic Shoes?
You qualify if you have diabetes AND any of: peripheral neuropathy, foot deformity (bunion, hammertoe, Charcot), peripheral arterial disease (PAD), prior foot ulcer, prior amputation, pre-ulcerative callus formation. We complete the paperwork; you bring it to your primary care doctor for sign-off. Medicare pays 80%; supplemental usually covers the rest.
Best Diabetic Shoe Brands
Dr. Comfort — Wide variety, ortho-friendly, good styles.
Drew Footwear — Specifically designed for diabetic feet and deformities.
Apex — Strong selection, includes athletic styles.
Orthofeet — Premium materials, ergonomic strobel construction.
New Balance Diabetic — Athletic-style options.
Propet — Affordable diabetic-approved styles.
What Makes a Shoe “Diabetic Approved”?
1) Extra depth (1/4″ deeper than standard) for swelling and inserts, 2) Wide widths available (B to 6E), 3) No internal seams over pressure points, 4) Soft, breathable uppers, 5) Removable insole for custom orthotic accommodation, 6) Slip-resistant outsole, 7) Manufacturer-certified diabetic shoe per Medicare requirements.
How to Get Medicare-Covered Shoes
- Schedule diabetic foot exam at our office
- We document medical necessity
- Your primary care signs Statement of Certifying Physician
- We measure and fit shoes at the office
- Medicare pays 80%, secondary covers rest typically
- You get one pair of shoes + three pairs of inserts annually
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really pay nothing for Medicare diabetic shoes?
Most patients pay $0-$50. With Medicare + supplemental, often free. Without supplemental, 20% coinsurance applies.
How often can I get new diabetic shoes?
Once per calendar year for shoes. Three pairs of inserts per year.
Can I pick any shoe I want?
Must be Medicare-approved diabetic shoe with extra depth. Many style options available across brands.
Do I need to see a podiatrist for diabetic shoes?
Podiatrist or primary care can document. Podiatrist exam is more comprehensive for diabetic foot risk stratification.
Have Foot Pain?
📞 Call (810) 206-1402 — Same-Week Appointments Available
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
Book an appointment with a podiatrist
Therapeutic footwear only protects a diabetic foot if it fits the foot you actually have, which is why the Medicare benefit requires an in-person exam and a prescribing physician. Balance Foot & Ankle sees patients at two offices — Howell in Livingston County, and Bloomfield Township in Oakland County.
Book online or call (810) 206-1402 or use the form below and our team will find you an appointment time.