Recommended Products for Medicare Patients
These products complement your Medicare-covered podiatric care and help maintain foot health between appointments:
Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream — Prevents diabetic skin cracking and infections. Apply daily after washing feet.
PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — Medical-grade arch support for patients waiting on custom orthotics or as a daily alternative.
SB SOX Compression Socks — Graduated compression reduces swelling for seniors with circulation issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Foot Care
Does Medicare cover toenail trimming?
Medicare covers routine toenail trimming only if you have a qualifying condition such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or peripheral vascular disease. Without a qualifying condition, routine nail care is considered cosmetic and not covered. In our clinic, we document your qualifying conditions to ensure Medicare covers your nail care visits.
Does Medicare pay for custom orthotics?
Yes, Medicare covers custom orthotics through the Therapeutic Shoe Program for patients with diabetes. This includes one pair of custom-molded shoes or inserts per calendar year. Your podiatrist must certify medical necessity and the orthotics must be prescribed as part of a comprehensive diabetes treatment plan.
How often can I see a podiatrist with Medicare?
There is no strict visit limit for medically necessary podiatric care under Medicare. Diabetic patients typically qualify for exams every 3-6 months. For acute conditions like infections or injuries, you can be seen as often as needed. Medicare covers the visit as long as your podiatrist documents medical necessity.
Does Medicare cover bunion surgery?
Yes, Medicare covers bunion surgery when it is medically necessary. Your podiatrist must document that the bunion is causing significant pain, difficulty walking, or interfering with daily activities. Cosmetic bunion correction without functional impairment is not covered.
Watch: Medicare Podiatrist Michigan: What’s Covered
Dr. Tom on Michigan Medicare podiatry — diabetic foot exam, routine vs medical nail care, orthotic coverage, Medicare Advantage vs Original, Howell + BH.
Medicare Senior Foot Kit
Between Medicare visits. Dr. Tom’s kit:
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Daily arch support for seniors.
Fall prevention.
Arthritic flare control.
Topical foot/ankle relief.
Related: Howell Medicare · Bloomfield Medicare · Book Same-Week Appointment
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
- Heel Pain (APMA)
- Hallux Valgus (Bunions): Evaluation and Management (PubMed)
- Bunions (Mayo Clinic)