Medicare Helps Diabetics with Shoes
by Marcel Cadieux, C.Ped

Did you know that you may be entitled to a pair of extra-depth shoes and three pairs of custom-molded inserts every year?  This Medicare administered program has not been widely communicated to the diabetic community.  Many qualifying persons are not aware of this benefit and as a result are not getting the shoes, inserts and additional care which would help them battle the effects of diabetes on their feet and legs.

According to the American Diabetes Association, there are approximately 16 million Americans with diabetes.  Unfortunately, this number continues to grow.  Twenty-five percent of persons with diabetes develop foot problems related to the disease.  Recognizing the importance of proper footwear as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for diabetics, Congress approved the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Bill; helping thousands of persons with diabetes obtain protective footwear and inserts.

If you qualify, you may be entitled to 80-100% coverage of a pair of extra-depth shoes and three pairs of custom-molded inserts every year.  To be in accordance with the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program, the footwear must be fitted and furnished by a qualified individual such as a pedorthist, orthotist, prosthetist or a podiatrist.

Be certain you are receiving the level of care intended by the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Bill.  The evaluation, measuring and fitting of these devices in a clinical setting is a process that involves considerable personal contact between the practitioner and the patient, as it should be.  Care is taken by the provider of these devices to assure proper fit and function.  Patient education and follow-ups in the office are also vital parts of the process.

The potential for complications can be serious to a diabetic if these devices are not properly fitted.  Modifications and adjustments to the shoes and inserts are sometimes needed.  Modifications should only be done by someone with the proper training and equipment.

Diabetic footwear and insoles cannot be done properly over the Internet, through the mail or out of the back of a truck.  These companies usually do not have a proper fitting stock or the necessary facilities for private and comprehensive evaluation and fitting.  Rarely will they have the equipment needed for modification and adjustment if needed.  Their personnel may lack the training to be considered a "qualified individual" under the Medicare therapeutic Shoe Bill.

If you are diabetic and are currently under the care of a physician, you may qualify for this vital Medicare program.  If you have a family member or friend who may benefit from this program, please communicate this information to them.  It could make a big difference to their quality of life.

FOOT SOLUTIONS in Temecula is an approved Medicare provider for the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program and can assist you with your claim.  Foot Solutions has three Certified Pedorthists on staff.

For more information about diabetic foot care, diabetic shoes, socks, custom orthotics and the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program for diabetics, visit FOOT SOLUTIONS at 29700 Rancho California Road in Temecula or call (951) 506-6325.