Quick Answer
Medicare Part B covers podiatry services that are medically necessary, including treatment for foot injuries, infections, and diabetic foot care. Routine foot care such as trimming of non-problematic toenails is generally not covered unless you have a qualifying systemic condition like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part A & B) | Partial | Part B covers medically necessary podiatry; routine nail trimming generally not covered |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Varies by Plan | Many plans cover additional foot care benefits; check your plan's Evidence of Coverage |
| Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Helps with Cost-Sharing | Covers Part B 20% coinsurance for any podiatry visit Original Medicare approves |
| Medicare Part D | May Cover Related Rx | May cover medications prescribed for foot infections or diabetic foot conditions |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers podiatry services that are medically necessary. This includes treatment for foot injuries, infections, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and diabetic foot care. If you have diabetes or a condition affecting circulation in your feet, Medicare also covers routine foot care such as nail trimming when performed by a podiatrist as part of your treatment plan.
Routine foot care that is not related to a medical condition is generally not covered. After meeting the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered podiatry visits.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Many Medicare Advantage plans cover the same podiatry services as Original Medicare and may offer additional foot care benefits. Coverage and copays vary by plan. Review your plan's Evidence of Coverage or call your plan to confirm what podiatry services are included.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
A Medigap plan does not expand which podiatry services are covered, but it pays your cost-sharing for any visit that Original Medicare approves. Plan G covers the Part B 20% coinsurance, reducing your out-of-pocket cost to $0 after the deductible.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com. He is a member and regular contributor to Forbes Finance Council.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare. She trains agents on CMS compliance guidelines.