The American Diabetes Association estimates approximately ¼ of the Medicare age population have Diabetes. It is also estimated that at least 10-15% of those with diabetes will contract a diabetic foot ulcer at least once in their lifetime. The diabetic footwear program was developed to assist these individuals to help prevent the formation of diabetic ulcers. Many insurance companies do offer coverage for the benefit of extra-depth shoes for qualifying patients with diabetes.
If the shoe has been certified by the appropriate agency and has passed the following requirements, then it will qualify as diabetic footwear:
One Step Ahead & HME offers Dr. Comfort, Aetrex, Drew, I-Runner, and Orthofeet brands for diabetic footwear. These shoes come in a variety of styles and colors.
There are a number of documents required by your medical doctor if you seeking insurance reimbursement for diabetic footwear. Please contact us to initiate this process for you. Please note that you will be required to have a face to face encounter with your physician for this paperwork to be completed. This paperwork can take 1-4 weeks to obtain depending on many factors. Insurance coverage will be discussed during the setup process.
Diabetic Footwear is covered for those with diabetes who have at least one of the following six documented conditions:
•History of a previous foot ulceration
•Peripheral Neuropathy with evidence of callus formation
•Poor circulation
•Presence of a current foot deformity
•History of a foot or toe amputation
•History of a pre-ulcerative callus
In most cases insurances coverage will allow one pair of diabetic shoes per 365 days. Please let us know during set up of any concerns you may have and we can discuss this with you.