Podiatric care plays a key role in overall health, especially as we age. Whether you’re dealing with foot pain, custom orthotics, or specialized foot care, costs can add up quickly. Fortunately, many private insurance plans partially or fully cover these treatments. This guide will walk you through understanding which podiatry services are typically covered and how to optimize your reimbursement.
Which podiatry treatments are typically covered by health insurance plans?
Custom Orthotics and Insurance Coverage
Unlike orthotists, only podiatrists or medical doctors can prescribe custom orthotics recognized by insurers. To ensure reimbursement, make sure to:
- Get an official prescription from a podiatrist or doctor.
- Use custom-made orthotics.
- Maintain all relevant records, such as receipts and medical orders, for submission to your health insurer.
Consultations and Treatments
Many plans cover part of the consultation fees with a podiatrist. This can include evaluations for foot pain, prevention of joint problems, and posture correction.
Specialized Care: Ingrown Toenails, Plantar Warts, Diabetic Foot Care
Treatments like nail removal, plantar wart therapy, or diabetic foot care may be partially reimbursed depending on your insurance plan.
How to confirm podiatry coverage in your insurance?
It’s important to note that insurance companies only cover services provided by a licensed podiatrist or a medical doctor. Other individuals providing foot care, if not recognized by a professional regulatory body, are unlikely to be covered by your insurer.
Where to find the information in your plan?
Check the paramedical section of your insurance contract:
- Make sure “podiatrist” is listed among covered professionals.
- Check reimbursement percentages.
- Confirm annual coverage limits.
Questions to ask your insurer
If your plan is unclear, ask:
- What is the maximum reimbursement for a podiatry consultation?”
- “Are custom orthotics covered?”
- “Are there any exclusions on podiatry services?”
Tips to maximize podiatry reimbursement
Compare insurance offers
If you’re planning regular care, choose an insurance plan with better podiatric coverage.
Stay organized
Keep all receipts, prescriptions, and claims in an easy-to-access folder.
Submit claims quickly
Some plans have strict deadlines for submitting claims.
FAQ : Answer To common questions about what insurance cover in podiatry
Is podiatry covered by RAMQ?
No. In Québec, podiatry care is mostly covered by private insurance. Some diabetic-related or medically necessary cases may be an exception.
Note: Uncovered expenses can often be claimed as eligible medical deductions on your tax return.
Can you get reimbursed for orthotics bought online?
Generally not, as most insurance policies require that orthotics be prescribed and custom-made.
What’s the difference between private and group insurance for podiatry?
Individuals buy private insurance, which varies depending on the plan. Employers typically offer group insurance, which tends to have more comprehensive benefits.
Understanding your podiatry insurance coverage is essential to get the best care while managing costs. Take time to review your policy, ask the right questions, and optimize your claims. For more foot health advice, subscribe to the PiedRéseau newsletter and explore the full range of resources available on our website.