Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes?
Yes — every calendar year, if you have diabetes plus a qualifying foot condition. Here is who qualifies, what you get, and how we make it easy.
The short answer: Medicare Part B covers therapeutic shoes and inserts for people with diabetes and diabetes-related foot problems. Each calendar year you can get one pair of extra-depth shoes (or custom shoes) plus 2–3 pairs of inserts.
Who qualifies
You have diabetes and at least one of these foot conditions:
- Partial or complete amputation of a foot
- A current or past foot ulcer
- Current or past calluses that could lead to ulcers (pre-ulcerative calluses)
- Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) with signs of calluses
- A foot deformity, such as bunions or hammertoes
- Poor circulation in your feet
What you get each year
- One pair of extra-depth shoes with 3 pairs of inserts, or
- One pair of custom-molded shoes (when a deformity can’t be fitted with depth shoes) with 2 more pairs of inserts.
- The benefit resets every January, so you can get a fresh pair each year.
We carry hundreds of styles for men and women — athletic, casual and dress — so you don’t have to give up looking good.
What you need from your doctors
- The doctor who treats your diabetes (MD or DO) must certify that you need the shoes and document your foot condition.
- A podiatrist or other qualified doctor writes the order for the shoes and inserts.
- Both usually happen during regular visits. We request the paperwork from your doctors for you.
What it costs
CGMs and diabetic shoes are covered under Medicare Part B. After you meet your yearly Part B deductible, Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount and you pay 20% coinsurance. If you have a Medigap (supplement) plan, Medicaid, or another secondary plan, it may pay some or all of that 20%. We check your coverage and tell you your exact cost before anything ships — no surprise bills.
On a Medicare Advantage plan? The same equipment is covered, but your plan sets its own costs and may need prior approval. We check that for you too.
How it works with AA Medical Supply
- Pick your style. Browse our diabetic shoes or call us for help choosing.
- We handle the paperwork. We get the certification and order from your doctors.
- We confirm your cost. You hear your exact out-of-pocket cost before anything ships.
- Shoes delivered. Your shoes and inserts arrive at your door, and we remind you when your yearly benefit renews.
Browse diabetic shoes →
Common questions
How often does Medicare pay for diabetic shoes?
Once per calendar year: one pair of extra-depth or custom shoes, plus 2 or 3 pairs of inserts depending on the shoe type. The benefit renews every January.
Do I need a prescription for diabetic shoes?
Yes. The doctor who treats your diabetes certifies you need them, and a podiatrist or other qualified doctor orders them. We coordinate with both offices for you.
Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes if I only have diabetes?
Diabetes alone is not enough. You also need a qualifying foot condition, such as neuropathy with calluses, a past ulcer, a deformity like bunions or hammertoes, poor circulation, or an amputation.
Can I choose the style?
Yes. Medicare-covered diabetic shoes come in athletic, casual and dress styles for men and women, and we carry hundreds of them.
Will I have to pay anything?
With Original Medicare you pay 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible, unless a supplement, Medicaid or another secondary plan covers it. We tell you your exact cost before anything ships.
Last reviewed September 2026. Coverage rules are set by Medicare, Medicaid and your plan, and can change — we confirm your specific coverage before anything ships. Sources: Medicare.gov: Therapeutic shoes & inserts · CMS LCD L33369 (Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes).