Medicare rules can feel like a maze. Your feet don’t care. Pain. Swelling. Numbness. Hot spots. You need support now.
Here’s the clear version:
- Medicare Part B can cover diabetic therapeutic shoes (HCPCS A5500) + inserts
- Coverage depends on medical eligibility + correct documentation + enrolled supplier
- CAIRS is a Medicare Certified provider—we follow the rules so your claim has the best shot
Featured Medicare A5500 shoe options (Apis, Dr, Comfort, Orthofeet)
These are examples of Medicare-eligible A5500 therapeutic shoes available through our vendor catalog. Wide range. Easy-entry options. Everyday styles.
Want help picking the right A5500 style? Do this:
- Browse diabetic footwear: https://cairs.biz/collections/diabetic-footwear
- Shop diabetic shoes: https://cairs.biz/collections/diabetic-shoes
What Medicare Actually Covers (A5500 + inserts)
Typical coverage includes:
- 1 pair of A5500 therapeutic shoes per calendar year
- Inserts (quantity depends on what your prescriber documents)
Common structure:
- Extra-depth shoes + inserts
- Custom-molded shoes + inserts
- Modifications when medically necessary
Cost basics (Traditional Medicare):
- Meet your Part B deductible (amount set by Medicare each year)
- Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount
- You pay 20% coinsurance
Who’s Eligible?
Medicare is specific. You need:
- ✅ Diabetes diagnosis
- ✅ Ongoing diabetes care with your physician
- ✅ A qualifying diabetes-related foot condition documented in your medical record
Examples of qualifying conditions:
- Neuropathy with callus formation
- Previous amputation
- Foot deformity
- Poor circulation
- Pre-ulcerative calluses
The Paperwork (Yes, It Matters)
Timing matters. Documentation matters. Details matter.
What’s typically required:
- Statement of Certifying Physician for Therapeutic Shoes (from your treating physician)
- Clinical notes supporting diabetes management + qualifying foot condition
- Supplier documentation and fitting notes (that’s us)
Medicare doesn’t accept vague language. Clear clinical specifics win.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage must offer the benefit, but plan rules vary:
- Prior authorization
- In-network restrictions
- Different cost-sharing
- Annual limits or timing differences
Action step:
- Call your plan. Ask about A5500 therapeutic shoes coverage and in-network requirements.
HSA/FSA (secondary option)
Not using Medicare? Need an extra pair outside the benefit?
Use HSA/FSA. Clean checkout. Simple. 🎉
You may need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). We can provide a template.
Next Steps (Fast + Correct)
1) Confirm you qualify (diabetes + foot condition)
2) Ask your doctor for the certifying statement
3) Choose an A5500 style from our vendor catalog
4) Book your fitting + we handle the supplier documentation
5) Submit and complete your order
Go now:
- Start with A5500 options: https://cairs.biz/collections/diabetic-footwear
- Prefer more styles: https://cairs.biz/collections/diabetic-shoes
Bottom Line
If you qualify, use the benefit. A5500 therapeutic shoes exist to prevent serious complications. That’s the whole point.
Shop A5500. Get fitted. Get covered. Get moving.
