Does Medicare Cover Compression and Diabetic Socks?
Did your doctor tell you that you should wear compression or diabetic socks? What is this all about?
Compression socks are often prescribed for varicose veins and leg swelling. They are also great for preventing that tired and achy feeling you experience when you're on your feet all day. Compression hosiery is also recommended after surgery if you must stay in bed for a long time.
Just like compression socks, diabetic socks are specially designed to provide comfort and protection for the special needs of those with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to circulation problems, especially in the legs. Socks that don’t dig in to the legs and impair circulation are so helpful for preventing foot ulcers and for comfort.
Since your doctor prescribed these socks and said they are important for your health, they must be covered by Medicare right?
Nope. Medicare and most medical insurance plans do not cover compression or diabetic socks. Even with a prescription from your doctor they are a non-covered service.
There is one exception. If graduated compression stockings are specifically prescribed for treatment of open venous stasis ulcers, they might be covered as they may be seen as wound dressings. But there are certain conditions to meet. Medicare will only cover the cost of gradient compression stockings that are worn below the knee and deliver compression greater than 30 mmHg and less than 50 mmHg. The coverage doesn't apply to compression socks prescribed for treatment of circulation issues, varicose veins, or to prevent ulcers.
Always contact the insurance company to confirm whether or not you have coverage before making your purchase.
Given this, why not buy compression and diabetic socks you like instead of the ones presented to you at the medical supply store or corner drug store? At Ease Living we sell socks that would be at home on the runway and that would make your doctor smile. Click here to see the collections of compression and diabetic socks you will want to wear.
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