Does Medicare Cover Pedicures?

Maintaining good hygiene not only helps improve how we look but also can improve our overall health. One part of the body we don’t usually pay attention to is our feet, specifically the toes and toenails.

One of the best ways to fix and maintain the health and hygiene of our toes and toenails is through a pedicure. So a common question many people have is, “does Medicare cover Pedicures?” In this article, we answer the question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of a pedicure, as well as other helpful info.

The short answer is no. In most cases, Medicare will not cover the cost of pedicure. That said, there may be some situations where you can get these costs covered. Below we’ll take a closer look at this to see when you might be able to get Medicare to pay for your pedicure.

Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) does not provide coverage for a pedicure. That is because Medicare does not cover routine foot care.

However, Medicare Part B may cover toenail clipping if it is medically necessary. That means that toenail trimming may be covered by Part B if your healthcare provider orders. They can do so if it’s harmful to your health if it is not done by a podiatrist or a medical professional.

Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) may also provide coverage for nail trimming and other foot care types as long as it is considered medically necessary. Medicare Advantage plans cover everything Original Medicare cover along with some additional benefits.

Because Medicare will not provide coverage for a pedicure, you may want to know how much one will cost you.

How Much Does Pedicure Cost?

Pedicures generally cost around $25 to $30, depending on where you live. Pedicures are usually cheaper on the West coast, with an average price of $24.62. In the middle of the country, pedicures typically cost $26.23. On the East coast, a pedicure usually costs $28.51.

The Medical Benefits Of a Pedicure

Though it may seem like it is just meant for cosmetics, a pedicure also has benefits for your feet’ health and hygiene. Just like an ordinary pedicure, a medical pedicure fixes the overall appearance of your feet, including hardened skin and dirty toenails.

But a medical pedicure has more health benefits than an ordinary one. For example, during a medical pedicure, you can be diagnosed with a foot or nail health problem. And more than just getting a diagnosis, a medical pedicure may help you treat feet and toenail conditions you are diagnosed with.

A pedicure can also help keep your feet and toenails healthy. Toenails are healthier if they are maintained at the right length. Medical pedicures may also help prevent you from getting ingrown nails.

Aside from that, a medical pedicure may remove foot odor caused by bacteria and dirt, and as a result, it keeps good hygiene and health to your feet.

Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Always be sure to double check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.