28,555
Podiatrists
100%
Accepting patients
98%
Most common: DPM
FindClarity lists 28,555 podiatrists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is DPM (98%). 69% accept Medicare.
Podiatrists specialize in conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree through four years of podiatric medical school, followed by a three-year surgical residency. Podiatrists can prescribe medications, order imaging, perform surgery, and manage both medical and surgical conditions of the foot and ankle.
Common conditions treated include plantar fasciitis (heel pain), bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot ulcers, Achilles tendon problems, fractures, and sports injuries affecting the foot and ankle. Podiatrists also fit custom orthotics (shoe inserts) and manage toenail disorders.
Diabetic foot care is one of the most critical roles for podiatrists. Diabetes damages nerves and blood flow to the feet, making small injuries dangerous. Podiatrists perform regular diabetic foot exams and wound care that prevents amputations. Medicare covers routine foot care for patients with diabetes and other qualifying conditions.
See a podiatrist for persistent heel pain, bunion pain that limits shoe choices or activity, diabetic foot problems (numbness, ulcers, infections), ingrown toenails that keep recurring, foot or ankle fractures, plantar warts that do not respond to home treatment, flat feet causing pain, sports injuries to the foot or ankle, or any foot condition that affects your ability to walk or exercise. If you have diabetes, schedule an annual foot exam even if you have no current symptoms.
A first visit lasts 30 to 45 minutes. The podiatrist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, footwear, and activity level. They will examine your feet, check sensation and circulation (especially important for diabetic patients), and may order X-rays (often available in the office). Treatment options range from conservative measures (orthotics, stretching, injections, padding) to surgical correction depending on the condition. Many podiatrists perform minor procedures (ingrown toenail removal, wart treatment) at the first visit.
Office visit copay: $30-60 · Ingrown toenail procedure: $200-500 · Custom orthotics: $300-800 · Bunion surgery: $3,000-7,000 · Diabetic foot exam: covered under preventive
Yes. Podiatrists earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited podiatric medical school (four years) and complete a three-year surgical residency. They are licensed to diagnose, prescribe medications, perform surgery, and manage conditions of the foot and ankle. Their training is specific to the foot and lower extremity rather than the whole body.
Most insurance plans allow self-referral to a podiatrist. Medicare does not require a referral for podiatric services. Some HMO plans may require a referral from your primary care doctor. Check your specific plan. For diabetic foot care, your primary care doctor may initiate the referral to ensure coverage for routine care.
Coverage varies. Some plans cover custom orthotics with a prescription from a podiatrist, often at 50% to 80% after a deductible. Medicare covers therapeutic shoes and inserts for diabetic patients. Many plans have a limit on how often you can get new orthotics (every one to two years). Over-the-counter inserts are not covered but can be effective for mild issues.
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Most insurance plans cover podiatry visits with a specialist copay. Medicare covers podiatric services including diabetic foot exams, nail care for patients with qualifying conditions (diabetes, peripheral vascular disease), bunion surgery, and fracture treatment. Routine foot care (nail trimming, callus removal) is not covered by Medicare unless you have a qualifying medical condition. Custom orthotics coverage varies by plan. Verify your plan covers the specific service before scheduling.