“TAKING STEPS” IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FOR DIABETICS

Article submitted by Bruce Barton, Certified Pedorthist. For more information visit the internet at www.priorityfootwear.com or call the Bountiful office at 801 298-1764.

People from all along the Wasatch front are realizing a wonderful benefit from Medicare that supplies shoes and insoles for the diabetic foot.

Medicare has concluded that it is more cost effective for them to supply eligible victims of diabetes with a pair of properly fitted shoes and protective inserts than to deal with the high cost of wound care and complications associated with this disease. That is why Congress passed the Therapeutic Shoe Bill in 1993.

Diabetes is the most frequent cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations. Since the Therapeutic Shoe Bill has been in effect it has been instrumental in lowering the lower-limb amputation rate by 80 percent per capita.

Poor circulation and lack of feeling (neuropathy) are two conditions that lead to limb threatening problems. Other conditions like calluses, corns, hammertoes, bunions and even nail fungus can lead to infections and ultimately the possibility of amputation.

Priority Footwear is a mobile service that provides footwear and soft orthotic insoles to protect and support diabetic feet. They are trained professionals specialized in shoe fitting and educating the diabetic public. They work with seniors with diabetes in homes, Assisted Living facilities, Senior Centers, hospitals or medical offices. They evaluate and measure feet, write up all the paperwork and do all the billing.

Medicare pays 80% of the costs and supplemental insurances pay 20% in most cases. Most of the time there is no cost involved to those eligible for shoes.

Diabetics do have options and Priority Footwear is there to help.