Foot Care for Patients with Chronic Disease

Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy: Loss of Protective Sensation (LOPS)

Effective for services furnished on/after July 1, 2002, Medicare covers an evaluation (examination and treatment) of the feet no more often than every six months for individuals with a documented diagnosis of diabetic sensory neuropathy and LOPS, as long as the beneficiary has not seen a foot care specialist for some other reason in the interim.

The diagnosis of diabetic sensory neuropathy with LOPS should be established and documented prior to coverage of foot care. Other causes of peripheral neuropathy should be considered and investigated by the primary care physician prior to initiating or referring for foot care for persons with LOPS.

See the CMS Services Provided for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy with Loss of Protective Sensation (aka Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy) (70.2.1) National Coverage Determination (NCD) for more information.

 

Last Updated Oct 31 , 2022