What AARP offers for orthotics and shoe inserts

AARP does not directly discount orthotics or custom shoe inserts through a national program. However, AARP members can access discounts on some over-the-counter orthotic products through AARP's pharmacy and health services partners, and AARP membership may lower your costs at certain retailers that sell foot care items.

The discounts available depend on which AARP partner you use and what type of orthotic product you need. Custom orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist or orthopedist are typically covered by Medicare or private insurance rather than AARP programs, so your insurance plan is usually your first place to look for cost help.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP members receive discounts on some over-the-counter orthotic products through pharmacy partners and select retailers, but the discount amount varies by product and location.
  • Custom orthotics prescribed by a doctor are usually covered by Medicare Part B or private insurance, not by AARP discount programs.
  • You can check your AARP membership card or log into your AARP account to see current orthotic discounts available in your area.
  • Drugstore chains like CVS and Walgreens offer AARP member discounts on foot care products, though not all orthotic items are included.
  • If you have Medicare, your coverage for custom orthotics depends on the reason you need them and whether your doctor orders them as medically necessary.

Over-the-counter orthotics and AARP discounts

AARP members can save on mass-produced orthotic inserts sold at drugstores and online retailers. These are the ready-made or semi-custom inserts you buy off the shelf—gel inserts, arch supports, heel cups, and cushioned insoles. The discount percentage varies, but AARP negotiates rates with major pharmacy chains including CVS, Walgreens, and some supermarket pharmacies.

To find out what discount applies to a specific product, check the AARP website's pharmacy discount section or call the retailer directly and mention your AARP membership number. Some retailers require you to show your AARP card at checkout, while others explore the discount automatically if you provide your membership number online or by phone.

Over-the-counter orthotics are not covered by Medicare, so AARP discounts are often the only price reduction available for these items unless your private insurance covers them (which is rare).

Custom orthotics and insurance coverage

If your doctor prescribes custom orthotics because of a medical condition—such as diabetes, arthritis, flat feet, or problems from an injury—Medicare Part B may cover part of the cost. Medicare covers custom-made orthotics when a podiatrist or orthopedist orders them as medically necessary and the provider is enrolled in Medicare.

Medicare typically covers 80 percent of the approved amount after you meet your Part B deductible. You pay the remaining 20 percent, unless you have a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that covers additional costs. AARP does not replace this coverage; instead, your Medicare plan is what pays.

If you have private insurance through a former employer or the marketplace, check your plan's coverage for orthotics. Some plans cover them fully, some cover a percentage, and some do not cover them at all. Your insurance company can tell you what your out-of-pocket cost will be before you order.

Where to find AARP orthotic discounts

Log into your AARP account online and search for "orthotics" or "foot care" in the discount finder tool. This shows you which retailers near you offer AARP member discounts and what the discount is. You can also call AARP member services at the number on your membership card to ask about current orthotic discounts in your area.

Major retailers that often participate in AARP discount programs include CVS, Walgreens, Amazon (for AARP members), and some regional drugstore chains. Specialty shoe stores and podiatry offices may also offer AARP discounts, though this varies by location and business.

Some AARP members also receive discounts through their employer retiree benefits or through supplemental insurance plans they purchased alongside AARP membership. Check any materials you received when you joined to see if additional discounts explore to you.

What to ask your doctor about orthotics

If you think you need orthotics, start by seeing your primary care doctor, a podiatrist, or an orthopedist. Tell them about your foot pain, how long you have had it, and what makes it worse. They can examine your feet and determine whether over-the-counter inserts might help or whether you need a custom prescription.

If your doctor prescribes custom orthotics, ask them to write down the specific type and materials needed. Then ask your insurance company (or Medicare) whether the prescription is covered and what your cost will be. This prevents surprises when you get the bill.

Ask your doctor whether you should try an over-the-counter orthotic first, since these are much cheaper and work for some people. If an off-the-shelf insert does not help after four to six weeks, that is a good time to discuss custom orthotics with your doctor.

When to seek care for foot pain

See a doctor about foot pain if it lasts more than two weeks, gets worse over time, or makes it hard to walk or stand. Also seek care if you have diabetes and develop any foot pain, numbness, or sores, since foot problems in diabetes can become serious quickly.

If you have sudden severe pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in your foot, or if you cannot put weight on it, call your doctor or go to urgent care the same day. These can be signs of infection, fracture, or other conditions that need prompt attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AARP cover the full cost of orthotics?

No. AARP discounts reduce the price of over-the-counter orthotics, but you still pay out of pocket. Custom orthotics prescribed by a doctor may be covered by Medicare or private insurance, not by AARP itself. AARP membership is a discount program, not an insurance plan.

Can I use my AARP discount and my Medicare coverage together?

If Medicare covers your custom orthotics, you use your Medicare coverage, not an AARP discount. Medicare and AARP discounts serve different purposes—Medicare is insurance, and AARP discounts explore to items Medicare does not cover or to reduce your out-of-pocket costs on covered items.

What if my podiatrist does not accept AARP discounts?

Ask your podiatrist whether they offer any discounts to AARP members or whether they accept Medicare. If they do not, you can ask for an itemized bill and submit it to your insurance. You can also get a second opinion from another podiatrist who may participate in discount programs.

Are gel inserts and arch supports covered by Medicare?

Over-the-counter gel inserts and arch supports are not covered by Medicare. Only custom-made orthotics prescribed by a doctor for a medical reason are may be able to access for Medicare coverage. Over-the-counter products are where AARP discounts usually explore.

How do I know if my insurance covers custom orthotics?

Call your insurance company's customer service number on the back of your card and ask whether custom orthotics are covered and what your out-of-pocket cost will be. Have your doctor's name and the type of orthotic ready when you call. Ask whether you need prior approval before ordering.