Sometimes it’s complicated trying to figure out exactly what is covered and not covered by the Provincial Health system in Alberta. Especially when it comes to podiatry.
Will the podiatrist be covered by Alberta Health Care?
Yes, Alberta Health Care will cover services provided by a podiatric surgeon in an Alberta hospital or non-hospital surgical facility under contract with Alberta Health Services.
To receive these services, you are required to have a referral from a Doctor.
Other podiatry services may only be partially covered. If the podiatry service is NOT in an Alberta hospital or non-hospital surgical facility under contract with Alberta Health Services, then the following will apply:
- partial coverage for some podiatry services under the basic podiatry program, to a maximum of $250 per benefit year (July 1 to June 30)
- podiatrists can charge additional fees for these services
For example, bunion surgery is covered by Alberta Health Care if the surgery is necessary and conducted in a hospital setting.
For a full list of covered podiatry services and benefits, visit this Alberta.ca link here.
In Summary
- The podiatrist is covered by Alberta Health Care if it is deemed medically necessary and conducted in a provincial facility, such as a hospital.
- Other circumstances may only be partially covered, or not covered at all.
