The Short Answer: No, But Insurance Usually Helps
OHIP does not cover chiropody services provided in private community clinics like Foot Forward Clinic. Chiropody in Ontario operates outside of OHIP, similar to dentistry, physiotherapy in private clinics, and optometry for adults.
The good news: most extended health benefit plans cover chiropody. If you have workplace benefits through providers like Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, or Blue Cross, you very likely have an annual allowance for chiropody or podiatry services — often between $300 and $1,000 per year, depending on your plan.
What Extended Health Plans Typically Cover
Coverage varies by plan, but chiropody-related benefits commonly include:
- Chiropody/podiatry visits — assessments and treatments such as medical nail care, corn and callus removal, wart treatment, and diabetic foot care
- Custom orthotics — many plans have a separate orthotics benefit (often $300–$500 every 1–2 years) that requires a prescription and a biomechanical assessment. Our chiropodists provide both. Learn more about custom orthotics
- Orthopaedic footwear — some plans include coverage for prescribed footwear
Check your benefits booklet or call your insurer and ask specifically about "chiropody" or "podiatry" coverage — the two terms are usually grouped together in benefit plans.
Direct Billing at Foot Forward Clinic
To make things easier, Foot Forward Clinic offers direct billing to many major insurance providers. That means we submit the claim on your behalf at the time of your visit, and you only pay any remaining balance — no paperwork, no waiting for reimbursement.
If your plan does not allow direct billing, we provide an official receipt you can submit for reimbursement. Our receipts include all the details insurers require, including the treating chiropodist's registration information.
Have questions about your specific coverage? Contact us before your visit and we will help you verify your benefits.
Are There Any Publicly Funded Foot Care Options?
Some limited publicly funded foot care exists in Ontario — for example, chiropody services delivered through certain Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Family Health Teams for eligible patients. However, these programs have restricted eligibility, limited capacity, and often long wait times.
For patients with diabetes, regular preventative foot care is strongly recommended by Diabetes Canada — and while OHIP does not fund routine chiropody, many patients find that their extended benefits, combined with the prevention of serious complications, consider professional foot care a worthwhile investment in their long-term health. Read our complete guide to diabetic foot care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor's referral to see a chiropodist? No — you can book directly. However, some insurance plans require a physician's referral for reimbursement, so check your policy.
How much does a chiropody appointment cost without insurance? Fees vary by service. Contact the clinic for current pricing — we are always transparent about costs before treatment.
Can I use my Health Care Spending Account (HCSA)? Yes. Chiropody is an eligible medical expense for HCSAs and is also an eligible medical expense for the federal Medical Expense Tax Credit.
Ready to book? Book online or call (647) 689-7533. We serve Vaughan, Maple, Richmond Hill, and surrounding communities.