Benefits @ Work = Shoes?

I need shoes.

I have traditionally had quite a difficult time when it comes to finding shoes. I have very high arches and heals/flats are usually uncomfortable. My mom suggested I look into my benefits at work to see if there might be any options.

Well, apparently there are some options!

My benefit plan states that:

“We will cover 100 per cent of reasonable and customary costs (unless specified otherwise) for the medical services listed below when ordered by a doctor."

(then there are a loooot of items listed, below are the two that apply to me)

1. for custom built orthopaedic shoes, the charge, reduced by the cost ($50) of ordinary shoes, and orthopaedic modifications to shoes, provided such shoes and modifications are recommended and approved by a licensed physician or by a licensed podiatrist.
2. orthotics (custom made inserts or arch supports) - all such claims will require to be accompanied by a medical statement outlining the reasons for supporting the expenses. Reimbursement will also be limited to $300 for all such claims, per calendar year.

I can also receive reimbursement of up to $40 (max 20 visits) to a podiatrist.

So with all of that in mind, I’m going to see if my doctor (so I can meet the ordered by a dr. requirement) will recommend a podiatrist or orthopaedic doctor to see if I could get some custom made inserts/ach supports.

That would be pretty cool. Then, I wouldn’t have to buy new shoes, I could wear the ones I have, comfortably.