Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act
Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act
Plain Language Summary
# Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act (HR 1616) – Plain Language Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would expand who can authorize Medicare coverage for special diabetic shoes. Currently, only physicians can provide the required documentation for Medicare to pay for these specialized shoes. The bill would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to do the same.
Diabetic shoes are specially designed footwear that help prevent foot injuries and complications in people with diabetes. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects people with diabetes who rely on Medicare (generally seniors and some disabled individuals) and healthcare providers treating them. It could make it easier and faster for diabetic patients to obtain necessary shoe coverage, since nurse practitioners and physician assistants are often more readily available than physicians in some areas. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it's under review and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Darin LaHood (R-IL) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act This bill allows a nurse practitioner or physician assistant to fulfill documentation requirements for coverage, under Medicare, of special shoes for diabetic individuals. Under current law, such requirements may be satisfied only by a physician.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.