Peoria Standard

Congressman Darin LaHood, representing Illinois' 16th district, has introduced the Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act in collaboration with Congresswoman Nanette Barragán of California's 44th district. The proposed legislation aims to enable physician assistants and nurse practitioners to fulfill requirements for providing therapeutic shoes to individuals with diabetes.

Rep. LaHood emphasized the importance of quality care for diabetic patients, noting that "over one million Illinoisians currently live with diabetes." He stated, "We cannot allow these individuals to experience a gap in care because of burdensome regulations."

Rep. Barragán highlighted the widespread impact of diabetes on Americans and the barriers faced by Medicare patients in accessing necessary treatments. She expressed her support for the bill, saying it "creates a more efficient pathway for diabetic foot care" and helps prevent serious health complications such as lower-limb amputations.

The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) expressed gratitude towards Reps. LaHood and Barragán for their commitment to healthcare improvement through this legislation. AAPA President Jason Prevelige stated that the bill would address an "undue barrier to care" by allowing physician associates/assistants to order diabetic shoes for their patients.

Similarly, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) praised the bipartisan effort. AANP President Stephen A. Ferrara noted that the legislation would enhance system efficiency and reduce administrative burdens for patients who rely on nurse practitioners for their care.

Currently, only physicians can prescribe therapeutic shoes under Medicare, despite many diabetic patients being primarily cared for by physician assistants or nurse practitioners. The Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act seeks to change this by authorizing these healthcare professionals to fulfill documentation requirements necessary for coverage.