Congress Introduces Legislation Authorizing NPs to Certify Patients’ Need for Diabetic Shoes

H.R.4870 / S.800, the bipartisan, bicameral “Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act” proposes an amendment to the Social Security Act “permitting nurse practitioners and physician assistants to satisfy the documentation requirement under the Medicare program for coverage of certain shoes for individuals with diabetes.” 

If passed, this legislation would allow NPs to certify their patients’ need for diabetic shoes, rather than requiring a physician certify the need.  

“This legislation would streamline healthcare delivery, ensuring that patients with diabetes receive the care they need when they need it — from their provider of choice,” said AANP President April Kapu, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FCCM, FAAN.  

The bill has been read in Congress and referred to the Senate Committee on Finance and the House Subcommittee on Health.