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HR 1616

Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act

119th Congress Introduced by Alma Adams and 51 co-sponsors

Summary of H.R. 1616: Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act OverviewThe Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act (H.R. 1616) is a bill introduced in the House of Representatives on

Introduced in House
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Bill Summary · HR 1616

Summary of H.R. 1616: Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act

Overview

The Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act (H.R. 1616) is a bill introduced in the House of Representatives on February 26, 2025. The bill aims to improve access to therapeutic shoes and inserts for individuals with diabetes covered under Medicare.

Key Provisions

  • Requires Medicare to cover the full cost of therapeutic shoes and inserts for diabetic beneficiaries, eliminating the current 20% coinsurance payment.
  • Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish quality standards for therapeutic shoes and inserts covered by Medicare.
  • Streamlines the process for diabetic beneficiaries to receive necessary footwear by allowing a wider range of qualified providers, including podiatrists, pedorthists, and orthotists, to prescribe and fit the shoes.

Impact and Benefits

  • Reduces financial barriers for diabetic Medicare beneficiaries to obtain therapeutic footwear, which is critical for preventing foot ulcers and other complications.
  • Ensures Medicare beneficiaries have access to high-quality, properly fitted therapeutic shoes and inserts.
  • Expands the pool of qualified providers able to prescribe and fit diabetic footwear, improving convenience and timeliness of access.

Companion Legislation

The Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act has a companion bill in the Senate, S. 1805, which was also introduced in February 2025.

Conclusion

This legislation aims to improve Medicare coverage and access to therapeutic footwear for diabetic beneficiaries, addressing a critical health need and reducing the risk of costly diabetic foot complications. By eliminating cost-sharing, setting quality standards, and expanding provider options, the bill seeks to make diabetic shoes and inserts more affordable and accessible for the Medicare population.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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